Here's some shots from a fun day in my kayak on Lake Miccosukee. I don't think too many (any?) people got after poule d'eau (marsh hens or common gallinule) on that lake. Anyways, I was a fun and productive. They're not the wariest of game birds, but they do make a good meal, grilled, fried or in a gumbo. And, no they do not taste like mud. Cleaning them really well, and a soak in saltwater does wonders for them. They are plentiful, they don't fly very high since they prefer to walk or run over lily pads, they're easy to get after and you don t need a big gun, a 20ga or smaller, with non-toxic shot will do fine. They'd be a great introductory hunt for a newbie hunter or kid. Here in FL, there limits are 15 per day, 45 in possession and the season runs Sept 1 - Nov 9.
The ones I dressed were full of fat.