Wildfowling is a wonderful sport, but not always the most productive in terms of action or shooting opportunities compared with other fieldsports. Making the most of the chances presented is…
Tom Sykes
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Shooting crows – what works and what doesn’t
There are many different opinions about what will and won’t work when it comes to shooting crows. Over the years, I have taken a lot of these with a pinch…
Ammunition for wildfowlers
Before we start, I should point out that cartridge choice is personal preference and you need to do your research to find one that suits your needs, gun and quarry.…
I want to become a loader. Should I do a course?
I have loaded for some years, and although competent, I decided it was time to get a qualification in the subject. Why is a loading course a good idea? One…
Taking a closer look at shot cameras and a ShotKam
I thought I would take a closer look at gun cameras and explain why I love having my ShotKam strapped to my musket. As many readers will be aware, I…
When is the best time to shoot corvids?
I know this has nothing to do with pigeon shooting but I wondered if you could tell me the best way to decoy crows from a hide?
Four of the best duck calls
I don’t often leave the house during the wildfowling season without my trusty duck calls around my neck. I am a great believer in the use of calls on the…
Tom Sykes goes crow shooting
I always try to keep my farmers happy and control their vermin to the best of my ability. Doing this can pay off in numerous ways – other than job…
Shotgun cartridges for geese reviewed
A wild goose chase can be exactly what it says on the tin, so when you get the birds in range you want the confidence that you are packing sufficient power to get…
Teal and Mallard on the Foreshore
Wildfowling on the foreshore, Tom and Goose head out to shoot some mallard and teal.
Teal and Mallard on the Foreshore
Wildfowling on the foreshore, Tom and Goose head out to shoot some mallard and teal.
Cartridges for duck shooting
Cartridge choice can create an interesting debate in all areas of shooting. From manufacturer and loads through to the size of cartridge and shot you opt for, there is a lot to consider. Ultimately, however, your…
Early season fowling
Having shot my local marshes for numerous years, I have a good understanding of where the best chances lie, depending on the time of year and weather conditions. I decided…
Ducks on an early morning flight
Wildfowling expert Tom Sykes gives an early morning view from the marsh.
Crow shooting with a Shotkam
Back in March I caught up with my good friend, Jack Depledge who is also a contributor of Sporting Gun, who writes about college life for young keepers. Jack and I…
How to use crow decoys for corvid control
The problem with decoys at the end of the season around these parts is finding somewhere to go. The crows haven’t been pressured into feeding anywhere in particular due to the…
How to make wigeon tufts for wildfowling decoys
Over the years I have made numerous wildfowling decoys, but one of my favourite creations are my homemade wigeon tufts. These are a simple invention that are most suited for…
Duck Stalking
In this video I’m talking about the joys of creek crawling as I go duck stalking for the pot while they lie up in back channels and gutters. Stalking ducks…
Goose Calling
Pinkfoot Goose Pinkfoot calling is normally the easiest of the three main species to master. I use a Solway pinkfoot call, as I find it really easy to use and…
Duck Calling
In this video I’m concentrating on duck calling. I believe calling can make a difference to the bag if the skill is mastered. It isn’t very often that I head…