Duck Hunting, NW WA, Skagit County Sand Islands on Padilla Bay

[Auggie]

Was up scouting the Sand Islands this weekend (Labor Day) and found many new blinds built. Most of which were posted "Leased Hunting" or "No Trespassing". Been hunting here since the early 80's, they were created by the core of engineers dredging the channel and have not been posted this widely before. Never been run off there. Does anyone really knows who owns/controls the islands?

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[Woody]

hunted there last year and never saw those signs. I believe that is trible land? maybe a club bought the rights to that area for the waterfowl season or the tribe is renting them? I will check further and let you know what I find. Land owners in the last couple years are finding out how much us waterfowlers love hunting and have been leasing rights for the season to people, for the right amount of money. I have heard of places being rented for the season and only one season for $5,000. and up! I like that area

 

[ferg]

Is it legal to hunt in Padilla Bay from a boat? What kind of ducks are actually out there? What kind of boat/rig are people using? Where can you put it? I know it can get rough quick around here. I'm thinking of buying a 14' jon boat and giving it a try. Any ideas?

 

[Woody]

yes. Padilla bay, port susan, and a couple others you are required to be anchored when shooting. I have hunted Padilla in a 16' boat. there is a launch under hwy 20 bridge by the casino. Make sure you know the tides and the weather as it can be very unforgiving. All kinds of ducks out there! 14' jon boat should be just fine on good days but you might have issues when bad weather comes