5 Expert Tips For The Best Duck Hunting Season Yet

1. Do your homework

Duck hunting can be a challenging but rewarding experience. If you’re new to the sport, it’s important to do your homework and learn as much as you can before heading out into the field.

There are a few key things to keep in mind when duck hunting, such as where to find the ducks, what type of equipment you need, and how to set up your decoys. Keep reading for our top duck-hunting tips to help you get started!

2. Pattern the ducks

When you’re out in the field, it’s important to be patient and observe the ducks in their natural environment. By studying the ducks before you attempt to hunt, you can learn the correct way to pattern them.

Patterning ducks involve learning the different flight patterns and behaviors of the ducks in the area. It helps you understand where and when the ducks are feeding and resting, and where they are likely to go when you shoot.

You can also use patterning to determine the best location to set up your decoys and blinds. Some of the best duck blinds are in areas where ducks tend to congregate. When setting up your decoys, make sure you create a realistic pattern that mimics natural flight paths and feeding areas.

By taking the time to learn the different behaviors of the ducks in the area, you can increase your chances of a successful duck hunt.

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3. Get the right gear

Having the right gear is essential for any successful duck hunting trip. Before you hit the field, make sure you have the right kind of clothing and equipment. You should consider the weather and terrain of the area you’ll be hunting in.

The right apparel will keep you warm and dry. It’s best to wear a polyester blend with insulation. For cold, wet weather, make sure you have waterproof rain gear.

You should also have a good pair of wading boots for navigating the marsh or swamp. Make sure to wear non-slip shoes to safely navigate mud and slippery surfaces.

When it comes to guns for duck hunting, you have a few options. Pump-action shotguns and autoloaders are the most common. Make sure you select a gun that fits you well and is comfortable to use. It’s also important to know the local game laws before selecting a gun.

Ideally, you should also have a retriever dog to help you locate ducks. The retriever should be well-trained and able to safely retrieve the ducks on command.

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4. Set up in the perfect position

Setting up in the perfect position for duck hunting is key to success. You want to be hidden from the ducks and in a spot where you can get a good view of the field. Wear camouflage to blend in with your surroundings, and keep all your movements slow and steady.

Your position should also provide you access to different types of cover. Ducks like to watch from higher ground, so try to find a spot with both high and low cover. Don’t forget to scout out the different wind directions that could affect the ducks’ flight paths.

Additionally, make sure you set up a decoy spread that is realistic and inviting. Use both moving and non-moving decoys in different sizes and colors. Consider where you want to position your decoys relative to your blind. Place the decoys in an area that will draw the ducks in close.

Setting up in the perfect position requires plenty of practice and patience. Remember to stay concealed, move slowly, and take advantage of any natural cover in the area. Lastly, make sure your decoy spread is realistic and positioned for maximum effect. With the right setup, you’ll have the best chance of a successful duck hunt.

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5. Wait for the right moment

A lot of duck hunting success depends on being in the right place at the right time. This means knowing the birds’ daily and seasonal patterns. Be patient in waiting for the birds to come within shooting range, as it can take time for ducks to trust their environment and fly in closer. As you wait, pay attention to their behavior and anticipation.

Knowledge of the birds and their habits will help you determine when to take a shot. Also, watch for any ducks that don’t fly with the flock – they could be an easy target. If a duck is directly overhead, don’t move; it may dive in and provide an easy shot.

Typically, ducks don’t stay in one area for long. When they fly low, they’re likely heading to more open water, so they may change direction quickly. Pay attention to the direction they’re going and be quick when it’s time to shoot. Don’t be too eager to shoot; wait until they fly close to the ground and give yourself enough time to get a decent shot at them. Remember to take stock of the various duck species and know the legal limits when hunting season is in effect.

Have patience as you wait for the right moment. With practice, you’ll be able to execute the shot if and when an opportunity presents itself.

6. Be patient

Patience is an essential part of duck hunting, so don’t be in a hurry to start shooting. Ducks are easily spooked, so move slowly and make as little noise as possible. Whether you’re getting ready to shoot or just approaching your hunting spot, keep an eye out for potential disturbances that might cause the ducks to fly away.

Know your gear and make sure you know how to use it. Having the right gear helps you stay quiet and blend in, and you don’t want to be fumbling with it when a flock of ducks suddenly appears. Keep your shooting equipment close by and easy to access to be prepared when the ducks come in.

Your body gestures and movements should also be kept to a minimum. Flapping your arms will not only startle the prey but might also alert other hunters that you are in the vicinity. Relax your body and stance and keep your hands still. Avoid sudden movements and gestures as you wait for the ducks to come into range.

Learning to wait for the perfect moment and making as few movements and noises as possible will increase your chances of a successful hunt. With patience and practice, you’ll soon be able to execute the shot if and when a perfect opportunity arises.

7. Take the shot

If you have been patient and have taken the time to prepare your gear, and you see an opportunity present itself, you have to take the shot. With practice, you will learn to gauge the wind, identify where the ducks are flying, and time your shot with precision. Shooting ducks is not a game, but more of an art form and the confidence to do so comes with practice and experience.

When the ducks come into range, the right angle, look, feel and sound should be just right for you to take the shot. Be sure to stay alert, be mindful of your positioning, and actively pick out the ducks as they come in. You should be able to make out their location, number, speed, direction, and distance from you within seconds.

Once you have identified your target, line up the shot, then pull the trigger. Remember to relax and don’t try to anticipate the shot. Have faith in your technique, experience, and judgment and understand that the ducks are never certain to hit their target. Always maintain a safe distance from fellow shooters and take safety seriously when shooting.

Using the right equipment and safety gear is a must, and you should always make sure you are hitched up with reliable gear that will not fail you when you need it the most. With each practice session, you should get better, and with each successful shot, you will gain more confidence.

8. Retriever the duck

Once you have released the shot, it’s time to retrieve the duck. The important thing to keep in mind is to be very aware of your surroundings. Look out for the tall grass or the marshy areas, which can be dangerous and sometimes cause you to lose sight of the duck.

Make sure to mark the spot where you think the duck fell. Using the right technology is a great way to track the duck's flight path. The GPS location technology, Floater GPS, is one of the most popular ones to use for duck hunting as it will help you always find the duck and your truck easily.

Once you locate the duck, you must handle it ethically. Make sure to pick it up correctly, cradle it in your arms, and put it in the creel or game pouch. Be careful when handling it so that the duck remains in good condition.

Retrieving the duck is an important part of the duck hunting experience and it’s something you should take the time to practice. Being able to locate and properly handle the duck is part of the hunting etiquette and it shows respect for the species and the environment.

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9. Be safe

Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to duck hunting. Make sure to always wear the necessary safety gear such as a helmet, safety harness, and chest protector. It’s also important to wear clothing that is made from waterproof materials and designed for outdoor hunting and cold weather.

Also, make sure to be aware of the regulations in your area, as well as the regulations for the area where you’re hunting. Some states may require hunters to carry a hunting license, as well as a stamp for the species they are hunting.

Finally, always make sure to take more people with you for safety reasons. It’s always a good idea to bring a minimum of two people and have a designated spotter to watch out for any unseen dangers. Having another person with you can also help if you experience any difficulties in the water or mud.