As a waterfowler, you face the relentless and often unpredictable conditions on the marshes. And let’s not forget our loyal canine companions who brave these conditions alongside us, their safety and comfort are equally paramount. The right equipment can make the difference between a rewarding day in the field and a frustrating one. That’s why in this article, we will discuss the must-have duck hunting gear and accessories. We’ll recommend items that have proven their worth in the toughest conditions and have earned a place in every waterfowler’s kit.
Quick Duck Hunting Gear List
Duck hunting camo & waders
Clothing accessories
Duck hunting blind & accessories
Blind bag / waterfowl backpack
Decoys, rigging & decoy bag
Duck call
Binoculars
Shooting earbuds & sunglasses
Dog gear
Duck Hunting Clothing & Waders
Do you know that birds, unlike ungulates, have superior eyesight to humans? Ducks have a keen eye, making it all the more important for hunters to blend seamlessly into their surroundings.
Duck hunters often opt for camo with photorealistic depictions of bark and reeds. Sure, a moving person might be easy to spot in this attire, but since duck hunters are usually stationary, it’s not really a problem. Another, more advanced option is a break-up duck hunting camo designed for waterfowl hunting. Unlike mimicry camo, this type features contrasting micro and macro patterns in the colors of marshes or flooded timber areas. These are mixed optimally to exploit the vision of birds in motion above the hunter.
Depending on your hunting area, budget, and features you’d like to have in your duck-hunting clothing, you can check out duck-hunting jackets and waders from brands like River West, Banded, Drake Waterfowl, Sitka Gear, and Beretta.
Take the Drake Buckshot Eqwader waders, for instance. These waders are crafted from 3.5 mm neoprene with a 1600g Thinsulate Buckshot Mud Boot, making them ultra-durable and perfect for the toughest conditions waterfowlers face on their pursuits. Their HD2 Hydro-Flex knees and DryFuse seam technology enhance flexibility and durability, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Other standout features include no-buckle shoulder straps for easy adjustment, a secure upper pouch with a waterproof zipper for keeping essentials dry, and large cargo pockets with Magnattach closures for quick access to gear.
DRAKE Buckshot Eqwader 1600 Stout Neoprene Waders 3.0
$299.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- 3.5 mm neoprene
- 1600g Thinsulate Buckshot Mud Boot
- Higher sides
- High ground pockets
- HD2 Hydro-Flex knees
- DryFuse seam technology
- No-Buckle shoulder straps
- High & Dry security pouch with waterproof zipper
- Large front cargo pouch with Magnattach
- Vertical call pocket with Magnattach
Another great example is the Beretta Suprema 3L Bib. It features fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, perfect for chilly mornings in the blind, and Cordura-reinforced knees and back seats for enhanced durability.
Thanks to its ergonomic design, adjustable-length straps, and Velcro waist pulls, the Suprema Bib offers exceptional ease of movement and a customizable fit. Large waist-high field pockets provide ample storage for gear, while the Beretta BWB Waterproof Technology Membrane ensures breathability and reliable moisture protection throughout your hunt.
BERETTA Men's Suprema 3L Bib (CU353T25100)
$399.00
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- 100% waterproof
- Fleece-lined handwarmer pockets
- Cordura anti-abrasion reinforced on knees and back seat
- Beretta BWB Waterproof Technology Membrane
- Adjustable length straps
- Ergonomic design for ease of movement
- Waist high large field pockets
- Full coverage abrasion inserts
Whatever waders you choose, don’t forget to get a pair of merino wool socks. Merino wool is great at retaining warmth, cushioning, and moisture-wicking.
CEP Men's Hiking Merino Tall Compression Socks
$54.95
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- NEW asymmetric, seamless toe box design for a perfect blister-free fit
- 15-20 mmHg compression on foot and arch; 20-30 mmHg compression from ankle to calf
- Specifically designed for temperature regulation
- Strategically-placed padding provides extra cushion for long-lasting comfort
- Compression adds ankle stabilization for long hiking trips
- Blend of synthetic fibers, Merino wool, and precise compression provide comfort and durability
- Material: 66% Polyamide (Nylon), 23% Merino Wool, 11% Elastane
GLACIER GLOVE Decoy Max 7 Gloves
$49.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- High quality neoprene construction
- Elbow length and fleece-lined
- 100% waterproof
- Sharkskin palm for a secure grip
- Touchrite low friction fingertips for enhanced trigger control
- Oversized cuff fits over a jacket
- Ideal for setting decoys and waterfowl hunting
If you don’t like the feeling of pulling the trigger in gloves, you can get a hand warmer, like this one from Banded, which also has shell loops.
DRAKE Bottomland Handwarmer Muff w/ Agion Active X2
$59.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- Front storage pocket
- 100% soft, polyester fleece lining
- See-through waterproof storage pouch allows you to utilize your touch screen without exposing your phone to the elements
- Waist belt stretch panel for a snug, yet accommodating fit
- Quick-release buckles on both ends allow you to remove the waist belt entirely
A mask and some paint will take care of your face.
DRAKE Men's Early Bird VPT Facemask
$37.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- Vital Protection insect repellent technology protection from mosquitoes, ticks, ants, flies, chiggers and midges
- Double side print to remove high contrast white lining
- UPF50 protection
- Cooling technology for temperature regulation
- Treated with antimicrobial odor control
- Nose & mouth panel with micro vent holes for maximum breathability
- Longer neck length for max coverage
Duck Hunting Blind & Accessories
One piece of equipment you absolutely need in your duck hunting gear arsenal is a quality duck blind. There’s a wide variety to choose from – boat blinds for those aquatic hunts, field blinds for land-based strategies, and even dog blinds for your furry companion.
You’ll also need a blind chair to keep yourself comfortable in your hideout for extended periods. Some chairs, like this one from Banded, come with a swivel feature that enables you to turn easily and quietly, ensuring you don’t miss any action.
BANDED Tall Swivel Blind Chair
$78.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- 360-degree swivel for a full range of motion
- Long-wearing Dura-Max 600D water-resistant exterior
- Easily folds for quick storage
- Metal frame with flared bottom for superior strength and stability
Blind Bag / Waterfowl Backpack
If you’re unsure about what to choose, consider your duck hunting area. If you’re planning to hunt mostly in flooded timber areas, a duck hunting backpack would be a sensible choice as you’ll likely be standing half-submerged in water and moving from one location to another. This requires more mobility, which a backpack can provide by keeping both your hands free. One drawback of a backpack is its limited accessibility, but if your hunting jacket and waders have sufficient pockets and compartments, this becomes less of an issue. Alternatively, you could opt for a pack with zippered pockets on the side.
YUKON OUTFITTERS Castor Vintage Camo Waterproof Backpack
$99.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- Waterproof - Roll Top with All Welded Seam Construction Keeps Out Dirt and Water
- Ultra Durable TPU Composite Shell
- Organized Storage - Large Interior Compartment and 4 Storage Pockets
- Padded Neoprene Shoulder Straps and Backpanel
- Custom Fit - Adjustable Shoulder and Sternum Strap
Its TPU-coated polyester build ensures durability and water resistance, complemented by water-resistant zippers to keep your gear dry. The pack has a main pocket, secondary pockets, and side pockets for easy access to essentials. It also features a webbing loop for hanging and carry handles for easy transportation.
If you plan to hunt from a blind and want to keep your duck hunting accessories accessible, you may want to consider a blind bag, like this one from Drake. It is a well-crafted piece of duck hunting gear. It features a heavy-duty 600D polyester construction and a hard-shell bottom. For storage, it offers a spacious main compartment, handy side pockets for quick access to essentials, a separate molded ammo compartment, and a molded sunglasses case. The bag features a hook to attach to a hook in the timber or a nail in the blind, as well as clips to attach to stubble straps on the outside of your blind.
DRAKE Large Blind Bag
$92.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- 600D Polyester laminated with TPU/PU - Shell Material
- 400D Polyester double-laminated TPU - Liner Fabric
- Clear TPU cell phone sleeve allows you to use your touch screen while protecting the phone from water
- Drake's Fowl-Proof YKK Water-resistant zippers
- Three, large exterior pockets with Drake's Fowl-Proof YKK zippers
- Interior waterproof storage pocket keeps licenses/wallet/keys dry
- Interior storage sleeves with clips allow you to customize your organization and securely hang items like keys, calls, or duck-dispatching tools
- Shock cord lashing on top with cord lock securely attaches Thermos or jacket for easy carry
Decoys, Rigging & Decoy Bag
Ducks love hanging out in groups. If they see other ducks gliding on a wetland, they simply can’t resist joining in. That’s why you need decoys. Starting with six or twelve decoys is plenty. But remember, ducks have sharp eyes and can spot colors like a pro, so go for decoys that look real – right size, right colors.
And don’t forget to grab some decoy rigging accessories, like anchor weights to keep your decoys steady and rigging lines to control the movement and positioning.
And, of course, you’ll need a decoy bag to transport all your decoys and rigging gear to your hunting spot.
DRAKE Texas Rig Mesh Brown OSFM Decoy Bag
$51.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- PVC Coated Mesh Main Bag
- Keep your TX Rig decoys organized and neatly contained in this decoy bag style
- Large bottom opening for filling and draw cord closure with cord locks
- Small top opening for carabiner and decoy lines
- External webbing loops for connecting carabiner during storage and transportation
Duck Call
A duck call is an essential piece of duck hunting gear. If those ducks are feeding out of range, you’re going to need one to lure them in. Most duck calls come in two designs – single-reed and double-reed.
If you’re looking for something easy to start with, single-reed calls are your best bet, as they are usually louder. Plus, once you’ve got the hang of it, they offer a lot more versatility.
ECHO CALLS Timber Single Reed Duck Call
$82.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- Featuring a single reed design, this call offers a distinct advantage in producing a range of realistic duck sounds
- Delivers rich and natural duck tones
- The call is capable of mimicking quacks, feeding sounds, and other vocalizations
- Accessible to hunters of all skill levels
On the other hand, while double-reed calls need a bit more oomph behind each blow, they can sound incredibly realistic, even in the hands of a beginner.
ECHO CALLS Poly Trash Talker Double Reed Bourbon Duck Call
$23.87
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- Crafted from high-quality poly material
- The double reed design provides a balance of raspiness and mellowness
- The call is hand-tuned to produce rich and authentic duck sounds, including quacks and feeding calls
- The Bourbon finish not only contributes to the call's durability but also adds a touch of Bourbon-inspired aesthetics
Binoculars
When scouting for ducks, you need a clear, up-close view of distant areas, and that’s where binoculars come in. Spotting flocks of ducks from afar, identifying their species, and observing their patterns – all of these tasks become a whole lot easier with a good pair of binoculars.
For tracking ducks in flight, an 8×42 binocular can be ideal. It has a large field of view, which allows you to keep your eyes on the birds even when they’re on the move.
VORTEX Diamondback HD 8x42 Binocular
$239.00
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- HD Optical System delivers exceptional resolution, outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness and light transmission
- Fully Multi-Coated to increase light transmission
- Dielectric Coating provides bright, clear, color-accurate images
- Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant ArmorTek coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt
- Rubber Armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection
- Waterproof, shockproof and fogproof
- Roof Prism for greater durability and a more compact size
- Adjustable Eyecups for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses
- Diopter adjusts for differences in a user's eyes
What if you’re scouting out your favorite honey hole and want a closer look? In that case, a pair of 10×42 binoculars could be just the ticket. They offer higher magnification, helping you spot those elusive ducks from a distance.
VORTEX Diamondback HD 8x42 Binocular
$249.00
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- HD Optical System delivers exceptional resolution, outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness and light transmission
- Fully Multi-Coated to increase light transmission
- Dielectric Coating provides bright, clear, color-accurate images
- Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant ArmorTek coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt
- Rubber Armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection
- Waterproof, shockproof and fogproof
- Roof Prism for greater durability and a more compact size
- Adjustable Eyecups for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses
- Diopter adjusts for differences in a user's eyes
Shooting Earbuds & Sunglasses
When you’re duck hunting, you often find yourself looking up into the sky, tracking the flight of ducks. But here’s the thing – the glare from the sun can be blinding, making it hard to keep your eyes on the target. That’s why sunglasses are considered must-have duck hunting gear.
Take these Leupold sunglasses, for instance. One of the standout features is interchangeable lenses for varying lighting conditions. Also, these glasses boast an ANSI-certified frame and ballistic-rated lenses.
WILEY X EYEWEAR Saber Advanced Shooting Sunglasses (308)
$64.99 - $74.00
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- 100% UVA/UVB Protection
- T-Shell Scratch Resistant Coating
- Interchangeable Lenses
- Shatterproof Selenite Polycarbonate Lenses
- Triloid Nylon Frame
- Light Weight
- Adjustable Nosepiece
- Prescription Ready
- Meets ANSI Z87.1+ high velocity impact safety and optical standards
Shotguns are loud – really loud. Extended exposure to such high noise levels can damage your hearing. That’s why ear protection is also a must-have. The best option? Electronic earbuds. Unlike traditional earplugs, electronic earbuds don’t just block out sound; they actually reduce harmful noises while amplifying duck calls or your hunting buddies’ voices.
Walker’s offers some of the best shooting ear protection devices on the market. These NRR 25dB active compression buds boast sizing fins, which come in three sizes so you can wear them for long periods without discomfort, and full dynamic range speakers for clear sound.
WALKERS GAME EARS Razor Patriot 23dB Black Earmuff
$52.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- Ultra Low Profile Ear Cups
- Includes two US Flag patches
- Rubberized Coating
- Two Hi-Gain Omni Directional Microphones
- Audio Input Jack; External Battery Door
- Volume Control
- Comfort Headband with Metal Wire Frame
- Sound Dampening Composite Housing
- Recessed Volume Control Knob
Dog Gear
We’ve already mentioned dog blinds, but what else does your four-paw partner need for the hunt? A dog vest! It’s a must-have for every duck hunter, especially when heading out into colder conditions. When the water temperature dips below 55 degrees, the air temperature falls under 40 degrees, or winds exceed 20+ mph, your loyal companion may start losing vital body heat quicker than you’d anticipate.
Dog vests, like the Avery Boater’s Dog Parka, are designed to trap your dog’s body heat, helping to dry their coat faster and reduce the energy-draining effects of shivering. Not only does it offer warmth, but it also provides buoyancy and protection, ensuring that your dog can safely carry out its tasks for you.
RIVERS WEST Retriever Vest
$42.99 - $53.99
Price accurate at time of writing
Features:
- Perfect hunting vest for your dog
- Durable and lightweight
- No-Chafe Covered Zipper
- Cut to fit Retrieving Breeds
- Floatation Inserts for Neutral Buoyancy
- Camouflage pattern for great concealment
Full Duck Hunting Gear List
Clothing: duck hunting camo, waders, thermal underwear for cold weather, clothing accessories (gloves, hat, mask), moisture-wicking socks
Hunting aids: duck calls, decoys, decoy rigging accessories, blind & blind chair, duck strap, choke tube
Bags: blind bag or waterfowl pack, decoy bag
Hearing protection & sunglasses
Dog gear: dog blind, dog vest, leash, dog whistle
Additionals: survival gear, rain gear, food & water (for you and your dog), personal stuff, first aid kit
FAQ
What do duck hunters wear?
Duck hunters typically wear water-resistant clothing, including a camo jacket and pants (or waders), waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat. The camouflage should match the surroundings to blend in.
What color is best for duck hunting?
The best color for duck hunting is camouflage that matches your hunting environment. This could be a mix of browns, greens, and grays. Ducks have excellent vision and can detect bright and unnatural colors.
Can you duck hunt without waders?
Yes, you can duck hunt without waders, but they are often needed to retrieve downed birds unless you have a dog or the water is shallow enough to walk in with rubber boots.
Can you duck hunt without calling?
You can duck hunt without calling, but using a duck call can significantly increase your chances of attracting ducks. However, improper use of calls can also scare them away.
