In this region, another strong waterfowl destination is the Ohio River. Both ducks and geese can be found using the river in abundance, but Pritchert recommends staying mobile. "The key to success on the Ohio River is keeping in mind that you'll likely have to move some to be where the ducks are."

That means regular scouting will be the key to successful hunting. Hunters should focus their attention on the numerous inlets and feeder creeks along the river.

EAST
The eastern portion of the state is blessed with numerous reservoirs and streams that can hold good numbers of waterfowl. The healthy resident goose population around Cave Run Lake has also greatly improved waterfowl hunting in the area. Although most of the lake is closed to goose hunting, the Licking River and many of the surrounding streams, ponds and lakes all reap the benefits of the local birds.

Other potentially good spots in the east are Yatesville, Grayson, and Paintsville lakes. When the mercury drops enough to cover local ponds and streams with ice, these reservoirs -- like their counterparts in the central portion of the state -- will only get better.

Overall, the outlook for Kentucky's waterfowl season is promising. Duck numbers should be similar to or better than last year, and geese numbers should show improvement. But when it comes to hunting waterfowl, the weather will be the deciding factor on how Commonwealth hunters fare this season.