Canoe and Kayak “Cast and Blast” Adventures
There’s nothing like the combination of fishing and hunting in the fall, and when you’re in a canoe or kayak, it’s the perfect setup for both. If you’re serious about maximizing your day, a “cast and blast” trip is the way to go. It’s all about efficiency—getting in some quality fishing while staying ready for that duck that’s bound to cross your path.
Start early. The best time for both fish and ducks is right before sunrise. You’ll get a couple of hours when everything is on the move. For fishing, I stick to smallmouth or walleye—both are active during the early mornings. Cast close to the drop-offs where fish are feeding, or work the deeper holes where they like to hide as the sun rises. No need for gimmicks—drop a jig with a soft plastic or live minnow, and work it slow. The fish are lethargic this time of year, so your best bet is to make your presentation as natural as possible. Don’t rush it.
As you float along, always be ready for the ducks. I like to keep my shotgun within easy reach. Mallards, wood ducks, and divers will be cruising through at some point—be alert but don’t overthink it. Set yourself up near backwaters or tight bends in the river where the ducks like to hang. They’ll fly low, so make your shots count.
The beauty of using a canoe or kayak is that you can get into places no one else can. You’re not worried about the noise of a motor or spooking fish. These boats let you approach quietly, and that’s key for both fishing and hunting. Plus, their stability is great for shooting while keeping your fishing rod handy when the bite’s on.
To keep things simple—don’t overcomplicate it. Keep your setup clean. Focus on one or two rods and a shotgun. You don’t need to bring a whole arsenal. When the fishing slows down, switch to the hunt. Keep the pace moving so you’re not wasting time. It’s all about staying fluid and keeping your head in the game.
End your day with a good haul—some fresh fish on the stringer and a couple of birds in the bag—and you’ll know you’ve made the most of your time outdoors. If you plan it right, a cast and blast day isn’t just a good time—it’s a great way to stack your freezer.
NuCanoe: The Perfect Hybrid for “Cast and Blast”
When you’re out on a “cast and blast” trip, having the right boat makes all the difference. That’s why I prefer the NuCanoe. It’s a hybrid that blends the best of both worlds—kayak and canoe—giving you the flexibility to fish and hunt without the usual limitations of either.
The NuCanoe gives you options—whether you’re paddling with a kayak paddle, using a canoe paddle, or even adding a small motor. It’s designed to be customized with a duck blind or swivel seat, letting you set up for whatever your day demands. That versatility is key when you’re balancing both hunting and fishing.
For rivers, I’ll take a boat with a rudder every time. The rudder allows me to drift with the current, keeping the boat steady without constant paddling. It’s a game-changer for hunting, especially when you’re sneaking up on ducks. I’ve drifted right up to birds on the water without them even realizing it until I was ready to take a shot. When fishing, the rudder helps keep the boat aligned for perfect casts without disrupting your drift. Whether I’m working a bank or casting into deeper water, it gives me better control of where I’m positioned.
Bottom line: if you’re looking for a reliable, silent, and versatile boat that does it all for both hunting and fishing, the NuCanoe is a top choice.
Safety Considerations When Shooting from a Boat
Safety is paramount when hunting from a canoe or kayak, especially when using a shotgun. Shooting from a boat introduces unique risks due to the potential instability and the need for quick, controlled movements. Always maintain a stable stance and position before shooting.
Never shoot when the boat is in motion, and always make sure you’re securely seated or kneeling in the boat. When swinging your gun to take a shot, be conscious of your surroundings—especially the direction of your shot. Always aim at the bird and keep the barrel pointed safely away from others and yourself. It’s crucial to respect the “swing” of your gun to avoid hitting the edges of your boat or your paddle partner.
In New York State, it’s illegal to shoot from a moving boat, so ensure your boat is at a standstill or drifting naturally before firing. Always check your surroundings for other boats or hunters to avoid accidents. Additionally, don’t forget to wear proper eye and ear protection, even when out on the water, to safeguard against recoil and potential misfires.
New York State Hunting Regulations: What You Need to Know
Before you embark on your “cast and blast” adventure in New York, make sure you’re familiar with the state’s waterfowl hunting regulations. As of October 1 to May 1, a life jacket is required by law when boating in New York, so make sure you’re wearing one at all times.
When hunting, you’ll also need to have a valid New York State hunting license and a Federal Duck Stamp, both of which are required for waterfowl hunting. Be aware of bag limits and hunting seasons for different species, as they can vary. For example, mallards and wood ducks are common targets, but regulations on the number of birds you can harvest may change throughout the season.
You also need to be aware of the “shooting hours,” which are typically from 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset. Make sure you know the local regulations specific to the Black River Valley or wherever you’re hunting, as some regions may have additional restrictions. For instance, the use of motorized boats in certain areas may be prohibited, and you should always check the current hunting map for restricted zones.
How to Clean and Cook Waterfowl
Once you’ve bagged your ducks, it’s time to clean and prepare them for cooking. Start by plucking the feathers, which can be a bit tedious but is the best method for a cleaner end result. For a quicker process, you can also skin the bird, but this will impact the texture of the meat.
Once cleaned, you can remove the internal organs, taking care to discard them properly. Be sure to save the heart and liver if you’re interested in making a flavorful pâté or sautéed dish. For cooking, waterfowl can be grilled, roasted, or slow-cooked, depending on your preference.
A simple but delicious way to prepare your duck is to season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then roast it in the oven at around 350°F for 25–30 minutes. Duck pairs well with sweet glazes like orange or cherry, or a savory rub with garlic and thyme. For a more rustic dish, consider cooking the bird over an open flame for that smoky flavor.
How to Clean and Cook Fish
Cleaning fish after a day of fishing is relatively straightforward but requires some attention to detail. Start by scaling the fish if necessary, using a scaler or the back of a knife.
Once scaled, cut along the belly and remove the internal organs, then rinse the fish in cold water to clean out any remaining blood. For filleting, make a cut along the backbone and use a sharp knife to separate the fillet from the bones, being careful not to waste any meat. A great way to cook fish is to pan-fry it with a simple coating of flour, salt, and pepper.
Fish like walleye and smallmouth bass have delicate flesh that cooks up beautifully with just a light batter. For an alternative, try grilling the fish, brushing it with butter and lemon, and seasoning with fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Fish can also be baked in a foil packet with garlic, onions, and a drizzle of olive oil for a juicy, flavorful meal.
Staying Safe on the Water: What You Need to Know
Fall means colder water, which increases the risk of hypothermia. Here’s how to stay smart on the water:
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Life jacket: Required by law in New York from October 1 to May 1. Don’t skip it.
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Dress smart: No cotton. Go synthetic to keep warm even if you get wet.
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Know the river: Scout it out first. Learn where the hazards are—rapids, strainers, and rocks. These can mess you up if you’re not paying attention.
Strainers and undercuts are the biggest threats. They can trap you and your boat if you’re not careful. Fish love them, but stay clear unless you’re sure you can handle it.
This Fall, You Can Have It All
Why choose between hunting and fishing this fall when you can do both? The Black River Valley, a scenic lowland region in Lewis County, stretches between the Tug Hill Plateau and the Adirondack foothills, offering the perfect setting for a “cast and blast” adventure.
This unique area is home to the Black River, where anglers and hunters alike can experience the thrill of catching fish while scouting for ducks and geese. Whether you’re paddling through in a canoe or kayak, the combination of fast-moving water and rich wildlife habitat makes for an exciting and productive outing. So get out there, explore this dynamic river valley, and enjoy the best of both worlds this fall.
Original Article By Scott Locorini
Scott Locorini has been a guide and paddle sports instructor for 20 years. He owns and operates Adirondack Exposure and Black River Valley Outdoors based in Old Forge, NY and Lyons Falls, NY. Stop by the Adirondack Exposure store in Old Forge for your kayak fishing needs and installations.
This article has been revised by Daniel O’Neill, an experienced angler and writer, to ensure its continued relevance and accuracy. As a result, it may no longer reflect the original author’s views or intentions.
