Outfitting Your Duck Boat
Duck boats are perfect for hunting waterfowl in their native environment. Their small, flat-bottomed designs make maneuvering around shallow waters a breeze. However, as any experienced hunter will tell you, a successful hunt requires a lot more than that. This is L&M Marine’s guide to outfitting your duck boat.
Tools
If something breaks down mid-hunt, being able to fix it will be helpful. That’s why you should pack a toolbox with starter spray, wrenches, duct tape, a flashlight, spare parts, and whatever else you might need to perform basic repairs. If you have extra space, that same toolbox is also a good place to stow things that you want to keep dry like extra ammo, socks, gloves, scarves, hats, rope, and so on.
Safety
Life jackets might not seem as necessary in the kinds of shallow waters that ducks tend to call home, but the last thing you want is to be caught unawares. Everyone on the boat should have a well-fitting life jacket and wear it at all times. You should also pack additional safety equipment like a first-aid kit and signal devices such as flairs or an air horn. Finally, make sure that you have a safe way to store any guns or knives you may be using.
Navigation is also important, especially if you’re hunting in an unfamiliar area. In addition to your GPS unit, pack a laminated map of the area along with a compass. If you do end up getting lost, extra supplies, a knife, a space blanket, extra rope, and some method of starting a fire will help you survive until help arrives.
Comfort
The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll be able to focus on hunting. Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat will keep the sun out of your eyes, while seat pads can make sitting for hours less of a strain. Don’t forget to pack a few amenities to keep yourself from growing bored!
If you’re duck hunting during the fall or winter, it’s important that you keep yourself warm and dry. In addition to a towel and hand warmers, pack an extra set of clothes to change into if you get wet. Hypothermia is no joke!
Shop duck boats at L&M Marine. Visit us online or at our dealership in Stapleton, Alabama. We also offer financing, parts ordering, marina services, trade-ins, and maintenance. We’re proud to serve communities like Pensacola, Florida, and Mobile, Alabama.