Rondeau Waterfowler’s Growing The Sport
When you think of sport, you think of incredible plays, dazzling dekes, and mind-blowing goals. But in an area filled with such biodiversity, another sport, which has been around since the beginning of time, still remains etched deep within our roots.
Hunting and fishing attracts thousands to enjoy the most original sport. The gem of waterfowl hunting in Chatham-Kent can be found in Rondeau, right on the shores of Lake Erie.
On any given day, if you are out and about, you are likely to run into a few of the nearly 100 volunteers associated with the Rondeau Bay Waterfowler’s Association. They are usually out on the water doing bay clean-ups, blind maintenance, or promoting the sport of hunting and fishing.
The non-profit club operates in the Rondeau Bay area working in conjunction with the Ministry of Natural Resources. They aim to provide controlled public waterfowl hunting, to encourage and promote waterfowl hunting as well as the undertakings designed to aid in the protection and conservation of fish and wildlife and their natural habitats, Assist with Park projects that will aid in the enhancement of the Park environment, and Provide communication to the members regarding the maintenance of the Association and actions taken to achieve its goals. These objectives will help maintain Rondeau Provincial Park as one of the premier public waterfowling opportunities within the province, while enhancing the natural environment, and promoting use by the public.
They are also famous for their annual Rondeau Bay Youth Hunt. The Youth Hunt takes 40 new hunters out with a 1:1 student/mentor ratio, and shows them the beauty of the sport. The children also receive valuable lessons on endangered species and proper hunter regulations,
With that, they have constructed and implemented over 35 blinds throughout Rondeau Bay, which are available for public use upon request. The Association has even created a barrier-free blind.
The barrier-free blind is a duck blind in which has been designed in to fit the needs of those who couldn’t not go out on a regular blind. It’s easy accessibility makes it perfect for those in wheelchairs or for more “experienced” hunters. Its ample design allows for the whole family to come, and a roof protects you against the elements.
The success of this blind has prompted them to create another one!
The total cost of a new, barrier-free duck blind will cost $15 000. This blind will also include a roof, a wheelchair ramp, and many other features that will make it accessible to all. Any donations would be appreciated and accepted at 519-359-7932.
The blind will be erected in honor of avid hunter Jacob Suttor. Jacob died in a car accident in 2014, and in his memory, the association has implemented a 5 year commitment to give one lucky winner via draw at their annual Youth Hunt a $200 package. As well, they have placed a picture of his favorite duck in the associations office and a promise to build a new, barrier-free blind.
This dream needs to become a reality, an with the help of you, it can happen. A donation of any kind would be appreciated and a tax receipt will be given. For more information visit www.rondeauwaterfowlers.com or call 519-359-7932.