If you’ve never been snow goose hunting in Missouri before, then you’re in for a real treat. Not only does Missouri offer waterfowl hunters a unique and highly enriching experience, but snow geese in particular bring a unique challenge to the table. Coming home from a successful Missouri snow goose hunt doesn’t feel like coming home from your average, everyday hunting trip. You come home feeling like you really accomplished something.
However, it’s important to understand that succeeding at snow goose hunting is all about being prepared and a huge part of adequate preparedness is your choice in hunting gear. Let’s discuss how your choice in gear can make all the difference between a highly rewarding trip and one that just doesn’t really deliver.
Wear the Right Clothes
If there’s one mistake a lot of novice snow goose hunters tend to make, it’s in not dressing properly for the climate and the terrain in Missouri. That said, investing in the right hunting gear for your means knowing what to wear. Springtime in Missouri snow goose country can be incredibly cold. Make sure you dress warmly in layers to ensure you’re not chilled to the bone. Make sure your clothes are comfortable as well – the kind of thing you wouldn’t mind spending all day in.
You’ll also want to make sure you dress properly for the damp conditions you’ll likely encounter. Waders are an excellent idea, for instance. Make sure that your hunting boots (and socks) will be comfortable for wearing and walking over long periods of time as well. Waterproof boots are highly recommended, of course.
Don’t Blow Your Cover
Make sure you choose goose hunting gear that will help you blend in with the terrain, not stick out like a sore thumb. Stick to natural colors and camouflage that will help you blend in with the exact environment where you’ll be hunting. Coverings that help conceal your shape from the geese while you’re out there in the field may also be helpful, as are face masks or concealing make-up. If you’re not sure what would work, check with a guide or game warden from the area that might be able to give you some tips.
Bring Enough Firepower
Naturally, the right shotgun is going to make a lot of difference when it comes to the success of your trip. Make sure yours is clean, serviced, and in good working order before you embark on your hunting trip. Having the right snow goose hunting gear also means making sure up front that you have enough ammunition. For each day of hunting, it’s recommended that you have 50-75 shells. You may also want to consider bringing earplugs, sunglasses, and a gun sling to ensure your absolute comfort at all times.
If you have hunting buddies that have been on a snow goose hunt in Missouri before, you may want to ask them for personal tips on hunting gear as well. You’re sure to be glad you did.