This year in 2008 marks a first for goose hunting in North Dakota – it’s starting VERY early.  To my knowledge, we get to start the season earlier than any state in the lower 48 and that date is this Friday, August 15th.  Since the talk of this new season started there has been a lot of negative criticism, and I can understand some of those reasons (although I don’t necessarily agree with most of them).  It’s too hot, too many bugs, the birds won’t be flying, there isn’t any crops down, people will be water swatting, etc.  I think these complaints come from a lack of knowledge as to what’s going on this time of year since scouting isn’t typically on people’s minds in mid-August.

Well I got some news for all you non-believers; this is going to be a killer opener!  Why?  Because of some of those complaints that I’m reading about.  In my scouting thus far, I’d actually say things are lining up for a better opener than the traditional September season.  For most areas, the birds are flying already.  So the idea that there won’t be any field hunting to be had is a pure farce – there will be.  Also, with the lack of crops down in most area, finding that harvested field with birds is a gold mine.  Where else are they going to feed?  And with the heavy rains the state got on Monday, farmers haven’t had too many chances to get in the fields this week.  So the supply and demand of fields available means better chances for the hunter.

I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical about the season myself but one night of scouting and I knew there was no need for any skepticism.  The reality is just like ANY waterfowler; those who put in their time will reap the results.  And with gas still holding between the $3.59-$3.89 range – it’s not going to be a cheap opener either.  I’ve already logged 400 miles scouting and I’ve still got a lot to do.

So as I write this my trailer is already packed and my truck is gassed up.  All I’m waiting for now is the alarm clock tomorrow morning and I’m out the door for a final day of scouting for 3 days of hunting.  I can only say that I’m extremely pumped!  I’ve got Deet for the mosquitoes and sunblock for the heat so all I have to worry about now is the birds.

Good luck to everyone hunting this fine opener weekend.