Are Floating Blinds Effective for Great Lakes Duck Hunting?

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Choosing the Right Location When selecting a location for a floating blind on the Great Lakes, it’s essential to consider water depth, current, and wind direction. Aim for areas with a minimum depth of 10-15 feet, as this will allow the blind to remain stable and undetectable to birds. In addition, look for areas with a mix of structural features such as weed beds, drop-offs, and sunken logs, as these will attract diving ducks and provide excellent concealment for the blind.
Open Water Tactics Diving ducks are highly mobile and can be extremely challenging to hunt in open water. To increase your chances of success, use a combination of calling and decoy placement to lure birds into shooting range. Start by placing two to three decoys in a small cluster, then slowly add more decoys to create a larger spread. Use a consistent calling sequence, such as the “lost duck” call, to attract birds from a distance. When birds approach, use a “freeze” technique, where all hunters in the blind remain completely still, to increase the chances of a successful shot.
Weather Considerations Weather plays a significant role in Great Lakes duck hunting, and it’s essential to consider the conditions when choosing a location for a floating blind. In windy conditions, look for areas with a windbreak, such as a small island or a group of trees. In calm conditions, focus on areas with a mix of sun and shade, as this will help to create a thermal updraft that can attract birds. Additionally, be prepared to adjust your calling and decoy placement to match the specific weather conditions. For example, in windy conditions, use a more aggressive calling sequence to compensate for the reduced visibility.