Waterfowl Hunting Essentials: Everything You Need and Nothing You Don’t

I wish it weren’t true, but it is. I’m a gear junkie. I have a shed full of hunting gear that was supposed to make my adventures epic. 

But it didn’t. 

I’ve been on a minimalist kick lately, which got me thinking about how little gear I could get away with and still have a successful duck hunt.

Now granted, it’s still a lot of gear, and just in case my wife is reading this, this is the bare minimum, so all the extra stuff I have stored still helps me.

Duck Hunting Must-Haves

The most challenging part of creating this list is considering all the different styles of waterfowl hunting. 

So, instead of a one-size-fits-all list, which would only work to a point, I’ve created three lists: gear you’ll need everywhere, gear you’ll need for dry field hunting, and gear you’ll need when hunting over the water. 

Mandatory Gear No Matter Where You Duck Hunt

1. Hunting License and Duck Stamps
2. Shotgun with a Sling
3. Non-toxic Shotshells (Steel or Bismuth)
4. Blind Bag
5. Headlamp
6. Face Mask, Gloves, and Warm Socks
7. Decoys
8. Game Strap
9. Water and Snacks

To stay legal, you must purchase a hunting license and duck stamps whether you’re hunting on public or private land. Be sure to check your local regulations to stay up-to-date on all the waterfowl hunting regulations.

No matter where you hunt, needing a shotgun should be obvious. Still, I prefer a pump-action shotgun over a semi-auto because, in my experience, pump-action shotguns are much more reliable. I found out the hard way about not using a sling; needless to say, I quickly went out and bought myself a sling.

I recommend getting something between #4 Shot and BB when picking out shells. BB will be the better bet if you’re hunting big ducks and geese, whereas if you’re hunting smaller ducks like teal, #4 Shot will be plenty.

A blind bag is a must and preferably waterproof, even if you hunt a dry field. This helps you carry your smaller gear and protect it from rain and frost. I like backpacks the best, but get whatever is most comfortable to carry.

While a flashlight is way better than nothing, I like a headlamp so my hands stay free, and I don’t risk dropping it in the water while I help set up the decoys.

Some of the most overlooked pieces of clothing are face masks and gloves. Not only do they help keep you warm, but they also help you blend in better and less human-shaped. My feet always get cold, probably because I sweat so much walking to my spots, so warm socks are a must. I’ve found the combination of a silk sock as a base layer with a wool sock on top keeps my feet dry and warm.

Decoys are needed to grab the birds’ attention and make them believe where you’re set up is a great spot to stop by and visit. The type and number of decoys will depend on where you hunt. I’ve gotten by with as little as six floating decoys and used as many as 12 dozen full bodies and silo socks.

For years, I carried my ducks and geese by hand or stuffed them in the decoy bag to return to the truck. When I finally purchased a game tote, it made life much easier. My blind bag has one built-in, which is fantastic!

I’m the guy who got made fun of for always having snacks… Until one of my buddies became hungry, too. Then, I was a hero. Carrying all the gear to your spot is hard work, so more than likely, you’ll work up an appetite and a thirst by the end of the hunt.

You’ll notice I didn’t list calls because calls are overrated and overused. Yes, they’re helpful most days IF you know how to use them. Most beginners do more harm than good with calls, so I recommend leaving them at home. Your hide and decoy setup are much more important than calling.hide-and-decoy

Gear You Need In a Dry Field

1. Blind
2. Warm Bibs
3. Comfortable Boots

On top of all the gear mentioned above, you’ll also need to add a layout blind or A-frame blind to the list if you plan on hunting in a field. Your hide is vital to a successful hunt, so brush it in as naturally as possible.

When I first began hunting in fields, I wore my waders because that’s all I had, but now that I have bibs, it’s much more comfortable to move and walk. I strongly recommend bibs. 

Comfortable boots are another strong recommendation; walking in waders isn’t fun, and tennis shoes are not warm. Quality hunting boots for dry field hunting are a wise investment.

Gear You Need When Hunting Over Water

1. Chest Waders
2. Waterproof Jacket

When hunting around water, staying dry is the most important thing. Not only does it help you stay more comfortable, but it also keeps you safe. That’s why I recommend getting chest waders and a waterproof jacket.

When picking out a pair of chest waders, I prefer breathable waders because they’re lightweight, more comfortable, and still warm, as long as you layer correctly. Neoprene waders are more cumbersome but also less expensive. I’ve hunted in both for years, and either will get the job done.

Parting Shots: Duck Hunting Essentials

As you can tell, it takes a lot of gear to have a successful waterfowl hunt. 

I haven’t even mentioned all the cool gear that makes hunting more enjoyable, like marsh stools, duck dog gear, duck boats, kayaks, and more. 

Duck hunting is an expensive hobby, but to ease the burden, find someone in your local area who already has most of the gear and ask to tag along on some hunts to learn the ropes and see what gear you need. Offer to pay for gas and help scout or buy their breakfast. 

If you don’t think you’ll get to hunt much, hiring a guide with all the gear and spots will be better than buying a bunch of gear you rarely use. 

Whatever you choose, the most important thing to remember is to stay safe and enjoy the experience.