Quick Answer
When hunting mallards in Arkansas timber, call regularly to keep birds in the area engaged and focused on your location. Use the right calls to mimic the sounds of a mallard hen and her brood. This will increase your chances of enticing a male mallard into shooting range.
Choosing the Right Calls
When hunting mallards in flooded timber, it’s essential to use calls that can be heard clearly over the water. I prefer using a call with a high-pitched, nasal tone, such as the classic “quack” or “wheep” of a hen. This type of call is most effective when used in conjunction with a decoy spread featuring 6-8 female mallards. For a more aggressive setup, add a few drake decoys to the mix.
Call Sequence and Timing
When calling mallards in timber, it’s crucial to establish a consistent call sequence and timing. Start by calling every 30 seconds to 1 minute, then gradually increase the frequency to every 15-20 seconds. This will keep the birds engaged and increase the likelihood of a drake responding to your calls. Pay attention to the surrounding environment and adjust your call sequence accordingly. For example, if you’re near a known feeding area or a roosting spot, you may need to call more frequently to keep the birds focused on your location.
Wood Duck Season Considerations
When hunting mallards in Arkansas timber during wood duck season, be aware that wood ducks can be present in the same areas. Wood ducks are more wary of calls than mallards, so it’s essential to use a more subtle call sequence and avoid over-calling. Instead, focus on using a few well-placed calls to entice a wood duck or mallard into shooting range. Additionally, be prepared to switch to a different call type if you’re experiencing a lot of wood duck activity in the area.
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