Waterfowl hunting is as much about understanding the weather as it is about having the right gear and skills. Ducks and geese move, feed, and migrate based on changing weather patterns, making conditions a critical factor in a successful hunt. At Birdtail Waterfowl, a Manitoba waterfowl outfitters, we use our deep knowledge of weather patterns to help hunters make the most of their time in the field.
A cold front is one of the most significant weather triggers for waterfowl movement. When temperatures drop suddenly, ducks and geese instinctively push south for open water and food. These migration days can lead to many birds moving through Manitoba, creating excellent hunting opportunities.
Hunting Tip: Be ready before a cold front arrives. Birds will be on the move, so having your decoys set and scouting areas ahead of time can put you in the perfect position when new flocks arrive.
Wind plays a major role in how birds fly and land. Waterfowl prefer to land into the wind for better control, so understanding wind direction is key when setting up a decoy spread.
Hunting Tip: Set your blind and decoys so birds will land in your shooting lane, using wind direction to your advantage. On strong wind days, birds may decoy more aggressively, providing better shot opportunities.
Rain and snow can affect bird movement in different ways. Light rain or drizzle often keeps birds active throughout the day, while heavy rain can limit their movement. Snow, especially early in the season, can push birds into a feeding frenzy, leading to great hunting conditions.
Hunting Tip: In light rain, ensure your decoys are visible and keep calling minimal. On snowy days, focus on field hunts where birds are looking to feed heavily before the next storm rolls in.
When temperatures drop, waterfowl need to eat more to maintain their energy. This means they’ll consistently hit feeding fields, providing excellent hunting opportunities. Warmer days, on the other hand, may lead to midday lulls, requiring more patience in the blind.
Hunting Tip: In colder weather, focus on scouting fields where birds feed. Evening hunts may be more productive as ducks and geese depart for their last meal before nightfall.
Set up with the wind at your back to encourage birds to land in your spread.
Use larger decoy spreads to grab their attention in strong winds.
Call more aggressively to cut through the noise of the wind.
Use high-contrast decoys that remain visible in low light conditions.
Stay dry and warm—layered clothing is key.
If possible, hunt in areas with tree cover or along the edge of a field to break the wind.
Sunny days: Birds see better, so good camouflage and natural shadows help with concealment.
Cloudy days: Birds may fly lower and be less wary, making decoying more effective.
Expect high migration activity just before and after a cold front.
Scout ahead of time to locate fresh flocks moving into the area.
Be in the blind early, as birds often move right at sunrise when temperatures drop.
Hunting waterfowl in Manitoba’s wild landscapes is an incredible experience, but it requires a solid understanding of weather patterns and bird behavior. That’s where Birdtail Waterfowl comes in.
Expert guides who track bird movement based on weather changes.
Prime hunting locations in migration corridors.
Comfortable lodging and meals to keep you warm after a long day in the field.
Access to high-quality gear and top-tier hunting strategies tailored to the conditions.
No matter the weather, our team is prepared to make your hunt as successful and enjoyable as possible.
If you want to experience Manitoba's best waterfowl hunting, Birdtail Waterfowl is ready to guide you. With expert knowledge of how weather influences bird movement and proven strategies for success, we’ll help you make the most of your time in the blind.