178 GAME SHOAL-WATER FOWL. 



wading, unless there happens to be a fallen tree- 

 top or pile of brush in a favorable position for 

 shooting, and large enough to conceal both boat 

 and shooter, the sportsman would better, after find- 

 ing a place for his boat where it will not be 

 seen, get out and take a position as near as pos- 

 sible to where the main body of the ducks are 

 sitting. He must avoid standing under large 

 branches or an overhanging tree-top, as such would 

 interfere with his shooting ; but if he can find an 

 old log, stump, or clump of bushes in the proper 

 location, he should get behind it, though if his 

 dress be of the proper color, and he will hide 

 his face and avoid moving suddenly when ducks 

 are approaching, a blind is not absolutely neces- 

 sary. On seeing ducks flying about, no matter 

 in what direction, he should call loudly ; and after- 

 ward from time to time repeat the call, whether 

 ducks are in sight or not. Frequently they may 

 be in hearing when he is unable to see them 

 through the thick woods ; and in no place will 

 ducks answer the call as readily as here. De- 

 coys are seldom used, yet if there is an open 

 place handy where they may be readily seen, it 

 is a good plan to stick up a few dead ones. A 

 retriever is necessary for this sport, particularly 



