Duck Hunting Information

The most popular form of hunting in North America is duck hunting.  The numbers of waterfowl populations and public waterways and wetlands adds to the popularity of this sport.  Duck hunting equipment is relatively easier to acquire and opportunities to hunt ducks and geese are quite numerous compared to other game species. 

The romantic notion of a hunter and his faithful dog sitting side by side in a blind next to a warm thermos of coffee at sunrise is repeated every autumn by duck hunters throughout the country.  Duck hunting is also a great opportunity to introduce kids to the sport of hunting.  Often many generations of hunters share a duck blind.

Waterfowl Behavior and Ecology for the Hunter

Ducks and gees migrate between nesting habitats and winter feeding grounds.  Typically duck migrations begin in late summer and proceed through early winter. 

There are three major waterfowl flyways; the eastern, the central and the Pacific flyway.  All originate in Canada or Alaska and terminate in the southern United States or Latin America.  A great source for the status of migrations during the fall duck hunting season is the Ducks Unlimited website.  Hunters can get weekly updates as to the fall flights of ducks on this website. 

Another behavioral trait that ducks exhibit that can be of benefit to duck hunters is flying during or immediately before a storm.  Duck hunters should keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to head to their favorite blind on a moments notice.

Do It Yourself (DIY) Public Land Duck Hunts

Do-it-yourself duck hunting is quite easy and affordable for most hunters.   A retrieving dog is desirable but not a necessity.  Decoys enhance your chances of success by luring ducks to within your shooting range.  Wetland maps, BLM and USFS maps are readily available at most sporting goods stores. 

The best option for learning how to duck hunt is to utilize a mentor.  Local hunter education instructors in your area will know many hunters who would be glad to teach a new duck hunter.  Often there is a local chapter of Ducks Unlimited in your area and they usually hold an annual banquet that is attended by avid waterfowl hunters and their families.

Guided Duck Hunts

Outfitted duck hunts are becoming increasingly popular.  Canadian duck and goose hunts are quite attractive to duck hunters in the lower forty eight States.  The Canadian outfitted duck hunts offer both early, mid and late season duck hunts.  Outfitted goose hunts are also popular. The provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan are the most desirable outfitted and guided duck hunting locations in Canada. 

American guided duck hunts are offered virtually in every State.  Begin by checking the local Outfitters and Guides association website and search under duck or waterfowl hunts.  Many outfitters and guides provide decoys, lodging, a boat and wonderful home cooked meals during the hunt.

Duck Hunting Equipment

There is an endless supply of duck hunting equipment that is available for the hunter.  A dependable and effective shotgun is essential.  The classic work horse style of duck hunting shotgun is the 12 gauge pump Remington model 870 Wing Master.  This pump shotgun has been proven in all types of weather in duck blinds everywhere.  There are many other shotgun models and manufacturers that also work well for duck hunting.  Online research can provide great price comparisons and other information. 

Duck calls are quite variable and steeped in family traditions.  Duck decoys range from the simple to the elaborate and can be purchased at most sporting goods stores or online at vendors like Cabelas or Bass Pro Shops. 

Waterproof duck hunting clothing is essential.  Waders, pants, jackets and gloves have all benefited from recent advances in fabric technology.  Cabelas and Bass Pro Shops are an easy online option for duck hunting clothing.