I just got back from a public land hunt in Arkansas with some buddies. Not a lot of success in the woods but we had a heck of a time.

We're already planning another trip next year. It will probably have to be late season like this and just a long weekend.

We're scatter all over, I'm in Ennis, one guys is near Shreveport and others in Jackson, MS.

We hunted public but would do a day lease somewhere if it was available and reasonable.

Got a long time to plan it, just brainstorming ideas.

One thing your doing wrong on trips like this is not allowing enough time. Elk hunters are the worst. Guys on the east coast have from Friday until the following Sunday to drive out west, make camp, try to get on elk, and then allow time to get back for Monday work. Just about the time they have the elk patterned somewhat its time to pack and go home. You can be one of the best but if your time allotment is not adequate you will struggle to kill birds. Still have a good time but just don't count on high kill rates. I'd allow at least 2 days scouting, then go buy license/tags and hunt 4-5 days. Scout some each day also. Thats public hunting. If your getting a day lease then it all changes.

yea. We know its too tight on time. But with businesses to run and young kids, 3-4 days is about the best we can get done, at least for the next few years.

We'd love to hit kansas or the dakotas for a week but we just don't know how we can make that happen right now.

I wouldn't travel anywhere I have never hunted for 3-4 days hoping to find ducks... your wasting your time. If you can only manage to go for 3-4 days, start saving money now and just do a guided 3 day hunt...Otherwise, good luck.
We go to Arkansas every year for a week long for the past 5 years and we are still learning so many different things...

As everyone else has already said if you can't go for a week or so then going to a new area is a waste of time. Save up money and book a guided hunt.

Eagle lake, tx