What to Pack for Waterfowl & Upland Birds

Pack This First

1. The correct license, permits, stamps or certifications for the species and location.
2. A legal shotgun setup and the shot type allowed for that hunt.
3. Eye and hearing protection, plus blaze orange where required or sensible.
4. Boots for the cover; waterfowl may call for correctly fitted waders and a wading belt.
5. Waterproof layers for a marsh, breathable layers and a game vest for upland walking.
6. Drinking water for you and any dog, plus snacks.
7. A headlamp, first aid and communication protected from water.
8. Calls and decoys only when useful for the species and permitted.
9. A dog first-aid plan and safe transport if hunting with a retriever or pointing dog.
10. Game straps or a vest and a plan to clean, cool and transport birds legally.

Adjust For Your Hunt

Texas Waterfowl

Check nontoxic shot, stamp, certification, bag-limit and water-safety requirements before leaving. A marsh setup is not an upland walking kit. Hunt Information

Texas Dove & Quail

Prioritize water, sun protection, comfortable walking boots and appropriate bird identification. Dove field sits and quail walks need different carry systems. Hunt Information

Gear For This List

Match the model, size and weather protection to your hunt. Check the current store price and availability before buying.

• 

  Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 binoculars

  $199.49

  See At OpticsPlanetOut of Stock
• 

  Petzl ACTIK CORE

  $87.95

  See At OpticsPlanet
• 

  Zink Ph-2 Duck Call Poly Single, Mallard Green, ZNK-ZNK963

  $26.89

  See At OpticsPlanet
• 

  Adventure Medical Kits Adventure First Aid

  $11.49

  See At OpticsPlanet

Before You Leave

Check current wildlife-agency regulations and your permit, confirm access and weather, test the kit with weight, and leave your route and return time with someone you trust. Pack emergency supplies for a delayed return.