In an effort to reduce a long shot I'm having the dog work close. This minimized the amount of flushes drastically and the birds are still kickin my tail. So I'm not completely giving up but I'm going to use the scattergun next time out to leave something in it for my four legged hunting partner. Just a little update, 11 shots taken in 4 trips to field. 0 birds taken in 4 trips to field. Momma's hungry. Dog's tired. Dads frustrated but lovin it.