The Middle

Its July,

The fireworks are spent, the grills have cooled, the heats kicking up. And duck season feels a hundred years away

Welcome to "The Middle"

Its that time of year where hunters start pacing, you're too far from last season to relive it, and too far from opening morning to taste it. You're not alone- we're all feeling it. The itch to call, the cravings for cold mornings, cupped wings, and wet dogs.

But the middle doesn't have to be dead space. Last month we discussed 10 things we can do now to get ready for duck season. Those help, but they dont always scratch that itch. Here's a couple of ways to make the most of "the middle."

Hit a hunting expo

From big name outdoor shows, to small- town gear swaps. Expos are where the duck hunting world stays alive in the off season. Or " the middle." It's worth the trip. Expos are where you can test the newest calls in person, shoulder the newest shotguns, and compare decoys side by side instead of screen to screen. ( Even though we already know which decoys are the best) 

Expos are where you will meet the hunting community, your surrounded by guides with crazy stories, small business owners full of passion, and die hard hunters who love to chat. There are also seminars that can teach you a tip or two on your calling, blind set ups, dog work, and conservation efforts. Go in with an open mind, eager to find or learn something new, and you just might find expos filling that void you have had since the season ended.

Host a backyard Duck Cookout/ Cook-Off

You can't chase 'em, so you might as well eat 'em. That freezer that's full of birds- pure potential. Why not throw down, and see who in your hunting crew is the true wild game pitmaster? Here's some ideas to run it-

Pick your style, whether you decide to keep it wide open ( any duck, any style) or have a set challenge ( smoked only, cast iron only) You will be amazed what a hunter can do with a grill, smoker, and some duck breasts.

Set the judge criteria- keep it fun, but keep it competitive, the judging criteria can include- Flavor: pretty self explanatory, if the duck melts in your mouth and bursts with flavor, that's the winner. Creativity: Duck tacos? Goose sliders? Award bonus points for something new. Presentation: It is a cook off not cook show- but if it looks great, it should be worth something. 

Bring the vibes. set up tables, coolers, a speaker with your favorite music. Maybe games, like corn- hole or darts in the garage. Make sure everyone knows to make a dish, and bring a bottle (or two). Consider having a trophy for the winner . Maybe you can make this an every year thing, where the trophy changes hands with a new champ every summer. You know your crew best, make a groupchat today and get that cook-off on the calendar!

"The Middle" might not be as thrilling as that first break of dawn in november- but its where real hunters can stay dialed in. Don't waste it, own it. 

We'll see ya in the blind.

Planning to hit an expo? Stop on by the Duck King Decoys booth, and let's talk ducks. Leave a comment below which ones you plan on hitting! 

Having a cook-off, or just a good ol' cook-out? Tag us on your social medias and show off what you made!