today was my first day going in and out on my kayak. hunted a swamp island that was about a .6mi paddle from the access road. I didn't hunt until last light, as I didn't want my first paddle out to be in the dark, but I would confidently do so next time.
while the kayak did well in the swamp, for this particularly area, I've decided waders would be the better tool. the water was probably never more than mid-thigh deep (4' ?), and the spots of alligator grass always needed more of push-pole to maneuver over. I also learned that I have to be extra diligent to not wack the sides with the paddle - the kayak is basically a giant hollow amplifier and if struck, it sounds like a giant drum. still, i'm pleased and excited to use it for more access in upcoming post-season scouting.
I scouted in and settled in this thick area that sat at a pinch on the swamp island. didn't scout a whole lot and didn't see much outstanding sign, but I liked this cover. I grunted and heard a deer in some water 10min later, and then 25min after my initial grunt I heard a short snort downwind of me. we all know that drill.
on my drive home I saw about 15 deer on the side of the interstate. eating grass. I called my buddy who was out in this swamp that morning and I told him: we need to hunt over grass. they barely have anything else to eat out here anymore...
while the kayak did well in the swamp, for this particularly area, I've decided waders would be the better tool. the water was probably never more than mid-thigh deep (4' ?), and the spots of alligator grass always needed more of push-pole to maneuver over. I also learned that I have to be extra diligent to not wack the sides with the paddle - the kayak is basically a giant hollow amplifier and if struck, it sounds like a giant drum. still, i'm pleased and excited to use it for more access in upcoming post-season scouting.
I scouted in and settled in this thick area that sat at a pinch on the swamp island. didn't scout a whole lot and didn't see much outstanding sign, but I liked this cover. I grunted and heard a deer in some water 10min later, and then 25min after my initial grunt I heard a short snort downwind of me. we all know that drill.
on my drive home I saw about 15 deer on the side of the interstate. eating grass. I called my buddy who was out in this swamp that morning and I told him: we need to hunt over grass. they barely have anything else to eat out here anymore...