Does hunting near food sources increase my chances?

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Understanding Timber Mallard Behavior Timber mallards in Arkansas are highly attracted to areas with an abundance of food, particularly during times of scarcity. To increase your chances of success, focus on locating prime feeding areas such as agricultural fields, wetlands, and timber stands. For example, fields with corn, soybeans, and wheat are particularly attractive to timber mallards, as these crops provide an ideal food source. In Arkansas, the peak feeding season for timber mallards typically occurs during the winter months, with the best hunting typically occurring in the late morning and early afternoon.
Hunting Techniques for Timber Mallards To successfully hunt timber mallards near food sources, use a combination of calling and decoy placement. Use a mallard call to mimic the sounds of other mallards, and place decoys strategically to appear as a group of birds feeding on the ground. It’s essential to use a good quality decoy spread with a mix of mallard drakes and hens to create a convincing illusion. When setting up, consider the terrain and place your setup near a water source, such as a lake, river, or wetland, to increase the likelihood of attracting timber mallards. In Arkansas, it’s not uncommon to see timber mallards flying in to feed in the morning and afternoon, making these times prime for hunting.
Decoy Placement and Calling Strategy When placing decoys, aim to create a natural-looking spread that appears to be feeding on the ground. Use at least 6-8 decoys, with a mix of drakes and hens, to create a convincing illusion. When calling, use a combination of quacks and whistles to mimic the sounds of other mallards. Start with a series of soft quacks to get the attention of the birds, and then transition to a louder, more insistent call to keep them interested. In Arkansas, the most effective calling strategy for timber mallards typically involves using a combination of calls to create a sense of urgency and excitement, such as “quack-quack-quack, wh-wh-wh, quack-quack-quack”.