Recommended Equipment
I'm sure many of you know what you need to bring with you when going out on the water with the ducks but just in case you forget or are new to the area, here is a list of items to think about bringing along.
Duck Blinds:
The most common way to get access to hunting the river is by boat. You could either hunt right out of the boat with a built in duck blind or create a mobile duck blind to hunt sitting on the marsh.
Duck Boat Blind
Custom Homemade Marsh Duck Blind
I typically make these blinds using stakes to put into the ground, plastic mesh fencing, and zip-ties/string to hold everything together. Then I add the appropriate grasses to blend into the marsh. Be sure to bring something to sit on and a hammer to put in the stakes (for freezing conditions) when using this method
I typically make these blinds using stakes to put into the ground, plastic mesh fencing, and zip-ties/string to hold everything together. Then I add the appropriate grasses to blend into the marsh. Be sure to bring something to sit on and a hammer to put in the stakes (for freezing conditions) when using this method
Hunting Gear:
Some useful supplies and equipment that will make your hunt more successful:
- Shotgun (12 gauge is recommended)
- Ammo - Legal Waterfowl Shot (Recommended shot size based on bird size)
- Floating waterfowl decoys (According to species type being hunting)
- Motorized duck decoys
- Headlamp
- Spotlight and battery
- Waterfowl Calls
- Camo Face paint
- Hand/Foot Warmers
- Knife
- Chair/Dove Stool/Bucket
Clothing:
As you all know Maryland winters can get rather cold, so it is important to bring clothing according to the climate and more importantly, all in camo:
- Insulated Waders
- Long Johns
- Fleece/Hoody
- Wool socks
- Warm pants
- Winter Jacket
- Gloves
- Beanie/Headgear
Boat Equipment and Safety:
Appropriate boating gear will keep everyone safer and make your hunt easier:
- Life Jackets for everyone!
- Floating throw cushion
- Phone/VHF in case of an emergency and chargers
- Flares
- Air Horn
- Extra Fuel
- Paddle
- Ropes
- Anchor
Cooking/Food:
It may not always be necessary but it is often more enjoyable to bring some prepared food with you to the blind or to do some cooking:
- Propane cooker
- Mini propane bottles
- Pan/Pot
- Pam
- Choice of foods (meats,eggs,etc)
- Plastic fork,spoon, knifes
- Paper plates
- Cooking utensils
- Water/Sodas/Juices/Tea
- Thermos with coffee or hot tea
