Griffen Walden for SPLIT REED
Finally deciding to join a hunting club is no small matter. Not only is it likely going to be a large financial investment, but a place where you can hopefully spend the majority of the winter, and enjoy year after year. If you choose the right group, it could become a lifelong decision that you share with family, and the generations after you; and the less time you spend finding it, the more time you have to enjoy it.
Price
While it’s certainly the least exciting to talk about, it absolutely comes first & foremost. Club memberships can be pricey, very pricey. Be smart, don’t spend out of your budget. I highly recommend setting your budget before even beginning to research memberships, so that something shiny doesn’t catch your eye when you know it’s not for you. And if the right club appears to be in your price range, be sure of the rules of engagement. Consider joining fees, style of the payment plan, commitment length, etc.
The Property
Think about what you’re looking for physically in a duck club. What kind of land do you like to hunt the most? Timber, fields, open water, etc. Also, are you looking to do any other types of hunting on the property? Make sure that what you want is available.
On another note, what are you looking for in a clubhouse? Are you in search of a modern-rustic retreat, but aren’t willing to sacrifice a hot shower & fresh sheets? Or are you okay with a mud-caked floor & some dirty dishes in the sink? Make sure the club in consideration fits your standards & needs, to not only be comfortable in your lodging but to your satisfaction in terms of the land that it sits on.
Members
One of the most critical elements in choosing a club – who you are going to be surrounded by. You could have the nicest cabin on a piece of land with a honey-hole that’s never gone a day without a limit, but if you can’t stand the people hunting it with you, you’re going to be miserable.
This is where friends come in handy. If you know someone who is already a member, be honest and ask them what it’s like. If that’s not possible, ask if you can join as a guest for a weekend, and feel it out. While the ultimate purpose of a duck club is obviously to kill ducks, I might argue that at least half of it is based on the camaraderie shared there. Try to find a club with a good group of people that you fit into and share interests with, so when you’re in the blind or a recliner in front of a fireplace, you have some common ground to share.
Rules
Every club has rules, and you don’t want to find out the hard way that wives aren’t allowed, or something similar (I know it sounds harsh but I’m not kidding, I once saw someone unknowingly bring a girlfriend to a club that apparently strictly forbid it, and have to turn around). And while I’ve personally never encountered one, but I’m sure it’s out there – let’s say a club doesn’t allow drinking, but you like to enjoy a scotch after a day afield, that would definitely be something to know beforehand.
But in all seriousness, make sure you’re clear on guest policies, rules regarding choosing dates or spots, and similar things that could be a make-or-break factor for the idea that you have in mind.
Ducks
Lastly, does the property hold ducks? Do your research, ask around, visit & scout.
Joining a duck club is nothing to take lightly, and a mistake can be costly if you don’t put in the proper search effort. But if you take your time to do the appropriate research & ask the right questions, you may find yourself in a long-term commitment that you can enjoy year after year with people you mesh with, and for the right price at the right location.
