So I was talking with my father last night and he was lamenting the lack of ducks on his favorite duck lake. Now mind you, last year was our best year out there ever, so it isn't like it has been declining for years. Nonetheless, this year has been a disappointment on that lake. And from the reports I am hearing it is more the entire area has been spotty at best, not just this particular lake.
So, what's a duck hunter to do? Expand your horizons. Try that lake that you have been meaning to give a shot "some time in the future". If you don't have an area in mind, grab a map, use google maps, talk with your local conservation officer, etc. I know it is easy to get into a rut and just keep going to the same place, but look at it as an adventure or at least a change in scenery.
I have done it a few times this year already, and it has paid dividends. I'm not saying it will every time as I have been skunked, but it is better more often that we would like to admit. Some times the grass is in fact greener on the other side!