Mallards are usually the king at this WMA. The 42 mallards taken last season were second in the state to only Santee Delta WMA West. The total harvest on the area historically contained about 30 to 35 percent mallards. Ring-necked ducks, green-winged teal and wood ducks also stand out in the total harvest. Hunters at Broad River WMA can also expect a shot at widgeon and black ducks.

To determine more about the duck hunts at Broad River WMA, contact the Region 2 office of SCDNR in Columbia at (803-734-3886).

YOUTH HUNTS
The main youth hunt in the duck-hunting lottery is held at Donnelley WMA near Green Pond in Colleton County. The WMA routinely hosts close to 70 youngsters that have maintained about a three-duck-per-person average over the last two seasons. Green-winged teal and wood ducks comprise about two thirds of the harvest. The next generation of waterfowlers usually bag a reasonable number of blue-winged teal, shovelers and ring-necked ducks. For more information about youth hunts at Donnelley WMA, contact SCDNR at (843) 844-8957.

In addition to having a youth hunt during the Youth Waterfowl Day, a new trend is that WMAs are starting to have youth-only hunts during the regular duck season. Most have been held around Christmas when the kids are out of school. Last season, Santee Coastal Reserve, Broad River, Bonneau Ferry and Clemson WMAs all had hunts. Keep an eye out on the application if you are interested in applying for one these hunts.

Applications are available each season beginning in late September. Application deadline is normally in late October, with successful hunters often notified by the beginning of November. You can download an application at SCDNR's Web site at www.dnr.sc.gov, pick one up at a regional office or call SCDNR Columbia office at (803) 734-3886. Hunts are $50 per hunter.

Successfully drawn hunters will need a valid state hunting license, a WMA permit, HIP permit and a state and federal duck stamp.