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As December rolls in, the colder months bring a new kind of magic to Mattamuskeet Goose Club, one of the premier waterfowl hunting destinations in North Carolina. Located near Lake Mattamuskeet, the state’s largest natural lake, the region becomes a sanctuary for a variety of migrating waterfowl, especially geese. The months of December and January are prime hunting times at Mattamuskeet, with thousands of geese passing through or settling in the area. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to the sport, knowing where to hunt and how to approach different areas around the club can significantly increase your chances of a successful goose hunt. 

Mattamuskeet Goose Club offers a variety of habitats, from open fields to wetland marshes, that attract different species of geese. These geese are often migrating from northern regions, heading to warmer climates, and the area’s ample food sources and resting spots make it an ideal stopover. Understanding the geography and bird behavior around Mattamuskeet can help hunters position themselves for success. 

The marshlands surrounding Lake Mattamuskeet are among the most popular hunting locations. Geese, particularly those migrating through the area, are attracted to the shallow, productive waters where they can feed and rest. These areas are rich in vegetation, providing natural food sources that draw the geese in, making them ideal hunting grounds. When hunting in the marshes, stealth is key. Geese can easily detect movement, and positioning your blinds in areas with dense reeds or cattails can help conceal you from the birds. It’s also important to consider wind direction, as geese tend to land into the wind. Positioning your decoys in the path that the geese would naturally take, and placing them in areas where the birds are most likely to feed or rest, increases your chances of attracting geese to your decoys. 

Another prime hunting location around Mattamuskeet is the expansive fields that surround the wetlands. These open areas are often used by geese for feeding, particularly in the morning and late afternoon when the birds are active. The fields near the lake attract geese looking for grain crops like corn, wheat, or soybeans, making them a hotspot for hunting during the colder months. To hunt effectively in these fields, it’s important to mimic the natural feeding patterns of geese. Field decoys, particularly those that simulate groups of feeding geese, are especially effective. Setting up in areas where the geese are likely to land—especially near the edges of fields or near the transition points between fields and water—can make a big difference. These areas often offer a good vantage point, allowing you to take advantage of the geese’s natural movements as they come in to feed. 

The Lake Mattamuskeet area itself is also a prime location for hunting. The large body of water is home to a wide range of waterfowl, including several species of geese, and it provides excellent opportunities for hunters who prefer to hunt from boats or layout blinds along the shoreline. The lake’s open waters are ideal for setting up floating decoys, simulating a resting or feeding group of geese. When hunting near the water, patience is essential, as geese can be wary of approaching hunters. A slow, steady approach to setting up your decoys, and making sure your blinds are well camouflaged, will help you stay undetected. Again, consider the wind and the flight paths of the birds as you position yourself. A well-timed call and a realistic decoy setup can attract geese from miles away, particularly in the early mornings when they’re heading out to feed. 

In addition to these traditional spots, Mattamuskeet Goose Club offers some less conventional but equally rewarding hunting locations in the surrounding forested areas. Many geese will use the wooded edges of the lake or other wetland areas for cover and rest during their migration. These spots may require a bit more effort to access, but they offer hunters the chance to experience the quiet solitude of a more remote hunting environment. When hunting in these areas, keep an eye out for geese landing in treed areas or on the edges of small ponds and creeks, where they often stop to rest. Like in other areas around Mattamuskeet, camouflage and concealment are key. Using natural materials to blend in with the surroundings and reduce any movement that could alert the birds is crucial for success. 

As with all hunting trips, preparation is key. Checking weather patterns before heading out to Mattamuskeet is important, as cold fronts can shift the behavior of migrating geese. After a cold front, geese tend to fly earlier and may be more active. Be ready to adjust your strategy based on changing conditions, and always keep in mind that safety is the number one priority. Be prepared for cold temperatures and wet conditions, and ensure that your gear is suitable for long hours in the field. 

When hunting at Mattamuskeet Goose Club, understanding the landscape and the habits of the geese will give you the best chance at success. From the marshes and fields to the open waters of Lake Mattamuskeet, the area offers a variety of hunting opportunities to suit different preferences. Whether you’re hunting in the early morning fog or waiting in a concealed blind in the late afternoon, Mattamuskeet promises a rewarding experience for any waterfowl enthusiast. 

To get the latest information on hunting opportunities and regulations at Mattamuskeet Goose Club, check out the Mattamuskeet Goose Club website. For additional tips on waterfowl hunting and gear, visit Ducks Unlimited. To learn more about North Carolina hunting regulations and waterfowl species, take a look at the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission

With the right approach and a little patience, December at Mattamuskeet Goose Club can be the perfect setting for a memorable and successful goose hunt.