St. Marks diver spread. Not every day brings success, but your partner—burning pent-up energy—will no doubt ask: What time tomorrow? (Photo by Steve Dougherty)
December 22, 2024
By Steve Dougherty
Why rise at 3:30 a.m., wade through dark water, battling mosquitoes, snakes and lurking lizards for a few fleeting ducks? The thrill of scouting, planning hunts and setting up decoys ignites an adrenaline surge that peaks when ducks commit to the spread. Some days, the ducks outsmart us; on others, we claim victory. But regardless of the outcome, each hunt stokes the excitement for future adventures.
For me, as a photographer, the experience deepens. From redheads at St. Marks to teal gliding through STAs, ringers in the Everglades and mottleds at Broadmoor, each sunrise unfurls a canvas of possibility against the enchanting backdrop of Florida’s wetlands.
Sitting in the hot, Florida Everglades. Among memorable hunts last year, my buddy Josh invited me to Broadmoor Marsh in Central Florida. Walking into the shallow waters, our four-man crew reveled in the magic of that morning. Each of us secured a mottled duck, one adorned with a band—Florida jewels. Duck hunting has deepened my appreciation for Florida’s unique ecosystems. It’s not just about the hunt; it’s about understanding the rhythms of nature, respecting habitats we traverse, and cherishing the memories we create outdoors.
Setting up a South Florida decoy spread before sunrise. (Photo by Steve Dougherty) Birds circling, cupping their wings, landing gear extended. Do I reach for my 12-gauge or my Canon? Moments like this, captured in images that narrate our adventures, will resonate long after the season ends. Here’s to a new season of adventures in the wetlands!
Advertisement
(Left) One of a foursome of Broadmoor hunters with two teal and the group’s daily bag, one each, of resident mottled ducks. (Right) Variety of calls at the ready; Florida gets its share of flyway wildcards. This article was featured in the November 2024 issue of Florida Sportsman magazine. Click to subscribe .
