How to Picnic, 1387

Getty MS 27, f. 60v (1430-1440)

"The place where the assembly will be held should be a beautiful green meadow, with beautiful trees all around, well separated from one another, and a clear fountain or some running water... And they should spread out towels and cloths everywhere on the green grass, and put out various meats in great abundance according to the power of the lord. And some people should eat sitting, some standing, some resting on their elbows; and some people should drink, some should laugh, perform and tell stories and play, and in short all the festivities and delights." 

Gaston Phoebus, Livre de chasse

Picnic success checklist:
well separated trees
abundant meats
elbow resters
designated drinkers

How to Intoxicate Waterfowl, 1777

Widgeon Duck, 1790

"Way to intoxicate Water-Fowl. First clean, and then steep in clear Water, for full 4 hours, the Roots, Leaves, and Seeds of the herb Bellenge; then boil them in the same Water, till it is almost all evaporated; and after it is cold, throw it in the places where the Fowls frequent, who, eating eagerly of it, will be made so drunk as to be readily taken; but no time must be lost in catching them, for they will soon recover." 

The Complete Vermin-Killer (1777)

No doubt there are also remedies to cure your newly-caught waterfowl of their hangovers.