By Wade Bourne

Why would any sane person want to try waterfowl hunting? The hours are abominable. A duck hunter's day starts long before dawn and sometimes runs until sundown. Conditions are frequently bone chilling and soppy. A misstep while wading can lead to an unexpected bath. Wet dogs shake off on you. Mud gets under your fingernails. How miserable!

On the other hand, how could anyone not become captivated by waterfowl hunting? The sunrises are spectacular, and the scenery, wild and beautiful. A morning hunt shared with a family member or friend is quality time. Watching ducks and geese is spellbinding. The shooting is challenging. And, oh yes, wet dogs shake off on you, and mud gets under your fingernails. How exhilarating!

So, what is duck hunting: a dreadful undertaking or an incredible experience? A newcomer's perspective is usually determined by his or her initial encounter with the sport. If a first waterfowl hunt is wretched, chances are it will also be a newcomer's last. But if it is intriguing, comfortable, and fun, then a new waterfowler will likely be added to our ranks.

Why is this important? Two reasons. First, many veteran waterfowl hunters obviously wish to share their passion for the sport with their children, spouses, and friends. And second, recruiting new waterfowlers is critically important for passing on the conservation ethic and building the support base to protect the resource. Duck and goose hunters need new duck and goose hunters to keep their traditions alive and to ensure that bird populations and wetlands remain plentiful and healthy.

Here are some strategies for conducting first-time hunts for beginning waterfowlers, especially kids and women, two groups that comprise large pools of potential recruits. Above all else, veteran hunters should host newcomers with sensitivity to their needs and expectations. If they receive a proper introduction to the sport, first-timers will likely return for second and third hunts, and these initial experiences could lead to a lifetime of enthusiasm for waterfowl and their pursuit.