Reprinted article written by Peterson's Hunting Journal outdoor editor Chris Dossey in the August, 2000 issue!

WATERFOWLING PERFECT 10

Check Out North America's best duck and goose hunting destinations.

Ducks and geese aren't the only ones to migrate each autumn, for growing legions of duck and geese hunters are doing the same in their search for the best waterfowling available. Whether road tripping or flying, hunters can find exceptional hunting for modest fees--if you know where to look. Here's a primer to get you started as you plan to extend your season this fall.

ARKANSAS

Fabled for its flooded timber mallard gunning, no state hosts more visiting waterfowlers than does Arkansas. A well-developed infrastructure of outfitters, guides and lodges has evolved across the state to serve the thongs of hunters who decend on the state to enjoy mallard gunning in the heart of the birds' wintering grounds.

While the state is most famous for green timber hunting, most hunting is done in flooded rice or soybean fields. When the price of soybeans climbed in the 1970's, Arkansas' forests were razed in favor of agriculture. The sad irony today, however, is that the price of soybeans and rice plummeted while flooded-timer duck hunting has become a premium.

Public hunting areas in Arkansas - especially along the White and Cache rivers - offer tremendous duck hunting, but the competition for prime timber "holes" is intense. Unless you have a significant amount of time to invest in scouting, it's unreasonable to think you can simply plan a foray to Arkansas with the expectation of enjoying quality duck hunting.

A better option is to hire the services of a guide. There are numerous reasonably priced guides and outfitters across the state that will increase your odds of finding ducks and enjoying your stay. One of the better outfits is the Davy Crockett Guide Service based in the town of Walnut Ridge.