"Sea ducks are one of the species for which we have limited information," Masi pointed out. However, she added that more emphasis is now being placed on learning about the various sea duck species.

The Sea Duck Joint Venture is a cooperative effort between the United States, Canada and Mexico to promote conservation of North American sea ducks through greater knowledge and understanding of the 15 species of waterfowl classified as sea ducks that are breeding in North America.

It's generally accepted that populations are in decline for 10 of these species. Sea duck hunters also may see Canada geese, snow geese, Atlantic brant or even the protected white-fronted geese.

Atlantic brant are most abundant along the southern bays westward from the middle of Great South Bay. The ocean side of Long Island, with its extensive barrier islands, is distinctly different from the Long Island Sound side, where depths drop much more quickly.

There is an immense area around Long Island for hunting sea ducks, but there are many restrictions and limitations.

Masi suggested Montauk and Orient and anywhere in between. There's a good chance there will be eiders out there, as well as scoters and long-tailed ducks.

Long-tailed ducks are particularly noted for inhabiting the bays.

The DEC manages several tidal wetlands where it's possible to hunt from shore. Even in these places, a dog or a boat will probably be needed to retrieve downed ducks.

To hunt these areas, you'll need a free three-year access permit, which may be obtained by writing to NYDEC, Attn: Sporting Licenses, Stony Brook, 50 Circle Road, Stony Brook, NY 11790-3409; or log onto the DEC's Web site.

The Suffolk County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department, has six areas that are open to waterfowl hunting or provide hunting access. At Cedar Point County Park in East Hampton there are some beach-shooting opportunities for sea ducks. County residents are given preference, but others are allowed on a space-available basis.

Information is available from the Suffolk County Parks office, P.O. Box 114, West Sayville, NY 11796. Phone (631) 854-4949, or log onto www.co.suffolk.ny.us.

Ocean conditions in January may be treacherous, even in the bays. This is no place for inexperienced hunters or unsafe watercraft.

For information specifically about Cedar Point County Park, call (631) 852-7620. To get there, take Montauk Highway east to Stephen Hands Path in East Hampton, turn north and continue to Old Northwest Road.