What gear do I need to duck hunt?

What gear do I need to duck hunt?

You don’t need the most expensive or nicest hunting gear to get started. In fact, we recommend saving as much as you can on gear in the beginning. It takes experience to get to know exactly what you’re looking for when it comes to gear. Here are a few pointers to help you decide from the start.

The Climate

In order to know what gear you’ll need, you must know the type of weather you’ll be hunting in. Being that most of the duck season is in the winter, it can be dangerously cold depending on where you’re located. A rule of thumb is that you can always shed layers. On the flip side, if you’re cold, there isn’t but so much you can do. 

Base Layers

The most important layer of clothing for keeping warm is the next-to-skin layer. A pair of thermals can make a world of difference in frigid temperatures. You can spend as much as you’d like on these but, we recommend Cabela’s lightweight and heavyweight set. To us, they seem most cost-effective while providing great warmth. Another crucial part of your base layer is a pair of wool socks. We’ve found that one pair often does better than layering up on socks. However, everyone is different so you’ll just have to see what works best for you.

Do I need waders to duck hunt?

In most instances, yes, you will need waders to duck hunt. However, there are times when you might not need them. If you know you’ll be hunting near water, you’ll likely need a pair. Waders come in various materials and styles while all at different price points. As a beginner, you may want to look at some cost-effective choices before spending a fortune. Amazon is a great place to find waders at a good price point. If you’re wanting to invest a little more money for a higher quality product, we recommend Gator, Chene, and Sitka waders.