When the holidays roll around at the end of the year, people start craving seasonal dishes made with game birds such as turkey and pheasant. In some households, however, having a goose on the table at Christmas is a family tradition, which makes this the perfect time to head to Minnesota to bag some of these birds.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reports that the Canadian goose population has become extremely large over the years. Goose season in this state begins in early September and runs through the end of December, giving you plenty of opportunities to go after a big honker for Christmas dinner.
Even with lots of available targets, it may be difficult for a novice hunter to bag their limit of two geese per day. Although the Canadian goose is a pretty big bird, the DNR says that you have to be a pretty decent shot to bring one down. Their experts recommend taking at least one seminar on how to effectively hit the bird's vital zone. Doing some practice shooting with a 10- or 12-gauge shotgun before you head out also is a good idea.
Like Carl, the greenskeeper who hunted an elusive gopher in the 1980's comedy "Caddyshack," you really have to understand the Canadian goose in order to find their nesting grounds. Once again, Minnesota's DNR has some good recommendations about this, including buying a book or video about geese and their habits.
The proper gear also can make the difference between success and failure in Minnesota. This may be the year to invest in some good camouflage, especially a pair of Bogs Blaze 1000 Mossy Oak Rubber Boots. With these on your feet, you can track an elusive goose in some of the most challenging hunting conditions.
Since farmers consider the Canadian goose to be a real threat to their crops, you may want to check with local landowners to see if you can hunt on their property. You will be doing them a favor and could possibly bring home a couple of honkers for the holiday season.
Sources:
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/hunting/tips/goose.html
http://www.goosegrinders.com/late-season-goose.html
