Duck Season Prep: Planning, Gear & Pro Tips

Duck season doesn’t just sneak up on you, it rewards hunters who put in the work before opening day. If you want to step into the blind ready for success, now is the time to make your plan, check your gear, and get the dog and decoys in shape.

Here’s your step-by-step duck hunting preparation checklist so you’re ready when the first flock buzzes the spread.

1. Make a Plan for the Season

Every great hunt starts with a game plan. Study migration patterns, check regulations for your area, and mark key dates on your calendar. Decide where you’ll hunt, how you’ll access those spots, and which weekends are best for different species.

Pro Tip: Have backup spots in case your first-choice location is overcrowded or weather conditions change.

2. Practice Your Duck Calling

Even experienced hunters need to keep their calling sharp. Dedicate time to practicing feed chuckles, greeting calls, and comeback calls well before the season starts.

• Practice in realistic hunting positions (like sitting in your blind).
  
  
• Listen to recordings of live ducks to match cadence and tone.
  
  
• Avoid overcalling — learn when to let the decoys do the work.
  
  

3. Get Your Shotgun Cleaned & Ready

Your shotgun is your most important tool in the marsh. A thorough cleaning and inspection now can prevent frustrating jams or misfires later.

• Check for rust, wear, or loose parts.
  
  
• Pattern your shotgun with your chosen loads to confirm point of impact.
  
  
• Make sure you have the correct choke tubes for the type of hunting you’ll be doing.
  
  

4. Prep Your Decoys

Dirty, faded, or damaged decoys can flare wary late-season birds.

• Wash off mud, algae, and touch up paint if needed.
  
  
• Replace frayed lines or cracked weights.
  
  
• Organize your spread so it’s quick to deploy in the field.
  
  

5. Get Your Dog Ready

If you hunt with a retriever, their conditioning and obedience need just as much attention as your gear.

• Refresh basic obedience commands.
  
  
• Run water retrieves to build endurance.
  
  
• Practice with decoys in place so the dog learns to work around them.
  
  

6. Field Work: Hiding Blinds & Cutting Paths

A great hide is just as important as a great spread.

• Brush up your blinds with fresh vegetation to match the environment.
  
  
• Cut shooting lanes and walking paths before the season to minimize disturbance later.
  
  
• Check water levels and footing so you’re not surprised on opening morning.
  
  

7. Get Out Your Hunting Clothes

Comfort and concealment go hand in hand. Pull out your gear now to make sure it’s ready.

• Make sure you have the right clothing for the locations and conditions you’ll face this season — from lightweight gear for early teal hunts to insulated, waterproof layers for late-season cold fronts.
  
  
• Inspect waders for leaks.
  
  
• Layer according to early and late-season weather conditions.

8. Stock Up on Duck Hunting Gear

From shells and calls to waders and decoys, having the right gear makes all the difference.

Shop all your duck hunting needs at Springhill Outfitters — your one-stop shop for waterfowl season.

Duck season success starts long before sunrise on opening day. By making a plan, practicing your calling, getting your gear in shape, prepping your dog, and scouting your spots, you’ll be ready for whatever the season throws at you.

Visit Springhill Outfitters to gear up now — so when the first flock cups into your spread, you’ll be ready to pull the trigger.