Hunting is a social endeavor. We like to be with our friends and enjoy the company. But, we also know some arrive ill-prepared and really put little effort into getting ready.

So how does one make himself or herself a hunting partner that gets invited repeatedly? It starts early by asking simple questions: What do you want me to do, what do I need, and how can I help?

It drives me crazy when someone arrives and then starts asking questions. Best effort is to get your gear ready ahead of time. Gun is in working order, you have the right shells and enough of them to last the day, a way to carry it in like a sling, a shell bag works well. Get the other stuff in there too like calls, gloves, sunglasses, and snacks. Make sure your headlamp is good to go with new batteries or charged and if you have it, offer up a spot light.

Get your clothes in order, make sure you have rain gear and most importantly make sure your camo is correct. Have a hat and face mask too. Bring a marsh chair to use if not using a layout or other boat. A five-gallon bucket works, but drill a hole in it and make sure to camouflage. Bring some extra camo like burlap or something you can construct a blind. Make sure you waders do not leak.

Ask if you need to bring decoys. Honestly, it is a good idea to invest in some so have a couple dozen deception mallards strung and ready to use. A Lucky Duck HD spinner is good, and any water surface motion never hurts. The message is, you are participating and not on a commissary hunt. Most have invested a ton of money into their hunting equipment – you should consider a purchase or two also.

Once you arrive to the hunt, be helpful. Get your stuff out and leave nothing behind. Help others get boats launched and trailers unloaded. Haul your weight to get it all into the marsh. Once out, help get the decoys set, find a task and contribute. Help those that brought more. Never quit helping until it is time to hunt or go home.

Offer to buy the fuel for the boat or the truck, if not driving. Even buying lunch shows a lot of appreciation. Everyone appreciates participation and willingness to help. I can assure you, if you help, you will be asked back to hunt again another day!