Had a bit of a scary situation the other night-what would you have done?

Cody Williams

Cody Williams

Well-known member
So 2 nights ago I was hunting a spot on a local river that flows out into a big marsh, we haven't had highs above 12 degrees since last Tuesday and things are freezing up fast. The particular spot that I was hunting is one of my favorites this time of year because the channel will stay open unless it gets below zero for a few days. The marsh that it flows into will freeze first and it really concentrates the birds onto this particular stretch of river and it can be a fantastic shoot. I managed to time this hunt so that the ice was in an ideal condition, with the river channel mostly open and the marsh frozen except for about a 200 yard wide crescent where the river flows into the marsh.

It was a fantastic hunt, I got set up and was hunting by about 3pm with the temp holding steady at about 8 degrees. The birds were really flying, there were lots of migrating geese passing through, and I even saw some late-migrating tundra swans passing overhead. By the time shooting ended at 5pm the shores were starting to ice up a bit more and the temps were falling.

After I got my rig picked up and everything stowed back in the boat, I went to start the engine to head home and I just could not get it to start up. It would cough and sputter a bit but just wouldn't catch. This is a mud motor with what basically amounts to a lawn mower engine on it, so it's a pretty simple setup-as far as I can tell either the fuel line or carb float has frozen and it just isn't getting enough fuel to start. I tried for about a half hour to get thing running before realizing that it probably just wasn't going to happen.

At this point, it's dark, the temps are falling (the low that night got down to -2), and it's just me and my dog about a mile and a quarter from the nearest boat ramp. I'm plenty bundled up so being cold isn't an immediate problem. The spot that we had been hunting is only about knee deep so my dog didn't get totally soaked, so he's ok for the moment too. My options at this point are either to call my father in law to bring my other boat down to come tow us in, walk out by following a chain of islands and wading the shallow channels between them, or push my boat down the shorelines of the islands back to the boat ramp and paddle across the deeper channels. After calling my wife and telling her about the situation I decided to go ahead and push my boat back to the ramp. I know the channels and bottom conditions well enough that I felt like this was a safe thing to do. Long story short, after about 2 hours of pushing and pulling my boat around, paddling across the deeper channels, and pushing through some shore ice I arrived back at the ramp. I was pretty much an ice ball from chest to toes, my waders were frozen stiff from the chest to the knees, and I was pretty tired but otherwise OK. I did slip and fall into a hole when I was about a quarter mile from the ramp that caused me to take some water in over the tops of my waders, so the last quarter mile was pretty miserable.

So my question is, did I handle this the right way? I suppose the safest bet would have been to call my father in law to come and tow me in, but by the time he left his house, picked up my boat, got to the ramp, and drove out to where I was it would have been at least 9 or 10pm. That would have meant close to 4 hours of sitting and waiting for him to come find me, assuming he didn't get lost in the maze of channels on the way, and then the long tow back to the ramp. As it was by pushing the boat myself I was able to keep myself warm and active. It was actually kind of pleasant, the stars were out and it was pretty peaceful out there. I had my headlamp, spotlight, and navigation lights to guide my way and my dog to talk to for moral support. I had a paddle and push pole on board but I found that I could make faster progress by walking along and pushing the boat in front of me as I was going against the current.

Also, what else could I do to make sure that this doesn't happen again? I was thinking about maybe just starting my motor and letting it run for a few minutes every hour or so to make sure it doesn't freeze up, adding some fuel stabilizer to my tank in case there is any water in there, and possibly packing along a small trolling motor that could push me back if necessary. When the river conditions are like this you really can't go more than a mile and a half or so from the ramp anyway, so a trolling motor would probably get you back, although slowly. I'd like to hear what you guys would have done in this situation, and I would love some advice on keeping this from happening again.
 
I have been in a similar situation but not quite the same low temps. I choose to do the same thing. Stayed with the boat and pushed, paddled, push poled back to ramp. Other that having someone come get you I don't think you had many options. In my case very few people knew how to get where I was and it was in the days before cell phones.

Stuff happens, that is part of the game. I think you handled it well.
 
Cody, I think you are pretty darn lucky. With those temps plus taking on some water, you were most fortunate. Hopefully, next time you will not go out. Your story made me think of Jack London's, "To Build a Fire".
Al
 
Sounds like you did the right thing, since you knew the lay of the land so well. Very cold temps sure is good for making things fail.

Set of oars or small kicker would have been nice to have.

T
 
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Cody-

I will echo what Jode said, I think you did the right thing. I often think through "what if" scenarios as a kind of rehearsal. Most of the time, I come up with a plan to get from open water to land so that I can walk the shore dragging, pushing or pulling the boat along and then crossing channels when necessary with paddle or push pole. Fortunately we live in an area where SeaTow or the like is available in most places that I hunt.

Building the heat by keeping moving I think is a good thing. Forward progress, while even slow, is a boost to the mind and keeps you going.

Glad to hear the situation worked out and not harm came to you and your pup.

Stay safe and have options.

Chad
 
Wow,that's some cold temps! Last saturday morning I was headed out on the meadow at 4am,probably 28 degrees,about 3 miles from the ramp my motor blew,just as I was headed into the ditch I was going to hunt.I still had an easy mile to go,the tide was at my back so I paddled to my spot,got there at shooting time.Set up and waited,knowing I had the whole day with rising temps to figure out a way back.At 7:30,I texted a friend,turns out he was hunting less than a mile away,he had to be in early,so my hunt was cut short but thankfully,I got a tow back to the ramp.It really makes you think,and reminds you that things can go wrong fast.Glad to hear you are safe!A survival kit is a must in your neck of the woods!
 
I would have called someone and started to push. That way if something worse happens at least someones on their way. All my buddies have a list of who has boats in case we need a tow.

Mud motors are quite fickle in those low temps. Ive never had a real problem, ran out of battery but i have a pull start to so no worries. Ill have a jump pack if i dont have pull start.

My next one will have fuel injection and at least neutral, that 25 gator tail would be perfect
 
Well, you had me up on the edge of my seat when reading. You sound like a darn persistent and lucky person.

I never was much for late season ice hunting on the big river, but there are a few things that I do every time I go whether the temperature drops (or not). First of all, I always run gas with anti-freeze and anti-water build up additives. Secondly, a push pole or paddle is pretty much useless when distance is a factor. Therefore, I have a set of long oars that match my boat size. I've only had to use once, but it was worth the security they provided. Rowing keeps you warm and safe while allowing you to move much faster. More than once I've been asked "Why the oars?" You only need them once to realize why.

The cell phone is handy where I hunt. Fortunately, I've never had to call back to duck camp for an assist. Two years ago a friend's motor conked out a couple miles from me. A cell phone call from him (we were both hunting in pool 13 of the Mississippi) resulted in findind him after dark and hauling his rig back to the launch. It was below freezing that night. "Stuff" happens and the more backup planning you have the better.

One thing I've noticed is the younger a person is the more bullet proof they think they are. Then again I'm 73 and everyone thinks I'm nuts for hunting alone. Being prepared and knowing your limitations are acquired skills......especially when you are testing the boundaries.

You simply need to ask "What if?" more often......before you venture out.
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A. TAKE A BUDDY!
B> If you insist on doing the solo with dog thing, take a can of ether--that should wake up the motor!
Err on the side of caution. You seem to have had matters under acontrol, BUT, you never know when something will go awry.
Were you wearing a PFD while completing this adventure?
 
Cody
Man, did you bring back the memories. Two years ago I became stranded while hunting on the Mississippi--lost the function of the motor, tore an oar lock and walked as you did from island to island a matter of 4hours. Ended up on a island just across from my blind but with a deep running slough between safety and emergency equipment. Decided to stay where I was and hoped my wife would contact my son and the right people which she did. Nine hours later I was rescued by the emergency firedepartment (EMS). I now have a cell phone which by the way would not have worked in that area. Not to belabor this but I think you did the right thing and glad it turned out as it did.
wis boz
 
Cody
Man, did you bring back the memories. Two years ago I became stranded while hunting on the Mississippi--lost the function of the motor, tore an oar lock and walked as you did from island to island a matter of 4hours. Ended up on a island just across from my blind but with a deep running slough between safety and emergency equipment. Decided to stay where I was and hoped my wife would contact my son and the right people which she did. Nine hours later I was rescued by the emergency firedepartment (EMS). I now have a cell phone which by the way would not have worked in that area. Not to belabor this but I think you did the right thing and glad it turned out as it did.
wis boz
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406 mMHz PLB prices have really come down. Real piece of mind when in areas without cell phone coverage.
 
Cody
Man, did you bring back the memories. Two years ago I became stranded while hunting on the Mississippi--lost the function of the motor, tore an oar lock and walked as you did from island to island a matter of 4hours. Ended up on a island just across from my blind but with a deep running slough between safety and emergency equipment. Decided to stay where I was and hoped my wife would contact my son and the right people which she did. Nine hours later I was rescued by the emergency firedepartment (EMS). I now have a cell phone which by the way would not have worked in that area. Not to belabor this but I think you did the right thing and glad it turned out as it did.
wis boz
Click to expand...


406 mMHz PLB prices have really come down. Real piece of mind when in areas without cell phone coverage. Tod,you are so right,I have an epirb on my big boat,it's going with me in the late season
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Cody,

It would be tough to "Monday morning quarterback" your decisions. Small details can make a huge difference and I say you seemed to have done what was prudent for YOU under the circumstances of the moment.

As far as what to change in the future; Possibly carry a "ditch kit" which would includes items in it to make an overnight stay comfortable and safe. I have a small sneakbox so space is at a premium but I do carry a wool blanket and I can get in under my boat cover to get out of the wind. Obviously I would call home first to let them know I was spending the night in the field. Yes you may still need assistance the next morning but at least any rescue efforts would be conducted during daylight hours.

Now if you have regular hunting buddies which know exactly how to get to you, then a evening rescue would certainly make sense.

As has been mentioned, keeping your equipment and fuel in tip top shape is the very best thing you can do.
 
Cody, I think under the circumstances you made the right decision. Having been in that situations before myself & knowing because of my age I could not do what you accomplished that day. Several things i have learned to carry as other safety equipment,I not only have a cell Phone but carry a hand held VHF radio, as well as a standard Flare kit you can use to have them find you. which is required here in N.J. no mater what type of Motorized Boat , you can either call the Coast Guard & if they could not Come they could at least call local marine police Or your town Police who would find you some help.Also Learned under severe weather conditions you DON'T HUNT ALONE,To have that second boat & motor is a Great security Blanket
 
I wouldn't second guess anything you did after not being able to get the motor started. There are many aspects to this hunt that over my lifetime of hunting have led me to weigh the value of the duck vs. mother nature's current offerings. Once it's below freezing temps, I no longer hunt with my dog. Yes they have fur, and they can wear a vest, however I have hair on my head (mostly gray) yet I wear a hat to help keep me warm. My dog on the other hand doesn't wear a hat. I've had Chessies that loved to break ice for a duck, I also watched them suffer in what should have been their peak years (no pun) with severe arthritis. I also look at the mud motor. Bought another version of one last fall, still hesitate going way back anywhere by myself. It's always better to go with two boats especially to locations way back off the normal accessibility of an outboard. Knowing your waters is probably the most key aspect to your safe arrival in this situation. I really like the river hunting aspect of hard bottoms and walkable areas should the weather pick up. The fact that you kept moving probably kept both you and your father in law from both getting into trouble. Hunting fresh water even rivers at temps below 20 F...think twice and plan ahead for what could happen.
Glad you made it out safe, You obviously had a few fears during this hunt or you wouldn't have wrote about it..hopefully, those fears won't be in your future hunts.
 
The second you know your hosed...make a call...it's just a phone call, it ain't a man-card demo. My fellow sailors were under orders to call me day or night for anything...period. Drunk/sober/broke down/upset ...it didn't matter. Call. It made me feel good every single time my crew called me. I got a call last elk season from a shipmate stuck clear up in the elk woods broke down. It was a four hour drive for me but I was there....And I'd been retired for five years.

1. Make sure they know exactly where you are.
2. Make sure they know your exact plans.
3. Make sure they know how long its going to take you roughly.
4. Make sure they know a specific time they need to start coming if you havn't checked in.

Gear up...PFD, waders, everything. Remember the PFD won't keep you warm. If you get real cold, you will loose your mind and do dumb stuff...probably fatal stuff. Sometimes that nice warm feeling is you about to clock out.

I would'a left the boat, if I didn't have the gear to spend the night, and walked out leaving it. I understand you wanting the dog dry. Given your situation, It sure would have been nice to get to the ramp and have had somebody with warm dry clothes, warm coffee, and a nice warm cab to sit in. All it'd take is a phone call. Due to a overnighter myelf, I now carry the gear to spend the night, no matter the situation or weather. Food shelter fire....and somebody who know's where you are. Stuff can alway happen no matter how much you prepare, the key is to have all the gear if the worst happens.-Seth (USCG ret.)

ps...Tie yourself to the boat, so (A) you have something that floats close by if you get over your head and (B) it make it easier to find the body.
 
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Been there done that. I ended up in a storm back in a creek out of weather. After I realized what the weather was, it was a long and scary 40 minute ride back to the truck, usually 4-5 minutes. Told the wife where I was but hide the truck??? Who knew... My brother scouted for me for a couple of hours also. Now I have a cell phone and try to hunt with others or other guys know where I'm hunting.
Think I'm getting older and wiser, maybe.
Be safe and good duckin...
 
Wow, thank you for all the replies guys. I really enjoyed reading your stories and advice. I'm among the younger guys on this site (just turned 35 in September) and I really value the experience and good advice that you guys have. It's a really great resource and I love having such a positive community here!

I hunt alone probably 50% of the time but I make it a point to let my wife know exactly where I'll be and thanks to cell phones I can keep in good contact with her or a buddy. I have a few buddies I could have called on to come out and get me but as I said I think that by the time they got to where I was I could have walked out already. I was able to keep in good contact with my wife through the walk back so she knew my progress. Thank goodness for cell phones!

I will definitely put together an overnight kit to pack with me when the weather is this bad, I was thinking of adding my backpacking stove and some freeze dried food for an emergency also. I will need to start adding fuel stabilizers to my gas tank too. I have run mud motors in these temps several times before but this is the first time I've had one refuse to start on me. It's a scenario that I've run through in my head before but I never really thought it would happen! I would never run a motor without a pull start backup but even that wouldn't get her started this time. I'm thinking a small propane heater to stash in the boat wouldn't be a bad idea either. Oars sound like a great idea also, it would have been a more comfortable way home for sure!

It might sound like it's too cold to hunt in temps like this but around here those are the best hunting days of the year. I'm sure it's all about what you're used to, we get some long spells of single digit weather here and after a while it starts to feel normal. However when you add water to the mix it can get dangerous fast, it really calls for some extra caution and judgement. Ice and open water makes me nervous and I really treat it with respect.

I had my PFD's on board but I wasn't wearing one during the walk back, I really should have put one on for extra safety.

As for my dog, I think he would have been happy to stay there all night if it meant a chance at more birds. I regularly hunt him in these temps, he seems to love it more the colder it gets but I'm always careful to keep him out of the wind and make sure he has a dry place to sit. I also make it a point to get him up and running around a bit every half hour or so if the hunting and retrieving has been slow to keep his body temperature up. Many times we have ended a hunt with his coat almost totally iced up, but thanks to that wonderful Chesapeake double coat I don't think his skin gets wet much at all.

There is a lot more to think about, thanks again for the replies. I will also say that I never thought I was in any real danger but as I was walking back I was thinking about what it must have been like for the hunters who were caught out in the Armistice day storm. I can't imagine what it must have been like for those guys to realize that they weren't going to make it out alive. It was a sobering thought for sure. I've had enough close calls in my life to realize how fragile life is, and I really try to think things through and not put myself in any unnecessary danger. Thanks again for your stories and advice.
 
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A 2 hr dark hike is no big deal but in cold wx waterfowl hunting (in a boat not fields), at the temps you were in, there is no margin for error.

When you say you took water over your waders I wonder about water depth. Knee deep - OK. Waist deep & you could have been 6" away from drowning.

From personal experience, when I was in my 20s a long long time ago, complete immersion in cold water will drain you of all strength. And I was just frostbite sailing. I had on foul wx gear but no waders. And temps were only in the 30s. When the tender came to pick me up I expected to be able to haul myself in the boat unassisted & found out I was very wrong.
 
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