I think the "old timers" used to think that ducks and geese couldn't see very well at night. My dad thought so.
So, the logic was that you needed to go out, set out the decoys in the dark and wait for first light because low-and-behold here come the ducks!
Ducks and geese can see very well at night.
I arrive at my hunting area right about shooting time. That way I can tell where other hunters are set up, and avoid them. I motor out, locate a food source where I think they'll be that day and set-up. I do quite well with that procedure so I'm not going to change.
Good luck with your hunting.

critch