The Grind: Part 1

Days 1 & 2 

I pulled out of my driveway 13 days ago with high hopes of filling straps with greenheaded ducks, seeing old friends, making new ones, and turning calls in the Mobile Shop. 

First stop, Stuttgart, AR to hunt with some long time friends, Jason Zerrer and TJ Mallette. We first met and became friends during my calling contest days. Duck reports had been not great, but there were a few birds in the area. While we saw ducks that first morning, none gave our spread any serious consideration. The highlight of the morning was calling in my first speck. Watching that bird react to a call I can now see why speck hunting is becoming more and more popular across the country. 

The afternoon was spent making calls in the mobile shop for two of the best callers I know, Jason and TJ. Between the two, they have qualified for the World’s Calling Contest 7-8 times, so no pressure right? The night was capped off with dinner at Mr. Jim Ronquest’s home. What a treat to get to visit with Jimbo and see his man cave of a shop!

The second day duck numbers were dismal. It seems most ducks that were in the area had moved on to greener pastures. Highlight of the morning, seeing and hearing Jason and TJ blow the calls I made them the day before. I was grinning from ear to ear as the notes rang out in perfect tone and cadence.

All in all, it was an extremely memorable couple of days. Having the opportunity to catch up with old friends all while sharing time in the outdoors together is always good for the soul. 

With the mobile trailer in tow, and the anticipation of finding the center of the migration, I pulled out of the lodge and headed north for what would be a two hour drive to McCrory, Ar. 

To be continued……..