Indiana DNR offers workshops for beginning waterfowlers

A good waterfowl dog adds to hunting pleasure. This dog is bringing in a decoy.

From all indications, this fall and winter’s waterfowl hunting seasons should be among the best in recent years. There should be plenty of birds to hunt.

Waterfowl hunters are truly passionate about their sport. Many brave cold early morning and the wetter the better, but they wouldn’t miss a morning of calling in ducks or geese.

Learning how to waterfowl hunt, including what equipment is needed and how to identify birds, can be intimidating for new hunters, so the Indiana Department of Natural Resources will offer three free workshops for novices and beginners at three different sites in August.

Similar material will be covered at each, so there is no need to attend more than one. Presentation topics will include waterfowl hunting regulations, goose and duck identification, equipment and techniques. There also will be a show-and-tell segment.

  Waterfowl hunting equipment, including blinds, waders, clothing, decoys and gadgets will be displayed and discussed. DNR Law Enforcement and Fish & Wildlife personnel will be available to answer questions. Lunch will be provided.

  All ages are welcome. Advance registration is required. Parents who already hunt waterfowl are welcome to bring children, but the material is tailored for beginners. Experienced waterfowl hunters are unlikely to learn much, according to a DNR official.

  Each workshop will occur at least partially outdoors and take place rain or shine. Participants should consider bringing a lawn chair and a jacket or raincoat.

  One workshop will be at Glenns Valley Conservation Club (Martinsville) on Saturday, Aug. 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and cover both duck and goose hunting. The address is 7115 Waverly Road, 46151. For more information, call Josh Griffin at (812) 526-8475. To register, call (765) 349-2060 or email sbarnett@morgancounty.IN.gov .

  Also on Aug. 10, a workshop focusing on Canada goose hunting will take place at Kankakee Fish & Wildlife Area in North Judson, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.   

The third will be on Saturday, Aug. 24, at Sugar Ridge Fish & Wildlife Area in Winslow in Pike County, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This workshop will focus on Canada goose hunting. The address is 2310 E State Road 364, 47598. For more information call Phelps at (812) 334-1137. To register, call(812) 789-2724.

The workshops will be a good opportunity for people who may be interested in waterfowl hunting, to become aquatinted with the sport in an environment planned for newcomers.