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The Wildfowler's Obligations
Always remember that your main quarry, wild geese and ducks, are largely migrant and we have a responsibility to safeguard them and their environment.
Always remember that others judge the sport by your behaviour.
A responsible shot will have third party liability insurance cover, but the best insurance is to follow the BASC Shotgun Safety Code.
Always remember that it is the wildfowler's responsibility to understand the laws relating to his sport; in particular, be able to recognise his quarry and know when and where he may shoot.

Consideration for your Quarry
Always condemn unsporting shooting; ie at poor fliers or out of range birds.
Remember a marsh can be spoilt by continual human disturbance - and you need not be shooting to cause a disturbance.
Always mark wounded quarry and ensure that it is picked up and humanely dispatched as soon as possible. A sharp knock on the head with a suitable heavy stick or priest is most effective.
Always remember that a dog is essential for tide shooting and picking up after dark - keep it under control at all times.

Seasons

Below the high water mark of ordinary Spring Tides 1st September - 20th February incl
Inland 1st September - 31st January incl

Nb. Geese and ducks only after the 31st January


Guns and Cartridges
A double barrelled 12-bore is a suitable all round shotgun. If your fieldcraft is good you will be successful with the standard 70mm cartridge (correctly loaded). Traditionally, wildfowlers prefer a 76mm chambered gun, which enables them to shoot heavier shot more effectively. Big bore guns, 10, 8 and 4-bores, although capable of handling big shot very effectively, can be cumbersome and a burden. Choke only marginally increases your range and is no excuse for attempting out of range shots.
The use of any gun or rifle firing a single bullet, for the purpose of killing wildfowl, is prohibited to BASC members. It is illegal to use a semi-automatic shotgun in the pursuit of wildfowl or game unless it is fitted with a device to prevent the firing of more than 3 cartridges in succession without reloading.

Shot Size
Quarry
Max. Effective Range
No.6

Teal/Wader
40 Yards
No.4/5
Ducks
40 Yards
No.3
Geese
40 Yards
The above are based on lead loads (now illegal in England) so increase the shot size by about one when using non-toxic (eg ITM, Bismuth or Steel)

Equipment
Always carry a waterproof watch, it is essential for judging the state of the tide. Remember, if British Summer Time (BST) is in force, to make the necessary correction to your tide table.
Always carry a waterproof torch but remember torch flashing is ONLY justified in an EMERGENCY.
A pair of binoculars will enhance the day and be useful for identification purposes.
A six foot wading pole will greatly assist you to walk on the marsh and can be used to sound gutters and crossing places.
Always carry a pocket compass (learn how to use it), go straight to your chosen point and note the compass bearing for a safe return route.
Always carry a "pull through", it is all too easy to get mud or snow into the muzzle of your gun.

Planning
When you go onto the foreshore for the first time, go in daylight, ideally with someone who knows the area and can point out marsh boundaries and inherent dangers that occur.
When wildfowling away from home, it is courteous to make contact with the Secretaries of local wildfowling clubs, to ensure you do not inadvertently encroach on private ground.
Always tell someone where you have gone wildfowling and do not forget to tell them you have returned safely.
Make sure you know of local rules and restrictions, particularly those that may be operating in a Nature Reserve Shooting Area.
Always consult tide tables before going onto the marsh and remember that prevailing weather conditions will alter the figures stated. Avoid the more distant parts of the marsh when a big tide is expected.
If you are out all day carry some food and a thermos containing a hot drink.
Wear comfortable, inconspicuous, warm, waterproof clothing. Waders are normally recommended but not always necessary.
Always take a large canvas bag - it is often useful to sit on.
Make sure your equipment is sensibly distributed about you and leaves you freedom of movement.
Make sure you carry your shotgun certificate with you. A game licence is needed for snipe and woodcock.

On the Marsh
Do not disturb the locality or other sportsmen by making a noise, banging car doors when arriving early in the morning or leaving late at night.
Never arrive late, or depart early, and so disturb the shooting of those who have taken the trouble to get into position in good time.
Do not shoot in the immediate vicinity of houses adjoining the shore.
Make sure you are well hidden; camouflage yourself to suit your surroundings.
Try to make your dog comfortable - if you sit on your game bag make sure he has a dry seat.
Look through your gun barrels to make sure they are clear whenever an obstruction may have entered.
Range judging when wildfowling is particulary difficult - as the flight develops don't spoil it by shooting too early at out of range birds.
Send your dog to retrieve birds as they are shot. Dogging the tideline will often recover lost birds.
Take care to recognise legal quarry; if in doubt, don't shoot.
Never leave cartridge cases or unsightly pit holes on the marsh.
Never try to be clever waiting for the last moment to leave the marsh when the incoming tide is approaching. Channels fill quickly and in a very short time they become a torrent.
On leaving the marsh your dog will be cold and wet - consider his needs before your own.
Take care of your quarry - don't waste it.
Pay special attention to cleaning your gun - sand and saltwater will quickly corrode it. Check it for faults that may need rectifying.