Ready for some top-notch waterfowl action on the big lake? Captain Kenny Lewis knows Lake Erie like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on some serious duck hunting. This ain't your average puddle jump - we're talking open water hunting from specially rigged boats that'll get you right where the birds want to be. Whether you're a seasoned wing-shooter or just getting your feet wet, Captain Kenny's got the know-how to make your day on the water one for the books.
Picture this: You're cutting through the chop of Lake Erie at dawn, decoys rattling in the boat as you head to Captain Kenny's honey hole. The air's crisp, there's a hint of snow in the wind, and you can already see strings of ducks working the skyline. We'll set up in one of our duck boats - 32, 28, or 25-footers that are perfect for open water hunting. These rigs are stable, roomy, and set up just right for waterfowling. You'll have plenty of space to hunker down, stay dry, and be ready when the birds start pouring in. We're targeting a mixed bag of divers and puddle ducks, so be ready for fast action and some challenging shots. Oh, and don't worry about going hungry - we'll fuel up with a hot breakfast before we hit the water.
Alright, here's the nitty-gritty on how we hunt Lake Erie ducks. We'll motor out to one of Captain Kenny's proven spots and drop anchor. Then it's time to set the spread. We're talking long lines of decoys - sometimes up to 200 blocks - to really pull those birds in close. The key here is matching what the ducks are used to seeing. Some days that means tight groups of diving ducks, other days we might string out some mallard and pintail decoys. Once we're set up, it's all about staying low and being ready. These lake ducks come in hot and fast, so quick mounting and smooth swings are crucial. Don't be surprised if you're taking passing shots at birds rocketing by at 40 mph - it's all part of the Lake Erie duck hunting experience!
Let me tell you, there's something special about hunting the big water of Lake Erie. It's not just about the number of birds (though we see plenty) - it's the whole package. You've got the wide-open feel of the lake, the challenge of picking out incoming flights against the grey sky, and the rush when a flock of bluebills comes screaming into the decoys. Our hunters keep coming back year after year because this is real deal waterfowling. It's not always easy, but man, when it's on, there's nothing like it. Plus, Captain Kenny's a wealth of knowledge. He'll have you laughing with hunting stories one minute and giving you tips on how to improve your shooting the next.
Alright, let's talk birds. Lake Erie is a magnet for all sorts of ducks, and each one brings its own brand of excitement to the hunt. Here's what you might see on any given day:
Redheads: These diving ducks are a Lake Erie staple. They're fast flyers and often come in big groups, giving you a chance at some exciting volley fire. Redheads are chunky birds, weighing up to 3 pounds, and they make for some mighty fine eating.
Widgeon: Also known as "baldpates" for their white foreheads, these ducks are sneaky. They'll often try to sneak into your spread without you noticing. Keep an eye out for their distinctive whistling call.
Scaup: Both Greater and Lesser Scaup (bluebills) call Lake Erie home. These birds are speed demons, often buzzing the decoys at what seems like Mach 2. Getting a bead on a flock of incoming bluebills is a true test of a hunter's skills.
Canvasback: The "King of Ducks" is a prize on any hunt. These birds are big, fast, and notoriously difficult to bring down. Seeing a flock of cans working into your spread is a sight you won't soon forget.
Goldeneye: These hardy ducks are late-season favorites. They're small but tough, and they fly like rockets. Goldeneyes love to ride the waves, so we often see them on windy days when other ducks are hunkered down.
Bufflehead: Don't let their small size fool you - these little ducks are a blast to hunt. They're agile flyers and often come in low over the water, giving you some challenging shooting.
Common and Red-Breasted Merganser: While not everyone's favorite for the table, these "sawbills" are abundant on Lake Erie and can provide some great hunting when other ducks are scarce. They're long-bodied birds that often fly in strings, offering multiple shot opportunities.
Look, if you're itching for some serious duck hunting action, Captain Kenny's Lake Erie trips are where it's at. We're talking world-class waterfowling in one of the best duck habitats around. Whether you're looking to scratch that hunting itch or want to introduce some buddies or family to the sport, this is the ticket. Remember to bring your own gun, ammo, and make sure all your licenses and stamps are in order. We'll take care of the rest. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak migration, so don't wait. Give Captain Kenny a call and lock in your dates. Trust me, once you experience Lake Erie duck hunting, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the water!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 350