Hunting waterfowl is one of the most exciting—and sometimes most challenging—types of hunting a new gun owner can take up. Not only are ducks and geese wary birds, but hunting them successfully takes quite a bit of specialized equipment, along with the knowledge of how to use it effectively and correctly.

The most recent figures from Delta Waterfowl show that duck and goose hunter numbers are at a 60-plus-year low, with about 1 million Americans pursuing waterfowl during the 2022/2023 season. That’s the lowest number of waterfowl hunters since 1962!

Waterfowl Hunting

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of good waterfowl opportunities available to those wanting to become involved in the sport. And a giant bonus is much waterfowl hunting is done on publicly managed lands, meaning hunters don’t have to seek permission from private landowners as often as those hunting turkeys or upland and migratory game birds.

In a nutshell, typical waterfowl hunting involves finding a spot frequented by ducks or geese, setting out a number of decoys, calling the birds within shotgun distance and shooting them when they come near. That is, of course, a greatly simplified description of a much more complex process, but you get the idea.

Before we get into equipment needs, waterfowl hunters need to be aware that hunting ducks and geese is regulated by both the federal government and state governments, so it’s critical that you fully understand the waterfowl hunting regulations in your area before pursuing this enjoyable pastime.

Duck & Goose Gear

The most important tool for a new waterfowl hunter to acquire is a good shotgun. Most people prefer a 12-gauge shotgun for ducks and geese, but 20-gauge guns also see plenty of action. Guns with fairly short barrels (24-26 inches) are preferable for easy maneuvering in a blind, and interchangeable chokes are a bonus so hunters can change their pattern depending on the distance of shots as the season advances.

Pretty guns with shiny blued metal and flashy coated walnut stocks might be pretty following bird dogs on a bobwhite plantation, but they’ll scare wary waterfowl off quickly. Matte black and camouflage finishes for receivers, stocks and barrels help hunters stay hidden better.

One important note: On a nationwide basis, shotguns must be plugged to hold no more than three shells in the chamber and magazine combined. This law also applies to migratory game birds like doves.

Waterfowl Ammo

Another must-have, of course, is waterfowl ammunition. Federal law changed several decades ago to outlaw lead shot and require non-toxic shot for waterfowl. Using steel, bismuth and/or tungsten, ammunition manufacturers have many great loads made just for hunting ducks and geese. Be sure and pattern whatever shells you choose in your shotgun before heading to the lake, marsh or field.

While it’s possible to kill ducks and geese without decoys, the vast majority of hunters use decoys to draw birds within shotgun range. For ducks, choose decoys that represent duck species common in your area for best results. For geese, pick decoys that represent the species you will be hunting, or use a mix of light and dark goose decoys. You’ll also need a decoy bag or something to carry your decoys to the marsh, lake or field.

Hunters also need duck and goose calls, representing one of the most fun–and most frustrating–aspects of waterfowl hunting. For most puddle ducks like mallards, teal, gadwalls and widgeons, a simple mallard hen call works well. In areas with lots of pintails, a pintail whistle produces results. For geese, target your calls to whatever geese you are hunting, be they small cacklers or large Canada honkers. 

Camo Up!

Covering up completely in camouflage clothing, and inside a blind, remains a must, no matter how sophisticated or primitive. Match your clothing and blind to your surroundings. The keen eyesight of ducks and geese can catch the slightest movement or out-of-place object, and they typically won’t hang around to investigate further. This includes a good face mask, as more ducks and geese are spooked off by a shiny face than just about anything else in the blind.

While not necessary for dry land field hunting, a good set of insulated waders will go a long way toward keeping you comfortable and helping you reach your hunting spot at lakes, marshes or other boggy areas. Chest waders are best, and camouflaged ones give hunters an extra layer to stay hidden from wary waterfowl.
A good waterfowl dog from a retrieving breed makes for a more efficient hunt and adds another enjoyable element. No, you don’t need a dog to hunt waterfowl. But if you ever get to watch a good duck or goose dog work, you’ll marvel at what they can do. And if you decide to stick with waterfowl hunting for the long haul, I’m betting it won’t be long until you have a Labrador doing double duty as your duck and family dog.

Find a place to hunt at FWS.gov.