Now that the fishing season is extended well into the fall, fisherman should be aware that duck hunters are prowling the waters too. You may stumble into there line of fire without ever knowing it. Be on the look out! The outdoors is for all sportsman and the extended fishing season can put us directly at odds with one another.

The far end of Sabattus Pond, in Sabattus Maine, is full of duck hunters. It is an easy place to stumble over each other. Keep your eyes open for hunters in blinds hugging the shore and around the graveyard. And, with all the camouflage they have on, they can be hard to spot. But if you are aware, they will show up for you.

While passing the launch on the Saco River the other day, the same situation was evident. I could see several people fishing while hearing the explosions of shot guns firing from further up river. If you haven't stumbled onto any duck hunters while fishing this season, you will!

Look for duck hunters adjacent to still water areas like swamps, tidal basins and areas of low water flow with plenty of brush growth. Hunters will build blinds that are adjacent to shoreline brush, cat nine tails and burble. Most waters will have hunters present this time of year. Only highly developed shore lines will be free of them. The more cover, the better, for hunters. Hunters will also camouflage there boats. I've seen some real battleships out there. I'm glad I don't have wings!

You have to remember that duck hunters wait all season for the beginning of the migration to take place; they are as excited as you to be out on the water. So, when it comes to fall fishing, keep your eyes open for those camouflaged monsters that inhabit the shores this time of year, and we'll all have a good day out on the water!

Be safe and have fun hunting and fishing!

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