Waterfowl hunting: Frequently asked questions
We’re pretty sure we’ve got it covered here, but if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, you can go to our ‘Contact Us’ page and drop us a line. We're happy to jump on the phone or answer an email anytime, so fire away.
General Questions
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We offer all hunters the ‘Ultimate Package’ – a 3-day, 5-hunt package for $3849USD+11% tax.
This includes: hunting, ammo, gun, tags, accommodations, meals, transportation to/from field, bird processing and more. You can see more details on our ‘Pricing’ page.
You can also add a 6th hunt at certain times, subject to availability. -
Transportation to and from the lodge, airfare, car rental, tips, alcohol and any camo/hunting clothes you may need are not included in our packages.
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Our area is known for abundant populations of mallards, pintails, snow geese, Ross’ geese, lesser & greater Canada geese, blue geese and speckle belly geese.
We also have abundant populations of sandhill cranes and grouse but these are more seasonal.
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Our season typically runs from September 1st to the first week of November and we’ve got heavy birds the entire time. Early season offers warmer weather and mixed species, while later in the season attracts large migratory flocks.
Sandhill cranes typically migrate through in early September if that’s what you’re after too.
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Our typical hunts take place in groups of 6-8, but you’re more than welcome to book in with any number of hunters. If you’re running solo or part of a smaller group, we’ll partner you up to make a larger group of 7. We find many of our clients have made life-long friends after sharing the blind with a complete stranger.
For groups larger than 8 or if you’d like a smaller, private hunt, please give us a call and we can make arrangements for you to make sure your hunt is what you’re looking for. -
Yes, we welcome hunters of all skill levels and tailor the experience to your abilities and preferences. We welcome hunters of all ages too – no matter your ability, we’ll make it a memorable hunt for you.
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Yes, there is cell phone service at the lodge and in most of our hunting areas. We also have Starlink wifi at our cabins, so you’ll remain connected the whole time – unless you want us to tell your loved ones there’s bad cell reception 🤫.
Travel & Licensing
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We recommend you have travel, trip cancellation and medical insurance for your travel. We recommend checking out Global Rescue as our clients get reduced rates through them.
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We recommend you fly into Saskatoon (YXE). If you’re coming from the USA, there are options for connecting through Minneapolis and others through Toronto and Calgary which can get you to most places.
We’re also about 4 hours from Edmonton (YEG) or Regina (YVR) if you prefer a flight from there. -
We have access to excellent rates for car rentals through Enterprise – let us know before you book and we can get that sorted for you.
We do offer a ‘Royal Treatment’ package that includes Chauffeur service - Contact Us to discuss this option. -
Yes, you’ll need to fill out a Non-Resident Firearms Declaration Form and pay a $25 fee per gun at the border. All rules are set by the Canada Border Services Agency and can be found at: cbsa-asfc.gc.ca.
We can guide you through the process if you’d like but we do have shotguns available for your use. We’ve had hunters miss their connecting flights due to paperwork or processing with a gun, so we like to make sure you’ve got ample layover time if you’re going to be bringing your own shotgun.You'll need to declare your gun upon arriving to Canada. It’ll help make your customs experience smoother by having your Non-Resident Firearms Declaration Form filled out prior to going through customs.
DO NOT SIGN THE FORM UNTIL YOU'RE IN FRONT OF A CUSTOMS AGENT.
Having the form pre-filled (WITHOUT SIGNATURE) will help make your entry into Canada go more smoothly.
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No need for you to obtain these as we will do it for you. It is easier this way and less for you to worry about.
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U.S. citizens need a valid passport. For other countries, a passport should suffice but it is worth checking what paperwork you need to travel on your country’s official website.
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We’ve got great, paved runways in both Saskatoon and Prince Albert. If you’re needing to clear customs, you’ll have to land in Saskatoon. We can help arrange hangar space if that’s something you need.
We also have a few well maintained grass runways within 20 minutes of us if you’d like to land your Husky or Cessna.
Hunting Logistics
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Groups usually range from 6–8 hunters, but we may be able to accommodate smaller or larger parties with advance notice. When the birds are really moving, there’s nothing quite like 12 guns knocking them out of the sky; it’s a thrill that every hunter needs to experience!
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We use layouts, A-frame blinds, or natural cover setups depending on conditions and terrain.
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Success rates are high due to the region’s abundant waterfowl and our experienced guides. Many of our groups reach their bag limits while hunting with us. You can see examples on our social media pages, or by checking out our ‘Gallery’ page for a few examples of past hunts.
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We encourage you to work with your guide on this; we ask you to let the guide lead here, but as your hunt goes on, we are happy to have you give it a go if the situation allows for it.
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We start early, around 4:00–5:00 AM, to set up for the morning hunt. We typically will take an afternoon break and catch a few zzz’s before heading back out a few hours before sundown. We can hunt from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sundown.
Gear & Preparation
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You can arrive at camp anytime after 4pm on the day prior to your first scheduled hunt day so you can get settled in and rest up for your first hunt the next morning. It'll be an action packed 3 days so we want to make sure you’re ready to roll when the birds are!
If your flights don’t quite line up to get here at a decent time, we recommend staying at the Courtyard Marriott Saskatoon Airport hotel. -
Bring waterproof camo gear, layers for variable weather, gloves, and a good pair of boots. A packing list will be provided upon booking, but for more details, check out our ‘What To Bring’ page.
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We provide all the ammo you can shoot and use 12 gauge 3-inch Challenger brand shells in shot sizes 2 and 4. Lead shot is now prohibited for hunting migratory birds in Saskatchewan so we use steel shot for all our ammo.
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Although not required, camo is highly recommended. Your dad may have shot ducks in a flannel and blue jeans – and so have we – but camo will give you better odds as the birds we hunt tend to get wise to a guy in Levi’s. Patterns that mimic prairie grass or marshland are ideal.
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Early season is mild, with temperatures in the 40s–70s. Late season is usually cooler, with temperatures dropping below freezing in the morning the closer you get to November 15th. Layers are your best friend here!
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Not necessarily. We typically are set up on dry ground but it can get a bit mucky. Depending on conditions, you might find our guides in hikers or in rubber boots; we recommend wearing what you think you’ll be most comfortable in. In the rare instance we find ourselves hunting by water, we’re on the edge of a slough or a shallow body so waders are not required.
Lodging & Meals
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Aurora Skies Resorts offers private, detached cabins that come with their own beds, washrooms, living room and kitchenette.
Riverbend Lodge is a massive building that can sleep over 20 and has everything you’d ever need for an epic trip.
You can see more information on these on our ‘Our Lodge’ page. -
Yes, we provide hearty, home-cooked meals, including brunch and dinner. Let us know about dietary restrictions in advance.
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Amenities include Wi-Fi, cable TV, and a fire pit for evening relaxation. We also provide all bed linens and towels.
There’s no hot tub, but there’s a nice swimming beach a few steps away from North Camp and the South Saskatchewan River at South Camp if you’re brave enough. -
Yes, we provide bird cleaning services and take care of all packing and freezing for you.
Birds packed for transport can be done by our guides for $5/bird. If you’d like to donate your birds, we work with our local First Nations communities to provide meat on your behalf.
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Yes, family members and friends are welcome. Non-hunting activities like hiking, birdwatching, golf or photography can be arranged. Please let us know this ahead of time as we have reduced rates for those wanting a vacation that does not include any hunting.
Rules, Ethics + Safety
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Be sure to check the official regulations to confirm the most up to date limits, but they are:
Ducks, Canada & White-Fronted Geese - 8 daily, 24 possession
Snow & Ross’ Geese - 20 daily, unlimited possessionSandhill Cranes - 5 daily, 15 possession
Coots & Snipe - 10 daily, 30 possession
Official limits can be found here. -
We will walk you through the basics when you arrive, and guides will take all groups through a safety briefing in the field before each hunt. This is absolutely mandatory. We believe this sets the stage for an enjoyable and successful hunt for everyone.
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We do not typically use dogs, but you are welcome to bring your dog if you are the only group hunting at the time. Please contact us with any questions about this as we may be able to work with you here.
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Alcohol is permitted in moderation after hunting. Smoking is allowed in designated areas.
Payment + POlicies
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Prices are $3849USD+tax per hunter for our most popular 3-day, 5-hunt package. A 50% deposit is required to reserve your spot. The full amount is due on or before June 1st of each year. For more information, visit our ‘Pricing’ page.
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Cancellations made 120 days before the trip receive a full refund, minus the original deposit; we will work with you to find a future date for your hunt. For our full cancellation policy, click here.
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Yes, we offer discounts for larger groups and loyalty incentives for returning hunters. Please contact us about this.
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Gratuities are not an expectation but are greatly appreciated and typically range from 10-20% of the package price. Tips are a large part of our team’s wage and show your appreciation for all of their efforts regardless of weather or migration patterns - our team works very hard to put you on the birds and make sure you always have a full stomach!
For a general guideline on tips:
10% = Good Experience. The team put in the work and you leave satisfied with the overall experience.
15% = Great Experience. You’re sending buddies multiple pictures of barred up speck piles and Celine’s freshly baked buns.
20%+ = Trip of a Lifetime. You’ve already booked off Sept 15th in your calendar and can’t wait to get back here next year.
All tips can be given to either Stefan or Domenic, and we will distribute them equally among our staff. As owners, we do not take any tips; these are for your hardworking guides, scouts, cooks and cleaning staff! -
Yes, we carry liability insurance, but we recommend you have travel, trip cancellation and medical insurance for your travel. Check out Global Rescue as our clients get reduced rates through them.
Post-Hunt Questions
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Yes, cleaning services are included in your hunt package. We can pack your birds for transport for $5/bird (cooler included) and give you tips for travelling with frozen meat if needed.
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Birds must be labeled, with one fully feathered wing attached for identification. We’ll provide guidance here.
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We recommend taking your birds home with you for the easiest process. Shipping and importing can get pricey.
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There are many activities to take part in during the fall in Saskatchewan. Depending on the weather, there is excellent fishing, boating, hiking, bird watching, golf and other outdoor activities just steps right from our cabin doors. Simply driving around and experiencing the changing colors and the crops getting taken off by our local harvest is a sight in and of itself. We may even be able to get you in a combine to pick up a few swaths if that’s what you’re after!
Saskatoon has a beautiful river valley and many top-notch restaurants which we recommend checking out too. Be sure to ask us about other activities as we call this wonderful place home and we’re happy to share it with you. -
We offer a few different discounts: if you book in with us again, you’ll have access to a pretty sweet discount, but if you book your next hunt before you leave, we’ll sweeten it even more. Make sure you ask us about this!
