Waterfowl hunters are notoriously picky when it comes to the gear they use in the field. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 pieces of gear that’s likely on your waterfowl hunter’s wishlist.
Over the past few years, Sitka has built an amazing name for themselves in the waterfowl industry, hate it or love it. Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, there’s a cult following. Both, for damn good reasons. The versatility and quality found in Sitka apparel is truly second to none.
The Sitka Gear Men’s Gradient Fleece Insulated Performance Hoody (how’s that for a product name) tops our list as one of the best hoodies for waterfowlers on the market.
Used as a standalone, or as a layering piece for frigid temperatures, the high-loft Berber fleece provides superior core heat insulation while remaining incredibly comfortable. Available in a multitude of camo patterns, you’re sure to find one suitable for your waterfowl hunting needs.
2. MOJO Elite Series Floater Spinning Wing Duck Decoy for Duck Hunting, Mallard Drake
Ask any waterfowler worth their salt and they’ll tell you the same thing. Motion and movement are key for bringing feet down birds in. Spinners do this marvelously. Now throw a spinner on a float (removing the need for a pole), add a remote-control unit to it, and you’re set.
3. ALPS OutdoorZ Zero-Gravity Layout Blind
Hands down, the most comfortable layout blind on the market. The Alps Zero-Gravity Layout Blind keeps you comfortably off the ground while still maintaining an ultra-low profile, no matter what type of ground cover you’re working with. Easy setup and packability make this layout blind the perfect addition to any waterfowl hunter’s kit.
4. Drake Waterfowl Neoprene Shell Belt
Keep your shells at the ready and within reach with the Drake Neoprene Shell Belt. Easily accommodates 25 shotgun shells while also providing a sense of security with the integrated belt over your waders to stop slow the fill-up if you end up taking a spill in the marsh.
We’ve experienced more than a few marsh seats in our day and Avery continues to come out on top. Lightweight and easily packable, you’ll be comfortable and secure during your time out in the field. Made of rust-proof fluted aluminum, this marsh seat adjusts from 27” to 37” for just about any condition you’ll find yourself in. The retractable marsh feet provide a secure foundation and eliminate slippage and lean.
6. Drake Waterfowl MST Performance Hoodie
Old school camo is making a comeback, and for good reason! It’s effective and looks cool as hell, two things we consider pretty importantly when picking our “go-to” hunting apparel pieces. Drake’s performance hoodie checks all the boxes for us, at a very affordable price point to boot.
7. Dakota Decoy X-Treme Flocked Drake Head Mallards (12 Pack)
If you’re looking for incredibly lifelike and realistic duck decoys, look no further, Dakota Decoy has it right here. With a hand-painted finish on every decoy, the attention to detail is stunning. Add these to your duck hunting spread and you’ll be doing yourself a favor.
8. Filson Logger Mesh Cap Shadow Grass
Filson is best known for its commitment to designing and producing some of the highest quality gear and apparel for hunters and outdoors enthusiasts. That quality and dedication to craftsmanship translate to every piece of gear Filson offers, this hat included. This six-panel hat features a tin cloth front panel that’s water repellent and abrasion resistant, perfect for weathering whatever mother nature throws your way.
9. Higdon Outdoors 12-Slot Duck Decoy Bag
Decoy bags don’t get enough feedback. The good ones are REALLY good….and, well, the bad ones are REALLY bad. Prices are all over the place, ranging from $20 for an off-brand no-frills design, up to $220 for something that’s likely to last for many seasons to come. The Higdon 12-slot duck decoy bag is right up there in the affordable category, but it’s also dependable and tough. We’ve put more than a few of these duck decoy bags through the wringer and they continue to impress.
10. Quake the Claw Shotgun Sling – Max5
Shotgun slings are a dime a dozen, we totally get it. That being said, you don’t know what you’re missing if you’ve yet to try out The Claw. Set it and forget it, The Claw is going to stay securely fitted to your shoulder in whatever conditions you find yourself in. Do yourself the favor, make the investment in a quality sling and save yourself the heartache of fishing your shotgun out of the pond.
So, with all of the options above, did we miss anything that you think should be on this waterfowl hunter’s wishlist list? If so, drop it in the comments below. Happy hunting!!