At the heart of every unforgettable hunt at Mattamuskeet Goose Club, there’s more than just the thrill of the skies and the sweep of the marsh. There’s a steady presence moving quietly through the tall grass, ears perked, nose low to the ground, tail fluttering with purpose. It’s the setters—our devoted, skilled, and beloved companions—who bring both grace and grit to each day in the field.
Setters have been part of hunting traditions for centuries. Known for their uncanny ability to locate birds and “set” or crouch low when on point, setters like the English Setter have long been favored by sportsmen for their intelligence, endurance, and gentle nature. But here at Mattamuskeet, they’re more than just bird dogs—they’re part of the soul of our club.
Our setters are trusted partners in the marshes and blinds, helping make every hunt more successful, more memorable, and more deeply rooted in the legacy of sporting life. Whether it’s an early morning with frost still clinging to the grass or a brisk afternoon on the water’s edge, our setters are right there—focused, driven, and ready.
Each setter at Mattamuskeet Goose Club is trained with care, patience, and consistency. Their natural instincts are nurtured from a young age, turning that raw potential into the refined ability that makes them such vital assets in the field. With every successful point and smooth retrieval, they show just how much skill and dedication lives behind those watchful eyes.
What truly sets our setters apart, however, isn’t just their fieldwork—it’s their heart. These dogs form strong bonds with our members and guests. They learn the landscape just as we do, developing their favorite spots and showcasing individual personalities that quickly become unforgettable. Some are calm and calculated, others full of bounding energy, but all are loyal to the end. They’re the kind of dogs you remember for life.
Spend enough time at the lodge, and you’ll hear story after story about the setters who’ve worked these fields over the years. There are tales of dogs that made impossible retrieves, of young pups finding their first birds, and of old-timers who still rise at the sound of boots and shotguns. They are, in many ways, the heartbeat of Mattamuskeet.
Their presence extends beyond the hunt. After a long day, it’s not unusual to see our setters curled up by the fire or napping in a sunny patch just outside the lodge. They thrive in the field, but they live for the companionship and connection they share with the people who hunt beside them. It’s this balance—of drive and devotion—that makes them so special.
If you’re new to hunting with setters, the experience is like no other. Watching one work a field is both a lesson in precision and a glimpse into something almost spiritual. Their movements are fluid and deliberate, each step calculated, each glance full of purpose. They don’t just find birds—they understand the hunt in a way that feels almost human.
The English Setter, in particular, is a breed rich in history and heritage. Developed in the 16th century, this breed was crafted to assist hunters by silently pointing and setting, long before firearms became common. Their elegant stride, feathery coat, and ever-loyal disposition have made them a favorite among sporting enthusiasts for generations. You can learn more about their background and characteristics on the American Kennel Club’s English Setter profile.
At Mattamuskeet, we honor that heritage. Our club isn’t just about tradition for tradition’s sake—it’s about preserving the time-honored practices that make hunting meaningful. And setters are a key part of that legacy. Just like the flooded fields, the decoy spreads, and the whispered strategy shared in the early morning hours, they are an essential thread in the fabric of what we do.
If you haven’t yet visited us or had the chance to hunt alongside our setters, we welcome you to experience it firsthand. Whether you’re a lifelong hunter or new to the sport, there’s nothing quite like seeing one of our dogs in action. Their presence adds depth, joy, and even a bit of magic to every outing.
At the end of the day, the success of any hunt lies not just in the number of birds but in the quality of the moments shared. And with our setters by your side—pointing, retrieving, and walking every step with quiet loyalty—you’re sure to take home far more than a harvest.
