General: 2 November 2017Waterfowl hunting success has been excellent over the past week for both
diving ducks and dabbling ducks. As of Monday, Rice Lake NWR was still
holding >900,000 ring-necked ducks. Scaup and other diving duck
abundance increased in most areas and late season migrants (goldeneyes,
buffleheads, tundra swans) are increasing. Mallard abundance increased
in most areas as well.
Canada goose numbers increased some in many areas but large numbers
still remain in southern Canada.
Soybean harvest is complete but as of October 30, only 38% of the corn
had been harvested, which is 15 days behind the 5 year average and 12
days behind last year.
The weekend forecast calls for highs in the low 30s in the north and lows in
the 20s with additional snow on Friday and Saturday. In southern
Minnesota, highs are expected in the upper 30s to low 40s with lows in the 30s. The forecast through next week calls for highs
only in the mid 20s in the north and mid 30s in the south, with lows in the low 20s in the south and teens (or single digits) in the
north. Expect significant ice coverage by next week, particularly in the north and central zones.
The outlook remains excellent over the next few days for both field hunting and water hunting but water hunters should keep
safety in mind.