GAME BIRD HUNTER’S CHECKLIST:
GET YOUR MUST HAVES:
• A game bird hunting licence
• Regulations booklet (that applies to your region)
• ‘Non-toxic’ ammunition
GET PERMISSION:
• Confirm access with landowners (say ‘thank you!)
• Get permits to hunt on Fish & Game, DOC and forestry lands
SORT OUT THE MAIMAI
• Claim your hunting spot with the tag that comes with your licence
• Fix any leaks, rotten boards, seating
• Finish camouflaging maimai with camo net or vegetation Find tips on building a maimai or camouflaging on fishandgame.org.nz
• Make sure vegetation isn’t blocking your firing zone or where the ducks will land
• Make sure your access path is cleared and safe to use
CHECK YOUR GEAR
• Clean & rig decoys – get a few new ones if needed
• Ensure your shotgun is in tip-top condition
• Make sure your shotgun magazine complies with the rules.
• Check and double-check that you don’t have any lead shot ammunition in your duck hunting bag
• Make sure your boots and waders are still waterproof
• If you are using a kayak or rowboat, ensure it’s shipshape
• If you are hunting on open water, check your lifejackets
• Continue your dog’s fitness regime, check vaccinations & worming
BE SAFE!
• Follow the advice of the Mountain Safety Council, experts in the safe handling of firearms.
PRACTICE
• Practice your shooting – organise a clay bird session with your mates before the season starts
• Pattern your shotgun – get to know the ammunition and chokes you are using
• Practice your calling – make sure you know what you are doing with your duck call. For tips from NZ duck calling champ Hunter Morrow. Practice with your dog – reinforce the basic commands and have a refresher on retrieving. Remember to keep your dog on a leash when moving through farm stock, or meeting up with other people and their dogs.
Do’s:
• Carry hunting and firearms licence at all times
• Be safe with firearms and on the water - know the seven rules for safe firearm handling
• Be an ambassador for hunters - hunt ethically & responsibly
• Clean your game bird harvest quickly to ensure the best quality meat for your table
• Bury waste after cleaning your birds
• Follow the rules
Don’ts:
• Don’t drink & hunt
• Don’t leave rubbish at your stand
• Don’t be unethical – respect your quarry and the hunting regulations
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