Gear checklist
Duck and Goose Hunting Gear Checklist 2026
Waterfowl hunting: what to carry by category, 13 products hunters buy, and the federal and state rules to check first.
Photo: AGFC via USFWS Southeast (PD Mark)
What to bring, by category
The checklist below covers what duck and goose hunters carry in most states. Laws on orange, weapons and methods are set by each state, so the rules section links every state we cover.
Waders
Insulated neoprene chest waders for cold water and late-season hunts; breathable waders for early teal and warm days.
Decoys
A dozen or more mallards for most ponds and marshes, full-body Canada goose decoys for field hunts, and a spinning-wing or jerk rig to add motion. Some states restrict motion decoys during part of the season.
Blind
A layout blind for field hunts, or a boat or shore blind built from local cover. A waterproof blind bag keeps shells, calls and your phone dry.
Calls
A duck call and a goose call. Practice before opening day; calling too much flares more birds than calling too little.
Rigging
Anchors and decoy line, and a slotted decoy bag so you can carry a spread in one trip.
Clothing
A waterproof jacket and layers under it, gloves you can shoot in, and heated gear for long cold sits.
Dog gear
A neoprene vest keeps a retriever warm in cold water and adds flotation.
Shells and safety
Nontoxic shot is required for waterfowl everywhere in the U.S. Carry a headlamp for setting decoys before shooting light and a throw rope if you hunt from a boat.
13 duck and goose hunting products hunters buy
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TideWe Seeker Pro Insulated Neoprene Chest Waders
5 mm neoprene with 1,400 g Thinsulate in the boots.
$180 to $190
TideWe Heated Duck Hunting Jacket
Three heat settings, up to 10 hours on low.
$150 to $160
Higdon Standard Mallard Decoys 12 Pack
12 foam-filled decoys: 8 drakes and 4 hens.
about $135
Hardcore Rugged Series Full-Body Canada Goose Feeder Decoys 6-Pack
Six 25 in full-body decoys with motion bases and stakes.
$240 to $260
Avery Finisher Layout Blind
18 lb aluminum frame; folds to 52 x 17 x 6 in.
about $360
Duck Commander Jase Robertson Pro Series Duck Call
Acrylic double reed call with a poly insert.
$53 to $77
Zink Calls PC-1 Polycarbonate Goose Call
Polycarbonate short-reed call made in the USA.
about $30
Rig'Em Right Xtreme Coated Cable Decoy Anchor 12-Pack
12 coated cable anchor rigs per pack.
about $48
Higdon Outdoors 12-Slot Duck Decoy Bag
12 slots for mag or full-body decoys, mesh drain bottom.
about $65
MOJO Elite Series King Mallard Spinning Wing Decoy
Drop-in lithium battery with a built-in remote receiver.
$190 to $200
Banded Air Elite Blind Bag
Waterproof bottom with foam that floats the bag.
about $130
Rig'Em Right Bloodline Elite Dog Vest
Neoprene vest with a foam flotation layer, M to 2XL.
about $100
Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp
400 lumens with a red mode for setting decoys in the dark.
about $55
Prices are as listed on maker and retailer pages checked on November 10, 2026, rounded to the dollar. Sale and clearance prices end; check the current listing before buying.
Rules differ by state
Every waterfowl hunter 16 and older needs a federal duck stamp, and every state requires HIP registration for migratory bird hunting. Zones, season splits, bag limits and shooting hours are set by each state. Pick your state below for its laws page.
Duck and goose hunting gear FAQ
What do I need to start duck hunting?
A license, the federal duck stamp if you are 16 or older, HIP registration, a shotgun with nontoxic shot, waders, a dozen decoys and a duck call.
Do I need a federal duck stamp?
Yes, waterfowl hunters 16 and older need the federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp in addition to state licenses.
Can I use lead shot for ducks?
No. Nontoxic shot such as steel, bismuth or tungsten is required for all waterfowl hunting in the U.S.
How many decoys do I need?
A dozen mallards covers most small ponds and creeks. Field goose hunters often start with six full-body decoys and add more over time.
Are neoprene or breathable waders better?
Neoprene is warmer for cold water and late season. Breathable waders are lighter for early season and long walks.
Are spinning-wing decoys legal?
Rules vary. Some states ban or limit motion decoys during part of the duck season. Check your state's laws page from the links here.
Are the prices current?
They are the prices listed on maker and retailer pages checked on November 10, 2026. Prices change; the buttons open current listings.
Are these products tested here?
No. Specs and prices come from the makers and retailers.