Those who have not yet hunted waterfowl this fall shouldn't fear that the ducks have passed them by, according to Steve Cordts, waterfowl specialist for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The season's best waterfowl hunting could be on its way, with conditions becoming "ducky" as cooler, wetter weather moves in.
Cordts noted that while clear skies and warm weather have kept some local ducks around, they also have kept migrant ducks farther to the north than usual.
As for state hotspots, Thief Lake Wildlife Management Area is always a good bet later in October, especially for diving ducks. Areas in and around Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge near Detroit Lakes can be good in October, especially for ring-necked ducks. Otter Tail County is always a good bet for diving ducks.
