Canvasbacks

Steve Hodges · 12-27-2018, 06:18 PM

I have been a dedicated duck hunter here in NH for more years than I care to remember, but have never shot a Can. I really wish that I could as I would add it to the wall. I have always read that they are the best eating duck. Can any of you "Can" hunters comment on that?

Double Lab · 12-27-2018, 06:39 PM

Well Steve, back in the 60's or 70's down here in the Chesapeake there were the best eating bird. But as with any other bird it all depends on what they have been eating. Back then they would concentrate heavily in the upper Susquehanna River flats and would feed on bay grasses and they were delicious. Now, not so much as the grasses are gone and they feed on various invertebrates which gives them that fishy taste. They still are a handsome bird.

Steve Kleist · 12-27-2018, 07:11 PM

Steven and Daryl,
Everyone has a favorite table duck.
Back in the early 1900's the market hunters could sell a canvasback in the Chicago markets for $2.....consider that a new vehicle back then cost about $200. Someone must have thought they were pretty good!
Both cans and redheads are exceptional.
Best Fishes,
Steve Kleist Ely, MN

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stephen Hodges

I have been a dedicated duck hunter here in NH for more years than I care to remember, but have never shot a Can. I really wish that I could as I would add it to the wall. I have always read that they are the best eating duck. Can any of you "Can" hunters comment on that?

Steve Hodges · 12-27-2018, 07:33 PM

Thanks guys. Here in NH our best eating duck, according to me, is our early season wood ducks that have been feeding on acorns. Very nice.