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Duck Hunting Checklist
Tennessee's main duck season runs from late November through January, with an early wood duck and teal season in September. Federal and state rules on shot and gun capacity apply to every waterfowl hunt.
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Required by Tennessee law for this hunt: nontoxic (steel) waterfowl shells and shotgun magazine plug.
Nontoxic (steel) waterfowl shells
Tennessee rules require waterfowl to be hunted with nontoxic shot of T size or smaller; lead shot is illegal for ducks.
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Shotgun magazine plug
Shotguns used for migratory game birds may hold no more than three shells, so a magazine plug is required unless the gun is already limited to three.
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Insulated chest waders
Most Tennessee duck hunting means standing in flooded timber, sloughs or marsh, often in freezing weather.
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Duck decoys
A decoy spread pulls passing ducks into range and shows them where to land.
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Decoy bag
A decoy bag makes it practical to carry a spread in and out of the marsh.
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Duck call
Calling turns passing ducks and brings them back around to the spread.
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Camo face mask
Turkeys spot a bare face fast; a mask hides skin and movement.
Waterproof decoy gloves
Setting and picking up decoys in cold water soaks ordinary gloves.
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Waterproof blind bag
A waterproof bag keeps shells, calls, license and phone dry in the boat or blind.
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Shell pouch
A shell pouch keeps nontoxic shells handy and separate from any lead loads at home.
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Headlamp
You walk in before legal shooting light, 30 minutes before sunrise, and out after dark.
Merino base layers
Wool base layers stay warm when damp, which matters on cold, wet mornings.
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Spending more on a duck hunting setup?
Checklists for hunts other than duck hunting
Season dates and limits: Ducks and Geese. Legal weapons and blaze orange: Tennessee hunting laws.
Duck Hunting checklist questions
What do I need for duck hunting in Tennessee?
The 12 items above, starting with nontoxic (steel) waterfowl shells, shotgun magazine plug and insulated chest waders.
What gear does Tennessee law require?
For this hunt: nontoxic (steel) waterfowl shells and shotgun magazine plug.
Do these links cost more?
No. Affiliate links do not change the price.
Do you test this gear?
No. Each item links to a search of current listings.
Where can I buy locally?
See the archery and sporting goods directory.
Is blaze orange required?
For big game during gun and muzzleloader hunts, 500 square inches on the upper body and head.
Are crossbows legal?
Yes, in every deer, bear, elk and turkey season.
When is the season?
See Ducks and Geese for 2026-27 dates.