Question for the Lk.Ontario hunters...

Brian F.

Well-known member
Hi All,
This goes out to (most likely) the Western New York State hunters, but maybe others might have input as well.
I’ve come “hat in hand” with a request for some help from anyone willing to share some hints or help for duck hunting opportunities on Lake Ontario, in western NY State, or on the Ont. Canada, side too.

My best hunting partner just turned 10 this summer. I’m not sure how many more duck seasons she and I will get to share. We live in Michigan and I have had the great pleasure of duck hunting with her on every one of the Great Lakes, except Lk. Ontario. So I’m trying to put together a 3 day weekend hunt this fall. I’ve scoured the NYDEC website for the WMA info on hunting opportunities, as well as the NR license requirements, etc.
I am just asking for a couple of hints as to which of the WMA’s offer the best chance at some decent duck opps. Since I don’t have the luxury of pre-scouting, and really, will only get one shot at a three day weekend this fall (work schedules, etc.) I am humbly asking for a little insight to help my trip be as productive as I can hope to get. Dog friendly lodging info would be a plus as well. I’m leaning towards late November or early December (weather permitting) I hunt out of a Broadbill so protected water is probably the best. Divers or puddlers, really doesn’t matter to me.
If you are more comfortable to discuss in private, please send me an email or a PM. Also, I’m wide open to company if anyone wants to join, or is willing to let Bella and me tag along on a hunt.

Many thanks in advance.
Brian Floerchinger

(I have this on the MLB site as well)

View attachment bella 9,2008.jpg
 
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I'm normally hesitant to vouch for other people, but I will chime in and say that Brian is an absolute gentleman and passionate waterfowler. If you have the chance to hunt with him it would be a great way to spend a weekend.

I write this on my own accord and with all sincerity.
 
Brian,
Here's a link to an interactive mapping system where you can see (make sure the check box is active) the WMA and other lands availble for hunting

http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/45415.html

You can use the tool bar on the top left to zoom in/out pan and identify the WMA and the attributes with the parcel a link will direct you what is availble (ie boat launch).

I started using this web service to try and go to as many WMA with the FatboyDP. It's hard to say which one will produce, but it has extended the length of my season and any bad day out hunting is better then a good day at work.


Regards,
-Jack
 
Hello Brian,

There are slim pickings on the Lake Ontario Shore in Canada until you are well east of Toronto. If you're willing to drive 5+ hours from the Michigan border you can find some good hunting in both public marshes and a managed waterfowl area that can provide some good shoots, and would meet your need for smaller water. Finding dog friendly lodging might take some work, but should be doable. I no longer live in the area, but if you're willing to make the drive let me know via PM and I can provide some more info.

Gary
 
Don't do much on Lake Ontario until Wolfe Island Canada and no boat opportunity right there but live in the Fingerlakes and can set you up on Cayuga Lake.
 
Thank you Gary.
A 6+ hour drive to hunt is not out of the question at all. I'll think about that for sure.
Best,
Brian F.
 
Hi Alan,
Thank you for the heads up and the offer. I'm still trying to follow up on a hunt on the big lake for Bella.

Best,
Brian F.
 
Shoot me an email and we can talk, I am more than willing to help you out. I live in WNY and hunt the Niagara River quite a bit - a lot actually. I can get you into some hunting on the NY side of L. Ontario, but I can't promise a retrieve. If the Niagara River is close enough, we can get you into some birds for sure. Gary gave you some good info and I know that you have talked to Brent. I am planning to hunt with Brent in mid November.

Tom
 
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