Spring Snow Goose Hunt 03-01-2023 through 03-12-2023
The span from March 1st, 2023, to March 12th, 2023, marked the final stretch of the spring snow goose hunting season. However, these days were far from predictable, with fluctuating weather patterns and unusual wind shifts. In this retrospective, we'll recap the challenges and triumphs of this rollercoaster hunting season.
March 1st - March 5th: A Promising Start:
The early days of March held promise for snow goose hunters. Decent temperatures and favorable winds contributed to some successful hunts. Masses of snow geese staged on the refuge, making our hunting areas prime feeding grounds. These days brought fruitful hunts, and it seemed like the season was on a high note.
March 6th - March 9th: The Winter Feel Returns:
As we moved further into March, a shift in the weather and migration patterns altered the game. Colder temperatures began to settle in, and the snow goose dynamics changed. Fewer snow geese were coming through and staging on the refuge. Instead, the majority of adult birds and the massive flocks of snow geese migrated northward into Nebraska, Iowa, and Southern South Dakota.
This northward movement created a significant gap between the younger birds that remained south of our area and the adults that had already left. The hunting conditions became challenging, with colder temperatures, occasional snow, and rain. Despite these setbacks, we managed to salvage some decent hunts during this period.
March 10th - March 12th: Wrapping It Up:
The final days of the hunting season, from March 10th to March 12th, were a mix of success and surprises. We hosted our last group of hunters for the year, and they experienced pretty good success. One remarkable highlight during this time was the capture of a GPS tracker collar on a snow goose, shedding light on the migration patterns of these majestic birds.
However, as the season drew to a close, we were forced to make some adjustments. The lack of geese in our area, coupled with persistent snowfall in South Dakota, led us to reschedule the remaining hunts for the next season. It was an unusual way to conclude the spring snow goose hunting season, with uncertainty and challenges, but our team remained resilient and optimistic for the seasons to come.
Conclusion:
The period from March 1st to March 12th, 2023, was a rollercoaster ride for spring snow goose hunters. With fluctuating weather conditions, shifting migration patterns, and unexpected surprises, it was a season filled with ups and downs. While we faced challenges, we also celebrated successes and learned from every experience in the field. As we look ahead to future seasons, we remain committed to the pursuit of snow geese and the ever-evolving adventure it offers.