I’ve spent my days on the sea and dropped plenty of birds over freshwater, corn stubble and pea fields. Every season it’s the same ‘ol routine of getting a few buddies together to practice our calling and repaint the decoys, check the blinds and pack up the gear. We then start making a wish list and decide whose pride can best withstand the begging necessary to get our ladies to authorize the necessary expenditures.
Last year—in an attempt to preserve our collective manhood—we took a different approach. We researched our list, linked it to our favorite e-shopping site and presented it to the wonderfully generous, beautiful and gracious Mrs. Claus’ in our lives—otherwise known as the local waterfowl widows—with great success. In fact, our decorated pines produced so many great gadgets last December we are going to try it again this year and though I’d share the list with you.
- Shotgun: When waterfowling, camouflage is king. Your shotgun needs to be glare-free to prevent spooking the keen vision of ducks and geese. A 12-gauge is the standard, but a 20-gauge will work. A few still like a big 10-gauge, but with today’s 3- and 3.5-inch offerings, a 12 is more than capable. You’ll want a reliable pump or semi-auto to help when the action comes in fast. Get properly fitted to be certain the gun fits you and operates with ease. If you don’t own a camo model, you can always use a non-marring cover.
- Hearing Protection: Electronic muffs will allow you to communicate without getting your bell rung by gun next to you.
- Shotshells: Steel or non-lead shot is required in most areas, and No. 4 shot is the accepted minimum pellet size for ducks; No. 2 for Canadas. I’m a huge fan, and have had serious success, with Federal’s Black Cloud FS Steel, Speed-Shok and Remington’s HyperSonic Steel, but there are plenty of other quality choices. Note: there is a significant range difference between steel shot and a heavy non-lead alternative in terms of range and impact.
- Gun case: If you are going to be on a boat, select a floating case. For pit blinds and layout hunting, look for a case that can endure mud and water while protecting your shotgun. Generally a soft-sided case is best for the field, but hard-sided cases are required for certain travel.
- Calls: There are hundreds of models, but select one that sounds good to you and is easy to operate. Use a lanyard to hang the calls around your neck and keep ‘em ready for action. You can buy calls with instructional DVDs to help you master the language of ducks and geese.
- Decoys: Include those for the species you hunt and add a few confidence decoys. You’ll also need to select your decoy by the area you are going to hunt. Floating and land decoys will require different bases.
- Binocular: A binocular is useful to spot incoming birds or determine where they might be landing. Old and young eyes can use every advantage they can get. I could have limited out a few more times if I would have seen the duck before it flared.
- Sling: For the shotgun, and useful when carrying it out to the blind. This is so often over looked. I disconnect my sling once I am in the blind, but getting to and from my hunting spot can be a nightmare without a good sling.
- Call lanyard: A lanyard is absolutely necessary. If possible connect a loop to each end of your call to prevent losing a one of the halves.
- Gear bag: A blind bag is useful for storing and toting gear, plus boxes of shotshells and a thermos with coffee or hot chocolate. If you have several decoys, make sure to use a decoy bag that allows for easy transport to the field or water.
- Waders or hip boots: A good set of waders or hip boots should be a part of every waterfowler’s kit to keep you mobile and dry. Even with a dog or a boat, I prefer to have a something to chase down a cripple or retrieve a bird on those occasions when the dog decides to go on strike.
- Layout blind or camouflage netting: Concealment is king when hunting ducks and geese. The comfort of a quality layout blind is more than worth the price. An extra bit of camo netting is great for shoring up a blind or concealing a nearby boat.
- Flag: Most useful when flagging geese and adding action to your decoy spread.
- Flashlight and batteries: You’ll be going to the blind or set-up well before first light. A quality flashlight and spare batteries will be useful for decoy placement and setting up your blind and gear before the hunt.
- Daypack or field bag: For packing along snacks, hot chocolate, coffee, hand warmers, extra boxes of shotshells. Some hunters substitute a field bag with shoulder strap.
- Cleaning kit: In case you accidentally get mud in the shotgun’s barrel or if the shotgun’s action needs more lubricant. Murphy’s Law – things go wrong at the worst possible time. Your cleaning kit does not have to be fancy, but a barrel swab and some lube are required at a minimum.
- Seat or bucket: A must for sitting during long breaks in the blind. If your blind has a tendency to flood, or you are hunting flooded timber make sure your four-legged friend has first priority on a seat.
- Knife: A sharp knife or multi-tool is great for chores such as cutting or maintaining decoy lines. You’ll also want your favorite knife or shears for cleaning your birds as well.
- Rope: At least a 20-foot section for anchoring your boat, blind repairs and repairing your decoy tethers.
- Rangefinder: A rangefinder is a great little perk for determining your shooting range. You can also range other blinds or boats to ensure you are a safe distance—for both sets of hunters. Lead-rain fights are not fun.
- Rainsuit: I don’t like to leave the field if the action is hot or if the weather will pass, but it can make for a miserable sit if you are wet. Carry a rainsuit or make sure you have quality waterfowl clothing. These will help you stay dry on a boat ride to the hunting blind too.
- Extra socks: Wet feet blows. Whether your waders spring a leak or you have a warmer than expected day and your feet sweat, an extra pair of socks can be worth its weight in gold.
- Toilet paper: In case you have a cold – need I say more?
- Gloves: To keep your hands warm, and camouflaged to help conceal you from the keen eyes of ducks and geese. Be certain you can operate your shotgun while wearing them. Another great product is a waterproof glove so you can reach into cold water to retrieve a bird.
- First aid kit: Your first-aid kit should include a whistle, fire starter and emergency blanket as a minimum. Bad situations are magnified by the unprepared.
- Water bottle: Or something to drink during and after the hunt. Remember, your furry friend always drinks first!
The Hardest Worker on Any Hunt—The Dog
If you travel overnight, you might need locks for boat trailers; a motel that permits dogs, and extra items for concealing shotguns, securing gear, and caring for your dog.
- Food/Treats: You will want to keep man’s best friend well fed and energized during the hunt.
- Water: Provide the dog clean water in a clean bowl.
- Whistle: Your favorite whistle to call and give commands as the dog works.
- Float coat or vest: Your dog will appreciate a vest when placed in frigid waters.
- Leash: To keep the dog under control, close by, and safe while hunting or traveling. Also a safe place for the dog to rest when you must go indoors. Select a durable crate cover if it’s cold out. No reason to burn your dog’s hunting energy just trying to stay warm.
- Kennel: For the ride to the hunting site and back, this crate keeps your dog concealed and under control.
- Towel: For wiping off mud and water after the hunt and to help your dog stay dry and warm between flocks when cold.
- Collar: Be certain your name and cell phone number are legible.
- First aid kit: Your dog, when injured, depends upon you. It could be difficult to find a vet open when you need one.
- Phone number of veterinary offices in the region: Pre-plan, especially when on a hunt, and look up and record vet office numbers.
If you are a duck or goose junkie too, you’ll likely have a list already prepared. So, feel free to share your favorite items. We have birthdays just about every month of the year!