Craig, It is a sad prediction to be sure and one that is based on observation and jusified prediction. I am a member of a waterfowl fraternity, however I seem a little odd to the others. I paddle a canoe or row a boat when the wind is to high to safely paddle. I have avoided the mudmotors etc. so far but one day I may see the light of logic and spare myself some sore shoulders and late returns. I use a mixture of very old and I admit some modern decoys, shoot 100 year old doubles and load my own lp ammo. I rise early and make a good 6 to 8 hours each outing if my schedule permits. My freinds all shoot semi autos and keep track of how quick they can accumulate the limit. I pick and choose by species and drakes only if my eye sight serves me well. I love to watch my dog make incredible retrieves and get a kick out of getting birds to decoy to my set. I still build blinds and generally muck about in the marsh watching and listening and restoring my soul. I don't begrudge others their more efficient pursuits. The clubhouse is gone now but we may build another. We have been using a wall tent and stove for weekend outings but even that is changing with the guys bringing portable cots, gas heaters, barbeques etel. Most won't come out if it is below freezing, just too much work. Still it is a joy to be in the marsh on a wind blown day with birds with weather bred wind driving them past in the rain, sleet and snow. I did convert one member to my approach and he laughs most of the time at the fun he is having. My sons will join me this year ( or that is the plan ) and we will enjoy some old camp style comraderie some fun filled kidding and a pull at the oars in the predawn.
