Up North Outdoors

Up North Outdoors, Inc. has been guiding spring snow goose hunts since 2001. Over that time, Tracy and Denise Northup shifted their operation's focus almost entirely to Arkansas—and for good reason. The state consistently delivers high success rates and more stable weather conditions than northern locations, making it one of the most reliable destinations for spring snow goose hunting.

The timing and location matter. Arkansas hunts run from February 1 through early March, with peak hunting from the opener through the first weekend in March. Here's what makes it work:

• •Abundant wintering population: Arkansas hosts a large population of snow geese already staged for the season.
• •Continuous waves of migrants: As birds move north from the Gulf Coast and Mexico, new flocks replenish the fields, creating a prolonged hunting window.
• •Stable weather: The southern climate offers milder temperatures than northern states, reducing weather cancellations.

25-Year Track Record: > Over 86,580 snow geese harvested across 25 seasons. 2024 brought 3,824 birds. 2025 is tracking at 2,266 birds so far—solid hunting even in challenging weather years.

• •Full Payment Discount: Save $50 per hunter when your entire party pays in full at booking.

You get a text the afternoon before your hunt with your guide's name and contact info. That evening, your guide calls with the meeting time and location once fields are selected based on bird activity.

Morning of the hunt: - Meet your guide at the designated spot and follow them to the field - Gear loads onto ATV trailers and gets transported to the decoy spread - Blinds and flyers are adjusted based on wind direction - Your guide reviews safety protocols - Hunting begins at shooting time

After the day's hunt, your guide (with help from the party) cleans all harvested geese using the Wing Slinger™ bird cleaner. One wing must stay attached to the meat for legal transport. Bring large coolers packed with ice to keep the breasts cold for your drive home.

• •Groups of 8 hunters: Get a private field with no age restrictions on youth hunters. Well-trained dogs are welcome.

• •Smaller groups: Mixed hunts share a field with others (minimum age 14, no dogs). If you want a private field with fewer than 8 people, you can reserve one by paying for 8 hunters.

Up North provides all blinds, decoys, electronic callers, and field equipment. They prefer to use their gear since it's tested and familiar.

You bring: - Non-toxic shotgun shells: Typically 3-inch 12-gauge, shot size 2 to BB - White or camouflage waterproof clothing: Layers for both cold and warm conditions; white blends well with the spread - Rubber boots or breathable waders: Arkansas rice fields get wet - Extra padding for blinds: Layout boat seats, yoga mats, garden cushions, or foam pads - Food & non-alcoholic drinks: Snacks for the day - Large coolers: For packed birds with ice

Hunts take place near a large Arkansas town with multiple motel and short-term rental options at various price points. Up North doesn't provide meals—hunters bring snacks, lunch, and non-alcoholic drinks for the field. Groups can take midday breaks to cook at lodging or eat at local restaurants; guides typically stay in the field regardless.

Spring snow goose hunts occur during the Conservation Order (established 1999 to manage snow goose overpopulation). This special season allows: - Electronic callers - Unplugged guns - No bag limits

These regulations exist specifically to maximize hunting success and help control the population.

Arkansas Spring Snow Goose Hunting is FREE to licensed hunters: - The Conservation Order permit (SGR - Light Goose Conservation Order) is free - You must register with Arkansas Game & Fish Commission: Call (800) 364-4263 (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) or register online - You must carry a current, valid hunting license from any state

Groups of 8 typically average 10-30 birds per day during their hunt. Success depends on weather, shooting ability, and time spent in the field. Some days are exceptional; others are slow. Honest reporting—they don't sugar-coat it.

Up North publishes honest, daily hunting reports throughout the season. These reports are followed not just by their hunters but by the broader snow goose hunting community across the Midwest. Need to research conditions or success rates before booking? Archives go back to 2008.

Follow their reports and social media: - Facebook: Up North Outdoors, Inc. Facebook Page - Instagram: Regular updates during and outside the season

Contact: - Phone: (563) 380-7122 - Email: [email protected] - Office: Tracy & Denise Northup, 1792 337th St, Decorah, IA 52101 - Payment Issues: Call Denise at (563) 419-3580

• •Prices are per person and do NOT include: Guide tips (industry standard 15-20%), lodging, meals, or hunting licenses.