lab quartering

[wildwings]

The wind direction makes a lot of sense. I also try to avoid hunting with the wind at my back. I guess my real issue is this. While hunting, into the wind, my dog will raise it's head abve the grass/weeds and smell a bird far off. I usually let him lead me to the bird, which might be 1/8 mile away. If the bird isn't running, he will flush it. But then, I'm in the middle of a field, and not sure what way to go. Sometimes, we go to the far fence, and the bird has run out the end.

Sorry to be so long, but here it is. When I can tell the birds a ways off, should I make the dog ignore it, continue quartering, and follow my way of hunting? Or should I forget my hunt plan, and just follow him around? This may just be personal preference, but just wanting some other hunters ideas.

Chuck