Waterfowl Hunting Guide

Waterfowl hunting presents unique challenges that differ significantly from clay shooting and upland hunting. The targets are larger but often farther, conditions can be harsh, and non-toxic shot requirements change your ballistics.

Key difference: Unlike clay targets, waterfowl require non-toxic shot. Lead is prohibited for waterfowl hunting in the US. This fundamentally changes your ammunition choices and shooting technique.

How Clay Shooting Prepares You

Transferable Skills

• Leading crossing targets
• Tracking incoming birds
• Maintaining swing through the shot
• Picking one target from a group

What's Different

• Longer distances (30-50 yards typical)
• Steel/non-toxic shot patterns differently
• Bulky clothing affects gun mount
• Shooting from seated or unusual positions

Non-Toxic Shot Requirements

Since 1991, federal law requires non-toxic shot for waterfowl hunting in the US. Understanding your options is essential:

Shot Type	Density	Cost	Notes
Steel	Low	$	Most common. Size up 2 sizes from lead. No choke tighter than Modified.
Bismuth	Medium	$$$	Safe in older guns. Patterns like lead. Size up 1 size.
Tungsten blends	High	$$$$	Superior performance. Use same or smaller sizes than lead.
Tungsten Super Shot (TSS)	Very High	$$$$$	Allows smaller shot sizes. Exceptional performance at range.

Shot Size for Waterfowl

Ducks (Teal, Wood Ducks)

Steel #4 or #3. Bismuth #5. Tungsten #5 or #6. Smaller, faster birds at moderate ranges.

Ducks (Mallards, Pintails)

Steel #2 or #3. Bismuth #4. Tungsten #4 or #5. Larger ducks at typical decoy range.

Geese

Steel BB or #2. Bismuth #2 or #1. Tungsten #2 or #3. Large, tough birds often at longer ranges.

Chokes for Steel Shot

Warning: Steel shot should not be used with chokes tighter than Modified. Full choke can damage older barrels and create dangerous pressures. Check your choke tubes for steel shot compatibility.

Steel patterns tighter than lead. Adjust accordingly:

Decoying Birds (Under 35 yds)

• Improved Cylinder or Light Modified
• More open gives forgiveness on close shots
• Steel patterns like one constriction tighter

Pass Shooting (35-45 yds)

• Modified (maximum for steel)
• Pattern your specific load
• Consider upgrading to bismuth or tungsten

Types of Waterfowl Hunting

Decoy Hunting

The classic approach. Set decoys, use calls to attract birds, shoot as they approach or land. Most shots under 35 yards. Best for developing skills.

Pass Shooting

Position yourself along flight routes. Shoot birds as they fly past. Longer range, more challenging. Requires excellent lead estimation.

Jump Shooting

Stalk ducks on water and flush them. Similar to upland hunting. Quick reflexes needed. Close range, fast action.

Layout Hunting

Lie flat in a layout blind among decoys. Birds approach overhead. Unusual shooting positions require practice.

Common Mistakes

Shooting too soon: Let birds work the decoys. Patience produces closer, easier shots than skybusting at 50+ yards.

Underleading: Ducks and geese are faster than they appear. Most waterfowl misses are behind the bird.

Using the wrong choke: Many hunters use Full choke because it's what came in the gun. Open up for close decoy shots.

Ignoring range: Steel shot loses energy quickly. A 50-yard shot with steel is marginal at best. Know your effective range.

Practice for Waterfowl

Practice Incoming Targets

Decoying birds often approach head-on. Look for clay stations with incoming presentations.

Shoot from a Seated Position

If your range allows, practice mounting and shooting while seated. This mimics blind shooting.

Wear Your Hunting Clothes

Heavy jackets, gloves, and waders affect your mount. Practice in what you'll actually wear.

Focus on Long Crossers

Sporting clays stations with 35-40 yard crossing targets simulate pass shooting conditions.

Equipment Considerations

Shotgun

• 12 gauge most versatile
• 3" chamber recommended (3.5" optional)
• Synthetic stocks resist moisture better
• Semi-auto offers fast follow-up shots
• Pumps are reliable and affordable

Camouflage & Concealment

• Match camo to environment (marsh, timber, field)
• Face mask or paint is essential
• Ducks and geese have excellent vision
• Movement kills more hunts than wrong camo

Getting Started

Get Proper Licenses

You need a hunting license, state waterfowl stamp, and federal duck stamp. Know bag limits and seasons.

Hunt with Experienced Mentors

Waterfowl hunting has a steep learning curve. Go with someone who knows decoy placement, calling, and local spots.

Consider Guided Hunts

Professional guides provide gear, access, and expertise. A great way to experience waterfowl hunting before investing heavily.

Start with Public Land

Many wildlife management areas offer waterfowl hunting. Scout before season, learn the area, be prepared to work for birds.

Waterfowl Hunting