by L. Woodrow Ross

Created on: July 03, 2008

Waterfowl hunting is unique. The habitat where they are found is rich in wildlife and just being in that environment is an adventure in itself. The early morning hunts with the cold mist rising from the water makes you shiver in anticipation.

There is some basic gear that is required to pursue ducks successfully. Cold weather hunting apparel in a good camouflage pattern is necessary. It should preferably be waterproof/breathable in a material such as GoreTex.

You will need waders to access the wet environment. Hip boots work for some applications, but chest waders insure a better chance of staying dry. Waders should also be camouflage color or a neutral color such as olive drab that blends with the terrain.

Selection of a shotgun is a matter of personal choice. Semi-automatics, pumps, over and unders and side by sides can all be used successfully, but the kind of hunting you do will determine the choke needed. If you plan to hunt in an area where "pass" shooting is the method, you will need full choke or even extra full. If you are planning to hunt over decoys, you can get by with modified choke. Most shotguns have screw in choke adaptors today and can be changed to fit the need. One advantage of double barreled guns is that you have an immediate choice of choke on any shot.

Decoys are an asset is luring the ducks and you should invest in at least a couple of dozen of the prevalent species that you will hunt. A few Canada goose decoys can be set to one side of the spread to attract the honkers if they happen to be in the area. Motion decoys are popular, but not needed in most areas. The size of the decoy spread should be based on the local population. If your waterfowl hunting location has small numbers, set small decoy spreads. In some areas of high population, it is necessary to set large spreads to attract the birds. You can team up with friends to set large spreads, using everyone's decoys.

You will need calls of the species you intend to hunt. You will need to produce quacks, whistles, or honks depending on what birds are flying. Get a good CD and listen to the birds. Try to reproduce those sounds and practice a lot. Get advice from experienced hunters. Don't call too much. When the ducks are coming to the decoys, do not call. When they turn away, call with intensity. When they turn back, stop calling or just give a chuckle as they turn toward you.

Usually, you will need a boat to access the hunting area. If you hunt on big water, you may need a larger boat

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