Realtree introduced Max 1 years ago and followed it up with Max 4 and the popular Max 5.

Duck Hunters were able to blend in to the multi-terrains and gather a full limit of birds to fill their pots and skillets each fall and winter.  But What happened to Max 2,3 and now 6?   Duck Hunters can only be left to fill in the blanks with some “unsubstantiated” theories. 

We HEARD that there’s a cabin deep in the woods surrounded by snow where “knowledgeable & wise” men gather to ponder NEW camo patterns.  Only a select group of hunters are invited to this secret weekend!  We’ve been told that spicy Boudin and Whiskey from a private still may be involved but we certainly cannot confirm or deny these claims!

All we know is that something happens at this secluded cabin and we have new camo patterns appear months later—like a  birthing process of sorts!  The success of these patterns in fields across America depends on who brought the food and who supplied the spirits.

One year we heard about the pattern Widowmaker from a vendor and Lord only knows what type of boudin produced that name, but we surmise it was NOT good!!  The “wise and knowledgeable” men did NOT have a great weekend and decided to include a younger generation the following year with stronger stomachs and younger spouses.

But lets not get side-tracked. What’s up with Max 2,3 and 6?  There has to be a story behind the scenes and we at TXFowlers have decided to put a plant inside the cabin this year.

We will get to the bottom of this if it’s the last thing we do.  Our customers and friends deserve to know the truth in an age where conspiracy theories and misinformation abound.  Our new “plant” will be fully stocked with boudin, crawfish, frog legs, chicken and dumplings and the all powerful GUMBO!  There will be no need for waterboarding the truth out of these guys, we will have pecan pie!

Stay Tuned

Mama Deb is on the job

Contrary to what you may have initially thought, a dreary, drizzly forecast can actually be a good thing. In fact, some of the best days of hunting are in wet conditions. With a bit of extra planning, you can enjoy your most successful hunt yet in the rain. However, not all rain is created equal. There is a fine line between a fun day splashing around in the rain and too much rani – and at a certain point, it will become unsafe out there. Being able to distinguish between these circumstances is part of what separates the best hunters from the rest.

In this article, we will help you gain an understanding of whether or not duck hunting is good in the rain – and what the ideal conditions for hunting ducks actually are. We’ll also provide you with some important tips for duck hunting in the rain. Let’s get right into the pros and cons of rainy day duck hunting.

IS DUCK HUNTING GOOD IN THE RAIN?

So, is duck hunting good in the rain? If you ask a group of seasoned hunters, you may get different answers. Some people claim that duck hunting isn’t good in the rain – but they’ve never even tried! They check their forecast and call it quits because they want to stay warm and dry at home. On the other hand, those who are willing to brave the elements say that rainy days actually create the perfect conditions for helping you meet your bird limits. To accurately answer this question, we’re going to compare the advantages and disadvantages of duck hunting in the rain.

ADVANTAGES OF DUCK HUNTING IN THE RAIN

Spoiler alert: the advantages of duck hunting in the rain outweigh the drawbacks. Here are all the reasons we love duck hunting in rainy conditions:

• Less competition – As we mentioned earlier, some hunters refuse to even try hunting in the rain. Their loss! Because these fairweather (pun intended) hunters are staying home, you’ll have more ducks to yourself. This makes for an easier hunt as there is less noise and commotion near your hunting location.
• Better camouflaging – The rain makes it easier for you to remain undetected by ducks while in your blind on the ground. The birds can’t see as well in the rain, allowing for easier camouflaging.
• Ducks fly lower – While ducks don’t necessarily seek shelter from the rain (at least, not usually), they do fly lower during the rain. And they are more likely to land and sit still in rainy conditions than in sunny conditions.

DRAWBACKS TO DUCK HUNTING IN THE RAIN

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows when it comes to duck hunting in the rain. There are a few reasons some people are deterred from hunting in the rain. However, as you’ll soon learn, these aren’t really drawbacks once you start to break them down.

• It’s uncomfortable and wet – In our opinion, this is a fake concern. Why? Because with all the duck hunting essentials, you’ll stay warm and dry no matter what conditions you’re hunting in. A little rain is no match for a quality jacket and some waders. And even if you do get a little bit wet – that never hurt anybody!
• The ducks are nowhere to be found – It’s true that an outright downpour is not an ideal hunting condition. If the weather is extremely rainy and windy, the only thing ducks are going to do is seek immediate shelter. You won’t have droves of birds flying in to settle around your decoys. However, this is only the case with extreme weather. More on that in the next section.

As you can see, there are really only two drawbacks to hunting ducks in the rain – and one of these is a non-issue. The other drawback only applies to extreme rain – not a drizzle or light rain.

DUCK HUNTING IN THE RAIN IS GOOD – BUT…

All things considered, the answer to the question – is duck hunting good in the rain? – is a resounding yes. With that said, it is important that we touch on a few caveats. First and foremost, it is important to be able to distinguish between light rain and a heavy downpour. As we said earlier, the extent to which it is raining will dictate whether or not you should hunt.

Use your best judgment. If you are dealing with 30 MPH winds and are expecting 6-12” of rain, you may want to stay home. The same goes for storms. If you hear thunder or see lightning, or are under a tornado watch, it’s probably best to stay home.

But if conditions are simply a bit dreary and light showers are expected throughout the day, you can safely hunt – and you may just find that these conditions are your new favorite to hunt in! However, we want to leave you with a few tips for your next hunt in the rain.

QUICK TIPS FOR DUCK HUNTING IN THE RAIN

Keep in mind that duck hunting in the rain can be downright miserable under the wrong circumstances. But with these tips in mind, you’ll be prepared for a fun, successful, and most importantly, safe/comfortable day of duck hunting in the rain. Let’s start by explaining how to factor the weather in when planning your hunt.

CAREFULLY PLAN OUT YOUR HUNT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE WEATHER

Being able to get inside the mind of a duck and accurately predict how it will behave separates the best hunters from the rest. And when it comes to rainy and windy conditions, you need to know what to expect. This will allow you to prepare your decoys accordingly and increase your chances of packing up your blind and heading home with a bag full of birds.

First and foremost, remember that birds fly into the wind. This is something that will not change in the rain – so make sure you set your decoys and your blind position accordingly. However, it is important to note that the wind can change directions more frequently and unpredictably during extreme weather. Keep track of how the wind is acting and adjust your position/decoys accordingly throughout the day as necessary.

And during rainy and cold conditions, you’ll always want to prepare a blind directly on the ground. This will help you keep warm. You’ll also want to have the proper clothing – but more on that in the next tip.

Finally, take the time to gain an understanding of ducks’ weather-driven migration patterns. During rainy conditions, ducks are more likely to settle on a small pond or along a stream. They’ll gravitate towards locations that offer some degree of protection from the rain – such as a line of trees or some bushes. You want to be sure you are in a position to shoot into these areas and have a clear sight line of the birds.

DRESS FOR SUCCESS: WEAR THESE ESSENTIALS FOR A COMFORTABLE EXPERIENCE

When it comes to cold, rainy, dreary hunting conditions, your best defense against the elements is your wardrobe. To stay both warm and dry, you need to know what to wear. There are a few essentials we recommend you have before venturing out in the rain:

• Waders: waterfowl waders are perhaps the most important piece of clothing you can have as a duck hunter – especially for rainy days. If it’s cold and wet, stick with breathable insulated waders. If it’s a bit warmer out, but still raining, uninsulated hunting waders are the better choice. You may want to have both in your wardrobe so you’re prepared for any conditions.
• Rain jacket: This one is pretty obvious – but you’re going to want a waterfowl jacket to keep yourself dry. These offer protection from the rain of course. But, they also offer protection from being spotted by the birds – keeping you camouflaged and hidden so you can take your shot.

• Waterproof boots: if it’s raining, then the ground is going to be wet. The last thing you want is soaking wet feet as you walk through puddles all day. And if you have to enter the water to grab your birds, you’re going to need some waterproof boots anyways!

• Down vest: While you need to stay dry, you need to stay warm, too. A proper waterfowl vest is an essential to keep your core insulated without restricting movement to your arms. After all, you still need to be able to take that shot!

There are other things you can consider adding to your duck hunting wardrobe – such as a hat or balaclava (great for protection from wind and rain) – but these are the must-haves for hunting in the rain. Grab them today at Texas Fowlers for the best prices, selection, and service in the entire waterfowl industry!

IS DUCK HUNTING GOOD IN THE RAIN? FINAL THOUGHTS

So, you know now that duck hunting is good in the rain. Not only will your competition be wasting a lazy day at home, but the birds are going to be flying lower and looking for a place to weather the storm. And, their vision will be impaired – presenting you with more opportunities to come home with a full bag than ever before!

As long as you deem the conditions to be safe – and not too extreme – you can have a successful, comfortable day of hunting. Just follow the tips above and never worry about mother nature putting a pin in your plans again!

The morning vs mid-day vs evening debate is one of the most hotly contested among duck hunters. That’s why today, we’re going to weigh all sides of the argument to present you with our unbiased take. You’ll learn if there really is the best time of day to duck hunt – and if so, whether it is in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Let’s get right into the debate!

IS THERE REALLY A BEST TIME OF DAY TO DUCK HUNT?

Most duck hunters have their personal preferences as to when the best time to hunt ducks is. But is there really any difference in conditions from morning to afternoon to evening? As a matter of fact, there are some advantages that different times of day have over others.

For example – you have more hours to hunt in the morning compared to the evening. However, those who prefer evening hunts will point to the lack of energy and focus you have if you wake up at 3 am. Meanwhile, those who prefer to hunt in the evening claim that the afternoon winds present the perfect conditions to push birds down into your decoys for a rest.

As you can imagine, though, you may also experience certain disadvantages depending on what time of day you hunt. We’ll be sure to cover those as well as we make our way through this debate so you have the full picture.

But before we get into the pros and cons of hunting ducks at different times of day, we want to provide you with a few key pieces of information. First and foremost, you must be aware of legal shooting hours in your specific region. Most of the time, you cannot hunt ducks until it is light outside. This means you are going to be limited to certain hours of the day. With that said, let’s get into the morning vs afternoon vs evening debate.

SO, IS DUCK HUNTING BETTER IN THE MORNING OR EVENING?

So, is duck hunting better in the morning or evening? Or does the afternoon shift take the cake? The fact of the matter is that you can enjoy a successful hunt in the morning, afternoon, and evening. It really just comes down to your unique preferences.

To help you plan out your next hunting time, we’ll explain the advantages each time of day offers. Stick around to the very end and we’ll give you our personal opinion on when you should hunt. Let’s kick things off by making a case for the morning shift in your duck blind:

ADVANTAGES OF DUCK HUNTING IN THE MORNING

There is a strong case for the morning shift as the premier time of day for hunting. Here’s why:

• More hunting hours – The earlier you start in the day, the longer you’ll have to hunt. Getting to your blind at 4 am and preparing your decoys, then patiently waiting for legal shooting hours is your best bet to reach your bird limit that day.
• Feeding at sunrise – One of the main feeding times for ducks and other waterfowl is at first light. They’ll leave their roosts and head to a water source to locate food – and you’ll be there waiting to say good morning to them!
• You can still make use of the rest of your day – In favorable conditions and with a bit of luck, you can reach your limit in the first few hours of the day by starting at first light. That means you can still make use of your afternoon and evening. And if you’ve got a job to get to, you can still hunt in the mornings on weekdays without calling out.
• Adjust your blind/decoys throughout the day – If you start in the morning, you can afford to make changes to your blind location/decoy set up as the day goes on. If you are hunting in the afternoon or evening, however, you won’t have the time to make changes on the fly.

All things considered, hunting in the morning is a great choice. There are a few drawbacks, however. First and foremost, you’re going to have to get up early. You need to have your entire blind and decoy strategy in place before first light. If you’re not a morning person, this may be worth noting.

It’s also important to note that you need a good breeze to guide ducks to your shooting zone. In the mornings, you may not get the strong wings you need for this. Furthermore, the morning sun can really affect your vision if conditions are just right (or, perhaps wrong).

ADVANTAGES OF DUCK HUNTING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY

We’re not going to lie – we don’t really encourage many hunters to go out in the middle of the day. In our opinion, the debate is really between mornings vs evening. Unless, of course, this is your only option. If you can’t bring yourself to wake up early, and you need to be home for an early dinner, here are the benefits you’ll enjoy of your mid-day hunt:

• Winds pick up in the afternoons – Remember that wind factor we were just discussing? Well, winds tend to pick up as the day goes on, tapering off as the sun goes down. That means you’ll catch those later divers that don’t even start flying until late morning or early afternoon.
• Perfect conditions for jump-shooting wood ducks – If you’re after wood ducks or geese, you’ll find that the afternoon shift presents the ideal conditions for jump-shooting. As ducks finish their morning meal and are preparing to head out until dinner, you can take your shot.

ADVANTAGES OF DUCK HUNTING IN THE EVENING

When it comes to duck hunting in the evening, you’ll find all sorts of advocates claiming that it’s the ideal time. Here’s why:

• Sleep in – Perhaps the most obvious benefit of hunting in the evening is that you get to sleep in, enjoy a nice breakfast, get some work done around the house, and still get out to set up your blind and decoys before the birds flock in. You’ll be fully alert and firing on all cylinders.
• Feeding in the evening – As the sun goes down and temperatures drop, birds will flock back to their water for one last feeding for the day before heading to the roost. This is where you can make a killing as a hunter – literally. Once they’re done feeding they’ll head out for the evening – presenting another great opportunity.

The biggest drawback to hunting ducks in the evening is that your window for legal shooting time is going to be small. Sometimes, you may only have a 15-minute period from when ducks are flying into your shooting zone to the point when you can no longer legally shoot. It sucks spending all that time preparing just to come up empty-handed – but that is the reality for many evening duck hunters.

THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO DUCK HUNT: OUR VERDICT

All this considered, you’re probably starting to lean towards one particular time of day as the best choice for you. As we mentioned, it will come down to personal preference. And, there are many other factors to consider as well. You should also take into account the weather, the time of year, and other conditions.

With that said, our preferred time of day to hunt is in the morning. It presents the best opportunity to fill your bag and meet your limit. However, there is really no bad time to hunt!

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO DUCK HUNT

Want to learn more about what it takes for a successful hunt? Our beginner’s guide on how to start duck hunting is an amazing introductory resource. We also have an essential duck hunting gear list you should check out so you can be prepared for any conditions.

No matter what time of day you decide to hunt, be sure you have all the duck hunting gear you need for a successful, comfortable, and most importantly, safe hunt. At Texas Fowlers, we’ve got everything you need at the best prices online. From waterfowl jackets to duck hunting bibs, big and tall waders, and even other duck hunting accessories or duck hunting bags. Experience all we have to offer and shop today.

You’ll learn why it’s so important to have all your essentials loaded up before heading out. Most importantly, by the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll know your next steps and where to start shopping for gear. Ready to get started? Let’s begin.

WHY HAVING THE DUCK HUNTING ESSENTIALS IS SO IMPORTANT

First things first – why do the duck hunting essentials matter so much? Can’t you just grab your gun and ammo, dress warm, and head out on your trip? Trust us – that is a recipe for disaster. You’ll end up cold, wet, and likely empty-handed unless you carefully plan out your gear list. Because, unlike some types of birds you’re used to hunting, you’re going to have to get a bit wet and dirty during duck season.

And, the cruel reality is that the worse the weather is, the better conditions for duck hunters like yourself. The colder, the wetter, the more miserable – the higher your chances of a successful hunt are.

But don’t let this deter you – with the proper gear, you won’t even feel the weather. You’ll be comfortable and warm, and too busy collecting your birds to notice anyway. Now, with all that said – let’s share our duck hunting gear list so you can get ready for that first trip and enjoy it in all its glory.

DUCK HUNTING GEAR LIST: A LIST OF MUST-HAVE DUCK HUNTING GEAR

There are three basic categories we’re going to go over in our list of must-have duck hunting gear: the obvious (guns, ammo, license), your clothing (what to wear duck hunting), and the blind bag essentials – where you’ll spend most of your time shopping. We’re not going to hold you in suspense any longer – here are the essentials for that first duck hunt:

THE OBVIOUS DUCK HUNTING ESSENTIALS

This one should go without saying, but we’re going to cover the most obvious duck hunting essentials first:

• The Shotgun & Shells
• Your Hunting License

If you don’t already have your shotgun picked out, we recommend a twelve-gauge or twenty-gauge shotgun. These are the preferred choice among duck hunters. And, in terms of ammunition, stick with non-toxic shells. This is a requirement under the federal fish and game department. So, stick with steel, bismuth, tungsten alloy, etc.

Oh – and don’t forget your hunting license. The last thing you want is to come across a warden empty-handed. Along with your valid hunting license, you should be sure you have a state duck stamp and a HIP (harvest information stamp) if your state requires these pieces of information – most do. With all this out of the way, let’s move on to one of the most important questions we see new duck hunters asking: what to wear duck hunting.

WHAT TO WEAR DUCK HUNTING: CONSIDER THE ELEMENTS

Ready to learn what to wear duck hunting? The answer will depend on the conditions you’re hunting in, as you can probably imagine. This is not a one size fits all answer. Those who are hunting in the south may not need as much protection from the cold as those hunting up north. Similarly, some days will be warmer than others – and you may want a pair of uninsulated waders for those warmer days.

With that said, every duck hunter should have a few basic types of waterfowl clothing in their arsenal for when the time comes. This includes:

BASE LAYERS & OUTER LAYERS

The foundation of your hunting outfit will call for the proper base layers and outer layers. Remember, you’re going to be in cold, dreary conditions. So, you need to trap in that vital warmth. Thus, your base layers are one of the most important elements of your outfit. We love merino wool and Capilene – these are our preferred materials for base layers.

When it comes to your outer layers, you have a few more options. One thing to keep in mind is that neither your base layers nor your outer layers should be cotton. Cotton is known for absorbing moisture and will weigh you down and add a chill factor. When in doubt, stick with a quality waterfowl hoodie andwaterfowl jacket as your outer layer along with some waterfowl pants. These are specially designed for the harsh elements you’ll face. On the lower half, you can go with a pair of duck hunting bibs. These are like suspenders, but for waterfowl hunting in particular. But, these aren’t the most important outer layer of your outfit – waders are.

WADERS

Along with your base layers and outer layers, you need a quality pair ofwaterfowl waders. As the name suggests, these provide waterproof protection while you wade in and out of the water. Whether it’s setting your decoys or collecting your birds, you’re going to want a pair that keeps you warm, comfortable, and most importantly, dry.

There are so many different types out there to choose from – so don’t take this decision lightly. Some come up to your hips while others reach as high as your chest. Some are neoprene while some are more breathable. Picking the right pair comes down to how much water you need to wade through, and how cold that water is. Keep in mind that if your hunting location is not one where you’ll be wading in and out of the water, these are not necessary.

HEADWEAR & GLASSES

You’ve got to think about protecting your head and face from the cold as well – that’s where choosing the proper headwear comes in. On warmer, sunny days a standard cap is a great choice. But for those colder outings, you’ll want something to protect your face – such as a balaclava. These keep your forehead, neck, cheeks, and chin protected from cold, wet, windy weather.

The only thing exposed? Your eyes – which is why you need to grab a quality pair of glasses as well. This will allow you to keep your eyes focused on the prize without watering. Better yet, some glasses will help you see a better outline of the shooting profile of an incoming bird.

GLOVES

One final piece of clothing to consider are your waterfowl gloves. These will keep your hands warm so you can load and fire your gun in confidence. Don’t let a biting wind ruin your day outside. Not only that – but waterproof, camouflaged hunting gloves will help disguise you from your target.

MUST-HAVE DUCK HUNTING GEAR IN YOUR BLIND BAG:

Now that we’ve covered what to wear duck hunting, we’re going to talk about the must-have duck hunting gear in your blind bag. This is basically everything else you need for a productive, safe, and fun day outdoors. In this section, we’ll cover everything from snacks to decoys.

Before we get into the list, we want to talk about the importance of selecting a quality duck hunting blind bag. Choose one that is durable enough to withstand harsh conditions. These are an investment that you want to get the most out of. While you may pay more for a quality bag, you’ll save money in the long run by getting more life out of it. And most importantly, it will enhance your time out hunting.

DECOYS

If you’re new to hunting ducks or other waterfowl, decoys are going to be your new best friend. Why? Because you can trick your prey into coming down and hanging out with these fake decoys. You place these decoys out in a nearby body of water or open field. When real ducks fly overhead, they’ll see their plastic or rubber friends hanging out below and swoop down to check things out. This presents a window for you to take your shot.

There is much more that goes into decoy strategy – but that’s a conversation for another day. We talk a little bit about that in our guide to duck hunting for beginners if you’d like to learn more. Just be sure you’ve filled your blind bag with decoys and organized them properly so you can enjoy an easy setup in the morning.

DUCK CALLS

Along with your decoys, your duck hunting calls are going to be one of the most important considerations for your blind bag. There are a wide array of duck call strategies out there – and an even wider array of duck call types.

Picking the right one for your excursion requires you to have an in-depth understanding of the duck species in your region. You will likely need a few different duck calls on hand just to be safe. Better yet, prepare a call lanyard to neatly organize all your calls in one place. The last thing you want is to scare away potential prey by rustling around your bag for the right call.

FLASHLIGHT OR HEADLAMP

Trust us – there is nothing quite as frustrating as trying to set up your blind and decoys in the dark. Your phone light isn’t going to cut it. A flashlight is better, but a headlamp is best. This will allow you to get the blind set up hands-free – seeing everything you need to see. This is something you should always double-check you have in the bag before heading out.

HANDWARMERS

You’re not going to spend the entirety of your day holding your gun. During that in-between time, you can get your hands warmed up a bit with hand warmers. These are great for those extra cold days where you may struggle with numb hands. Numb hands will prevent you from loading your gun, grabbing your call, or even pulling the trigger with ease.

THERMOS & SNACKS

Your thermos and snacks are another important consideration for your blind bag. Let’s face it – you’re going to get tired throughout the day. You can start a fire or bust out a stove if you have one, whip up a pot of coffee, and keep it warm in your thermos. This will also keep you awake and attentive throughout the day. And, you should pack some easy snacks to keep you filled throughout the day. This can be as simple as a bag of chips, a protein bar, and some candy. Whatever it is you like to snack on, grab it on your way out the door or better yet – put it in your blind bag the night before.

WALKIE TALKIES

Are you hunting in a group? Walkie-talkies are definitely going to be on your duck hunting gear list if so. You don’t want to yell across the valley to your crew and scare away birds. Being able to quickly and quietly contact your group – or other groups nearby – is a huge advantage. You’ll be able to gain insights into what other groups are seeing around the area. It also makes it far easier to coordinate lunch or head home. More than that, this will add an element of safety to your outing.

BINOCULARS

Even if you’ve got 20/20 vision – a good pair of binoculars will help you track wounded birds or monitor your dog as they chase down birds. And in our opinion, much of the fun when hunting waterfowl is taking it all in. Binoculars are great for helping you watch other wildlife while you kill time.

GAME TOTE OR BAG

One of the final duck hunting essentials to add to your blind bag is a game tote or bag. This is what you’ll carry your birds in after the hunt. While you really can’t go wrong with either a game tote or bag, we do see the average duck hunter opt for a game tote. These take up limited space and make it easy to take quality Instagram photos of your haul!

WHERE CAN I FIND THE DUCK HUNTING ESSENTIALS?

The list of must-have duck hunting gear above covers most of your necessities for an upcoming duck hunt. However, there may be a few other pieces of gear worth adding to your blind bag. These include plastic bags and freezer paper/tape for cleaning your birds on the spot – along with a very sharp knife. You may also want to invest in a layout blind/bed. These are great for concealment and comfort.

With all this said, though, you’re just about ready to start shopping for your duck hunting essentials. But where should that journey begin? At Texas Fowlers, we have everything you need to hunt ducks in style and comfort. From ammunition to waterproof clothing, decoys, blind bags, and more. Shop now and enjoy waterfowl hunting as it was intended!

WRAPPING UP OUR DUCK HUNTING ESSENTIAL GEAR LIST

That concludes our must-have duck hunting gear list. You know what to wear duck hunting as well as what supplies and gear will make for a more comfortable, successful hunt. In summary, here are the things you’ll need for a successful hunt:

1. The obvious essentials: gun, shells, license, and stamps
2. The right attire: warm base layers and waterproof outer layers. Consider bibs, waders, face coverings, boots, gloves, and glasses.
3. The bling bag essentials: decoys, calls, light, snacks, radios, binoculars, and a game tote.

While you may find the need to add other duck hunting essentials over time, this will get you started on the right foot. Head over to Texas Fowlers and prepare for the big day!

From securing a hunting license to picking a location, packing your blind bag, and setting up your decoys – and so, so much more. Enough with the pleasantries – let’s explain what you’ll learn in our duck hunting for beginners guide.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN OUR DUCK HUNTING FOR BEGINNERS GUIDE

When we say that we’re going to teach you everything you need to get started hunting ducks we mean it. This is a complete guide on how to start duck hunting. But, we’re going to keep things as concise as possible – we know your time is valuable. Here is a sneak peek into what you’ll learn in this short article:

• When duck hunting season is
• What gun/ammunition is best for hunting ducks
• What gear you’ll need for your first outing
• How to start duck hunting (decoy strategy & hunter location)
• Our top duck hunting tips for beginners

Let’s get started with some basic information on duck hunting for beginners.

HOW TO START DUCK HUNTING: STEP BY STEP

Getting started with waterfowl hunting is not difficult. In fact, there are only a few steps you need to follow to enjoy a successful first duck hunt. And we’re going to walk you through them – followed by some additional tips that most duck hunters wish they had known sooner. Let’s start with the first step – getting your license.

STEP 1) GET YOUR HUNTING LICENSE

As with all types of hunting, ducks are heavily regulated. As such, your first step is securing the necessary licenses and permits for duck hunters.

This step is pretty universal no matter where you live. But, there are obviously varying approaches to getting a hunting license among individual states and provinces. So, you’ll need to research the necessary steps in your specific state and county. And it is important that you understand the limitations and regulations surrounding waterfowl hunting in your respective location.

STEP 2) PREPARE YOUR GEAR & GUN

First things first – you need to get all your hunting gear lined up. If you’ve hunted other birds before, you know that calls and decoys are an essential part of your arsenal. But if you’re new to bird hunting – or hunting in general – you may not know where to start. Fortunately, we recently wrote a complete must-have duck hunting gear list. We highly encourage you to read through that guide. You’ll learn:

• What clothing you need (waterproof clothing and warm layers)
• The type of gun/shells you need (and a reminder to bring your license and any necessary stamps)
• How to pack a blind bag for success (decoys, calls, headlamps, snacks, radios, binoculars, a game tote, harvesting tools, and more)

There’s no doubt about it – getting all this gear at once can be overwhelming. But the good news is, much of this gear you’ll only purchase once as a hunter – unless you want to upgrade later on to something bigger/better. And, you can get most of the gear pretty cheap – especially when you find the right hunting goods store. More on that later. For now, let’s move on to the next step in how to start duck hunting – picking your gun.

Most duck hunters prefer a 12 gauge or 20 gauge shotgun. If you’re a beginner duck hunter, stick with the semi-automatic 12 gauge (if permissible). If you really want to get started on the right foot, add a choke to your shotgun. This will help you optimize your shot pattern depending on where you hunt. For example, you can create a tight shot pattern for a longer distance shot or a shorter spread for those close shots.

In terms of the ammunition you use, smaller and faster birds will call for a three or four-shot. If you’re planning on hunting larger birds like mallards, you can use a bigger pellet for greater knockdown power – like a two-shot. Oh, and you must find nontoxic shells. This is required federally.

STEP 3) RALLY SOME EXPERIENCED FRIENDS

Chances are if you’re looking to start duck hunting, you probably already have a friend – if not a group of friends – that hunts ducks. Maybe you’re seeing how much fun your friends have when they go out hunting and you’re ready to join them.

This is the best way to get started with any type of hunting – finding an experienced friend or mentor that can show you the ropes. You can only learn so much by reading blog posts and watching YouTube videos. The real-world expertise a seasoned veteran can lend you is invaluable – so if you don’t already have friends that duck hunt, it’s time to find some!

STEP 4) FIND YOUR HUNTING GROUNDS

Once you’ve got a group ready to go, you need to find a location. Maybe your friends will have one in mind already. But if not, you can try scouting a location yourself. This is an art in itself – because finding really good locations isn’t easy.

Look for fields and waterways where ducks congregate – ideally, where they just hang around or feed. You may also find roosts – an area where ducks settle down for the evening to sleep. There are also areas of high duck traffic where you can hunt. These are the flyover zones ducks commonly use.

Once you have an idea of where might be a good place to hunt, you have to determine if you’re allowed to hunt there. The likelihood of that land belonging to someone else is really high. Fortunately, those with land may let you hunt there. They get this inquiry all the time. See if you have a mutual friend or acquaintance that can help make the connection. If not, just be polite and ask – and make it worth their while. Offer a bottle, gift card to a restaurant in town, or even some roasted duck!

DUCK HUNTING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS: OUR BEST ADVICE

The advice above will get you to your hunting location and set up for success. Now, we want to share some duck hunting tips for the big day. You can work on these things leading up to your hunt to ensure you’re ready.

SAFETY FIRST

We’re going to assume you already know how to use your gun – if not, take the time to get some lessons. Not only will it make you a better hunter, but you’ll also be a safer hunter – and that’s the most important duck hunting tip we can provide you. Speaking of safety, you should always be sure that you know your surroundings when hunting. Even if you’re familiar with the spot, make sure you’re aware of other hunters, and anything in the direction you’re shooting.

Furthermore, you are only allowed to shoot during light hours. You should know the specific shooting light time in your location – because it varies from place to place.

WORK ON YOUR CALLS

Duck calls are going to make or break your success hunting. If you can bring ducks to you, you’re going to have a much better day than if your calls scare them away. This is why it’s so important not to just buy the best duck hunting calls – but to learn how to use them correctly. There are different calls for different types of birds – so make sure your call matches your species.

DEVELOP A DECOY STRATEGY

As you’ll soon discover, it’s not so much about the specific decoys you use – it’s how you use them. While buying quality hunting decoys is important, perfecting your decoy line is even more important. Because you have so much gear to buy as it is, go with a budget-friendly decoy set. Just make sure the decoys you select create some type of motion in the water or grass to add a sense of realism and catch the attention of real ducks. Here is a simple decoy strategy you can try yourself:

1. Duck decoys should be placed in accordance with wind direction. Ducks like to land coming into the wind – so you can set up your decoy in the water such that the ducks will fly towards you to land. You want to be facing the wind direction.
2. Set up your decoys in a U shape. This spread shape helps funnel ducks in, allowing you excellent shooting from your blind. Pay attention to decoy distance, too – 5′-8′ apart will give the ducks enough room to feel comfortable. And, be sure you alternate the direction in which your decoys face to add a sense of realism for the ducks flying overhead.

From there, it’s just about setting up your duck blind in the right spot. Keep reading to learn more.

SET YOUR BLIND UP WITH NATURAL COVERINGS

As we mentioned earlier, you need to be sure you’re facing the same direction as the wind so you can see ducks approaching your landing zone. You also need to consider the distance from which you’re shooting – the shorter the better.

You also must be properly concealed – no matter how camouflaged your gear is. Rely on natural coverings. Maybe the natural covering is not perfectly facing your landing zone, though? That’s ok – you should always opt for natural cover. If you set up your decoys in a good U shape, you’ll still have good shooting from the side of the water.

HUNTING DUCKS WITH A DOG

Some of the best duck hunting spots are in really deep water. And, even the best waterfowl waders don’t make getting in freezing cold water easy. Sure, you can get a duck boat to make this easier – but why not consider adding to your family and getting a hunting dog?

Not only does mans best friend keep things light around the house, but a dog will be one of your best assets when hunting. They track down wounded birds and can bring your kills back to you – so you don’t have to move a muscle. Keep in mind that there are certain breeds that are better for hunting than others. And no matter your breed, you’ll need to invest in dog training – and this takes time. But be patient – a properly trained dog is worth the wait!

KNOW YOUR SEASONS

This one should go without saying – but knowing the best time to hunt certain birds will set you up for success. For example, you can start hunting teals in September here in Texas. But in California, duck season starts in October. Meanwhile, certain geese can be hunted starting in February. The point is that different birds have different seasons in different regions.

DRESS WARM & WATERPROOF

The best hunting typically comes during the harshest conditions. That means you’re going to want to bundle up and stay dry with the proper apparel. We go over this in our article about the duck hunting essentials. Here are a few pieces of duck hunting clothing you’ll want to start with:

• Duck hunting bibs
• Duck hunting jackets
• Duck hunting pants
• Duck hunting gloves

FINAL THOUGHTS ON DUCK HUNTING FOR BEGINNERS

That concludes our guide to duck hunting for beginners. Now that you know how to start duck hunting it’s time to prepare your group, your gear, and yourself. For all your hunting and outdoor essentials, stop by our shop at Texas Fowlers.

We have the lowest prices online and unparalleled customer service. That means if you aren’t quite sure which supplies and apparel are right for you, you can give us a phone – we’ll help set you up right from the start. So, what are you waiting for?

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