 Waterfowlers are a passionate bunch, because there's magic to that.
Gunning for ducks and geese is something that's definitely in our
blood. I count myself as one of the crew, even though I can't get
out waterfowling as much as I want to, and a lot of my hunting takes
place in fields versus water. But I will always love the experience
and that special feeling of anticipation on the water just before
sunrise.
The feeling is greatest when everything is just right, and that
only happens when you've prepared things properly. Perfection is in
the details, which starts with your duck boat and what you put in
it.
The first consideration is the boat itself. Is it well-suited for
your hunting situation? For example, if you hunt big water like I
usually do in Minnesota, where the wind can whip up big rollers in
an instant, it's critical to success and safety that the boat can
handle it. This means hunting from a deep-V hull design that can
take the waves. If you hunt solo or with one other hunter, a
14-footer is ideal. With three to four hunters, then upping to a 16
is best. In marshes and backwaters, a mod-V or flat-bottom boat is
preferred for its shallow draft and ability to get into skinny water
where puddle ducks like to loaf and feed.
Whatever hull fits your application, one thing applies to all
boats -- and that is dependable power. I see so many duck hunters
who have old, abused outboards on their duck boats. They put the "junker"
on there, while a superior engine is reserved for the fishing boat.
This just isn't right, because if there's an outdoor pursuit that
demands the finest power, it's duck hunting. Think about it: Duck
hunting is synonymous with cold weather and cold water. Often
freezing conditions. And, hunters routinely have big bodies of water
all to themselves. Which is great for hunting, but if you get in a
jam and need assistance from another boat, there's nobody around to
help you like there typically is while summer fishing on a busy
lake.
So if you're as passionate about waterfowling as I am, insist on
equipment you can count on. My duck boat has an Evinrude E-TEC 15
horsepower on it. There isn't a cold-blooded bone in its body, so I
know it's going to crank right up and perform whether it's 60
degrees on opener or subfreezing during the late season. Another
reason it's a perfect choice for waterfowlers is because E-TEC
doesn't require winterization followed by hibernation. When the
weather gets below freezing, you can "winterize" it right at home
with a simple push-button process after your hunt. Then get up the
next morning and fire it right up without fear of freeze-up. With
other engines, once they're winterized, they're out of commission
until spring.
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 Some other boat considerations for successful waterfowling are
concealment and storage. Effective boat camouflage is essential to
cheating the keen eyesight of wary ducks and geese. Even small worn
spots in painted aluminum can send unnatural glints skyward and
spook ducks. So whether you camouflage with paint, camo tarps or
full enclosures, make sure your concealment is complete. I always
like to bend natural cover into the inside of the boat too, because
having real vegetation incorporated into your man-made camo can make
a real difference.
Several boats today are made specifically for waterfowling,
complete with lockable, watertight gun lockers and gear boxes. We
don't all have the luxury of having a boat like that. I know I
don't. But a good waterproof, heavily padded gun case will protect
your expensive shotgun just as well. And a big travel cooler with a
secure lid latch, all painted with dead-grass paint, is an
affordable and useful dry box for shells, calls, extra clothes and
other essentials.
Remember to plan for worst-case scenarios whenever you load your
boat for duck hunting. Of course you'll need legal PFDs, and you
should wear one at all times. Keep a spare prop and a tool kit on
board for potential pitfalls. Additional safety equipment includes a
first-aid kit, emergency whistle, cellphone, bright flashlights, a
fire extinguisher, anchor, push-pole and paddle, hand-held GPS, and
extra clothes including rain gear. The weather can change on a dime
during duck season, and preparedness can make all the difference in
the world.
I hope you have a fine waterfowl season and that you stay safe,
shoot straight and thoroughly enjoy the magic of waterfowling with
family and friends. So here's to wishing you whistling wings over
your boat...
Good hunting!
[By BABE WINKELMAN]
Babe Winkelman is a nationally known
outdoorsman. For more than 25 years he has taught people to fish and
hunt. Watch his award-winning "Good Fishing" and "Outdoor Secrets"
television shows on Versus, Fox Sports, Texas Channel and many local
networks. Visit
www.winkelman.com for air times where you live and check out
Babe Winkelman on Facebook. |
