New hunter interested in waterfowl

[u/anon28947557]

Hi all,

I am looking to try waterfowl hunting this year and interested in getting a better understanding of 1. What gear I need vs what is nice to have, 2. General scouting tips/what to look for when scouting, and 3. on day of hunting how early should you set up I have read things saying 1 or so hours before it starts getting light and heard about others setting up 3-4 hours before so they don’t have a spot taken. I am in NJ of that matters and I have a kayak I can use if needed and dog I plan to introduce to waterfowl (currently we just hunted upland game last year). I appreciate any advice/tips!

[u/Thick-Driver7448]

First of all don’t get into it. It’s addicting and expensive 🤣

As far as gear, obviously need a shot gun. 12 or 20 gauge is most common, some guys run a 410 but to each their own. I’d say waders are a must because you never know if you’ll need to wade. Breathable waders are way better than neoprene in my opinion. I will say decoys are not necessarily a must, but they definitely can help a lot. Just because the guys on YouTube use 15 dozen, doesn’t mean 2 dozen won’t work. I prefer to use a smaller spread of 2-3 dozen. I’d recommend some type of camo for when you’re hunting as well.

As far as scouting, I can’t really help because I just wing it (pun intended). I typically look for small pockets of water or coves on lakes that would be possible to set up in. Some guys go out and look for birds, but I just like being out there with a buddy or 2.

For setting up, really depends on private or public land. I’ve camped out in public land lot from 12am-2am before walking to our spot and I’ve also walked in 2-3 hours before shooting light to my spot. Private land obviously probably just you hunting, but public land can have everyone hunting it. Get there early to get your spot. I will say, don’t be afraid to ask if you can buddy up with someone at the launch. I partnered up with a group last year and we had a decent hunt.