Looking for a list of essentials and helpful items for your next duck hunt? KYSEK makes it easy.

Duck/waterfowl hunting is an age-old tradition that is still enjoyed by hunters of all ages. However, there’s a lot of preparation that goes into the sport and bringing the proper gear with you not only ensures your experienced is enhanced, but also leads to a more a successful hunt.

 

First, you will need to understand your state’s specific duck hunting season (which may vary by region) and what is required. Check with your state’s Department of Wildlife & Fisheries to find that information. All hunters over the age of 16 need to purchase a federal Duck Stamp, and most hunters need to acquire a duck/waterfowl hunting license. Your state may also require you to participate in the Harvest Information Program (HIP). 

Secondly, you need to know where to go to hunt. If you don’t have a piece of property available to you, the Department of Wildlife & Fisheries may have information on wildlife management areas that allow duck hunting. 

 

When you’ve got the proper licenses and place to hunt, it’s time to prepare the gear. Duck hunting takes place in the early morning hours, so being packed and ready is essential to getting out there on time. Of course, you’ll need a firearm to hunt with. Most hunters prefer 12-20-gauge shotguns and non-toxic shells for waterfowl. 

Camouflage clothing is the best choice for duck hunting, especially if you don’t have a blind. Because duck hunting happens in fall and winter, you’ll want to be prepared to encounter a range of weather and temperature changes. Dress in layers so that you can add or subtract jackets as needed to stay comfortable. You probably want to have some waterproof layers like pants, a jacket, waders, and boots to deal with rain and muddy conditions. A dry bag is a great item to have to keep your electronics, paperwork, matches, and ammo safe. KYSEK offers four sizes of dry bags to fit the needs of every hunter. The Dry Pouch and 40L Dry Bag are best for small items like phones and hand warmers, while the 50L Dry Bag and 70L Dry Bag are better for clothing and ammunition. 

You need to eat and stay hydrated on a hunt, and KYSEK offers several options to transport your food and beverages. KYSEK’s Trekker LT is a lightweight backpack cooler that you can load with ice, beverages, and foods, and it’s a great option to have cold drinks without dragging a large cooler. KYSEK’s range of rotomolded coolers are better suited for longer, multiple-day hunts in areas without power. Our largest coolers can maintain ice for up to 10 days.

The most important part of your hunting trip is to have fun and make memories. We would love to see photos of you hunt and haul; follow our social media pages and tag @KYSEKIceChests.

 

Necessary Items Checklist: 

Hunting License

Federal Duck Stamp

H.I.P. Certification

Camo clothing (waterproof is preferable)

Gun

Steel Shot shotgun shells

Waders or rubber boots

Pocket knife

Snacks/water/coffee

Shell Bucket (storage of items as well as something to sit on)

First Aid Kit

 

Helpful Items to Have:

Hunting Blind

Binoculars

Duck calls 

Decoys (matching the ducks in the area you are hunting)

Lanyard (to put ducks on after harvesting them for easy transport)

Dry Bag (items such as wallet and phone)

Hand Warmers (depending on the weather)

Portable phone charger with charging cord

Insect repellent or Thermacell Unit

Face Mask for total concealment