How much should I lead a duck when shooting?

A: This is a great question that can really only be answered through practice and experimenting with your gun. The distance the duck is from your blind, the direction the duck is flying, and even the type of duck you are shooting at will determine how much you need to lead your shot. Here are a few basics to help get you started. For each of these tips, the number one thing to remember is to follow through each shot. This means you should keep the barrel of your shotgun moving in the direction the duck is flying, even after the shot.

For ducks flying straight toward you and landing in your spread, almost zero lead is required - just blot them out with the bead of your shotgun and fire. Ducks flying high over your head is a tough shot and requires a lead of about 18". For ducks flying straight overhead away from you, aim under the duck and fire.

Ducks passing in front of you is a very common shot, yet it takes lots of practice to master. Close shots, such as shots near your blind and over your decoys, may only require a short lead of 12-18" - imagine one body length of the duck. For longer passing shots that are just past your decoys, you will need a longer lead. Each gun and shotgun shell is different, so practice is really important. The more you practice, the more you learn about your gun and the more you will build your confidence. Find your local skeet range and ask someone in your family to help you practice. You will have a ton of fun and be a better shot this season.

-- Shelby Free, Team Young Guns