Duck hunting the North Shore

[Cody Lubeley]

I've heard that late in the year on the North Shore people can sometimes shoot sea ducks passing through like old squaws and scoters.

Has anyone else heard anything like that i found it hard to believe.

[spivak]

I've never done it but the Minnesota Ornithologists Union posts a weekly update on interesting/rare bird sightings and this week's (for the Duluth area and Northshore) lists Harlequins, all three species of scoters, and long-tailed ducks. Usually good sightings in the harbor at Grand Marais but as far as getting set up someplace where you might get one these sea ducks--that's another matter.

[dan z]

I would think a typical diver setup would work 5-6 doz bill,can,redheads and some goldeneye decoys for major color could draw them in on major points all ya gotta do is try and you might be suprised on the outcome

[Cody Lubeley]

thanks guys i know someone who has a cabin up there in lusten so I might give that a try this season

[MN Greenheads]

There are rock islands about 1/2 mile off the shore just south of G.M.. Good Luck and be real careful.

[riverrat56]

So say you do get the chance to shoot a scooter, old squaw, or harliquin (sp?) is it legal to do so in MN?

[jbell1981]

So say you do get the chance to shoot a scooter, old squaw, or harliquin (sp?) is it legal to do so in MN?

Yes and you can take 6 of them as well if given the opportunity. Basically the only duck you can't shoot this year in MN is a Canvasback. See page 20 of the waterfowl supplement - "If not listed up to 6 ducks of a species may be taken".

[RaininFeathers]

I live just out of Duluth and my dad has seen sea ducks on the lake he has a good view from his office. I personally have seen golden eyes and bills stick around all winter so I'm sure you could have success if you found a decent spot.

[redhooks]

I thought about doing the same thing but was told that along the north shore is a protected refuge,but islands aren't. IMHO,It's a nasty lake in the fall and not worth the risk.

redhooks