before I had access to my OWN dog, I hunted without a dog. For a couple years I hunted in rivers, ponds and did some jump shooting as well. A few things to think about. Obviously, stay shallow. Hunt slow current in rivers. So birds simply don't float down stream. Another option is set up for pass shooting on a island point or something similar to that, In between food and water. Jump shooting is also another great way to hunt without a dog. And most importantly. Don't go shoot crazy! If you shoot a duck or two. Stop shooting and recover the birds whom you've just taken. I have seen it a hundred times, people concerned with numbers, instead of the experience! Take your time, have FUN! And shoot some ducks!