What should I bring to hunt grouse?
- New York State small game hunting license (purchase here) with HIP number and federal migratory bird stamp.
- Shotgun of choice with a case – We prefer 20 gauge, but bring what you like the best.
- Box of #6-7.5 non toxic shot. We shoot 6s
- Clothing appropriate for cold weather. Hunter orange is a requirement.
- Orange Hat.
- Shooting glasses.
- Gun oil.
- Snacks if desired – no alcohol on hunting trips.
- Brush pants.
- Good pair of waterproof or resistant boots.
- Small cooler to transport game.
What gun should I bring?
Generally we prefer double guns 20 guage or less. A 12 gauge will work but keep in mind you have to carry it at the low ready all day.
What ammo should I bring?
We like #6 shot here. The one exception is in the early season when there are still a lot of leaves up we might go down to a 7.5. Non toxic is not required but is encouraged.
I'm from Canada, What do I need to know?
What should I bring to hunt woodcock?
- New York State small game hunting license (purchase here) with HIP number and federal migratory bird stamp.
- Shotgun of choice with a case – We prefer 20 gauge, but bring what you like the best.
- Box of #6-7.5 non toxic shot. We shoot 7.5s for woodcock.
- Clothing appropriate for cold weather. Hunter orange is a requirement.
- Orange Hat.
- Shooting glasses.
- Gun oil.
- Snacks if desired – no alcohol on hunting trips.
- Brush pants.
- Good pair of waterproof or resistant boots.
- Small cooler to transport game.
Which gun should I bring?
Double guns of 20 gauge or less are the ideal gun for woodcock. You can hunt with a 12 gauge but we really feel like its overkill. You have to be mindful of your range when hunting with a 12 gauge.
What ammo should I bring?
#7.5 or smaller shot is what you want for woodcock. We shoot spreaders when we are hunting woodcock specifically. RST makes a great shell but a standard target load will work well.
Do I need a duck stamp?
A duck stamp is not required to hunt woodcock. We do encourage people too buy one however. The proceeds from duck stamps goes to preserving their habitat.
What should I bring on my duck hunting trip?
- New York State small game hunting license (purchase here) with HIP number and federal migratory bird stamp.
- Shotgun of choice with a case – We prefer 12 gauge, but bring what you like the best.
- Several boxes of #2-4 non toxic shot.
- Clothing appropriate for very cold weather. No bright colors.
- Shooting glasses.
- Gun oil.
- Snacks if desired – no alcohol on hunting trips.
- Good pair of warm waterproof or resistant boots.
- Small cooler to transport game.
What gun should I bring?
Bigger is better. We use 3inch 12 gauge guns. Long tailed ducks are a very hardy target. 20 gauge guns can get the job done in skilled hands but generally speaking most clients bring 12 gauge guns with them. Plugs are required.
What ammo should I bring?
We like #2-4 shot out of a 3 inch shell. Non toxic shot is required. In our experience Hevi-Shot is the best but any of your standard waterfowl ammunition should suffice.
Do I need a duck stamp?
A federal migratory bird stamp is required to hunt sea ducks. Place the stamp on the back of your license and sign across the face of it. The stamps can be purchased at post offices and sometimes at local sportsman stores such as dicks.
What licenses do I need?
A current NY small game hunting license is required for all hunts. During woodcock season on all grouse hunts you need a NY HIP number. Waterfowl hunts require a federal migratory game bird stamp.
Do I need a HIP number and where can I get it?
Yes! You need a HIP number to hunt waterfowl and woodcock in New York. A HIP number can be obtained by calling 1-888-427-5447 or by visiting the following LINK.
Do I need a duck stamp?
In New York a bird stamp is required to hunt waterfowl. It must be attached to the back of your license and signed across the face. A bird stamp is NOT required to hunt woodcock.
Any other license that I need?
No additional licenses are required. New York does not have special tags issued for game birds.
What should I bring with me in general?
Besides for any item mentioned above you may want to bring a camera with you, some extra dry socks, maybe some hand warmers if its cold and a change of clothes. The northwoods can be tough so wear the appropriate clothing. On a grouse hunt you will be occasionally busting through brush.
Is it required by law to wear hunter orange?
The state of New York does not require small game hunters to wear hunter orange but they do strongly recommend it and we stand by that. All of our grouse and woodcock hunters are required to wear an orange hat at a minimum and more would be safe and appreciated.
Can I bring my dog with me?
Yes, we love it when our clients bring their own dogs. We will be happy to help you with accommodating your pets or helping you fins suitable accomodations.
Where are the local vet clinics?
High Peaks Veterinary Clinic
Plattsburgh Animal Hospital
Animal Clinic of Malone
