Ready for some serious waterfowl action? Hop aboard Capt. Greg Wozniak's 24' Sea Ark for a day of open water duck hunting you won't forget. We're talking prime spots for mallards, black ducks, pintails, and more. Greg's got years under his waders and knows exactly where to set up for the best shooting. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your shotgun and let's bag some ducks!
Picture this: You're cruising out on the original platform used by the legendary Capt. Kenny Lewis himself. The Sea Ark's rock-solid, giving you a stable base for those long-range shots. Greg's got his eyes peeled, scanning for the telltale V-formations or splashes that mean ducks are in the area. Once we find a hot spot, we'll set up the decoys and hunker down. The anticipation builds as the sky starts to lighten and the first ducks start flying. That's when the real fun begins. Greg's there to offer tips on your technique, help you ID different species on the wing, and make sure everyone's having a blast.
This ain't your grandpa's pond hunting. We're talking open water gunning, which means you've got to be on your toes. The ducks come in fast and low over the water, so quick reflexes are key. We use a mix of diving and puddle duck decoys to draw in a variety of species. The Sea Ark's got plenty of room for gear, so we're packing all the essentials - layout blinds, waders, calls, the works. Greg's a pro at reading the wind and setting up the spread just right. And let me tell you, there's nothing like the rush of seeing a flock of ducks cup their wings and commit to your decoys. It's the kind of action that keeps waterfowlers coming back year after year.
Mallards: The bread and butter of duck hunting. These big, beautiful birds are a favorite for both their size and taste. Mallards are wary and can spot a sloppy setup from a mile away, so when you fool a flock of greenheads, you know you're doing something right. They're most active in the early morning and late afternoon, so be ready for some dawn patrol action.
Black Ducks: Often called the "black mallard," these ducks are prized for their wariness and dark, distinctive plumage. They're typically found in smaller groups than mallards and are known for their excellent table fare. Black ducks are early migrators, so we often see good numbers in the fall.
Northern Pintail: With their long, elegant necks and pointed tails, pintails are some of the most striking ducks you'll see. They're fast flyers and tend to be more challenging targets. Pintails are usually found in more open areas and are often one of the first ducks to arrive in the morning.
American Wigeon: Also known as "baldpates" for the white stripe on top of the drake's head, wigeons are lively little ducks. They're often found in mixed flocks with other puddle ducks and have a distinctive whistling call. Wigeons are grass-eaters and tend to prefer shallower water.
Gadwall: Sometimes overlooked by hunters, gadwalls are actually a worthy quarry. They're fast flyers and can provide challenging shooting. Gadwalls often hang out with other duck species and can be attracted to decoy spreads meant for mallards or pintails. They're late migrators, so you might see more of them as the season progresses.
Alright, let's talk gear. You'll want to bring your shotgun (12 gauge is standard, but 20 gauge works too if that's your preference), plenty of steel shot (no lead allowed for waterfowl), and your hunting license with duck stamp. Dress in layers - it can get chilly out on the water. Waterproof jacket and pants are a must, and don't forget good warm gloves. Bring some snacks and water to keep you going through the morning. Greg's got the boat, decoys, and blind setup covered, so you just focus on being ready to shoot. Oh, and don't forget your camera - you're gonna want to remember this!
There's something special about duck hunting on open water that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the challenge of calling in a flock of wary birds. Or the satisfaction of making a clean shot on a fast-moving target. Could be the camaraderie of sharing a blind with good friends, swapping stories and laughs between volleys. For many, it's the connection to nature - watching the sun rise over the water, seeing all kinds of wildlife, not just ducks. Whatever it is that draws you in, a day out with Capt. Greg is sure to scratch that waterfowl itch.
Look, if you're itching for some top-notch duck hunting action, this is the trip for you. Capt. Greg knows his stuff, the boat's comfortable and well-equipped, and the hunting grounds are prime. Whether you're looking to fill your limit with a mixed bag or holding out for that trophy pintail, we've got you covered. Just remember, spots fill up fast, especially during peak migration times. So don't wait - get your crew together and lock in your date now. Oh, and don't forget, deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you book. Ready to pull the trigger on an awesome day of duck hunting? Give Capt. Ken's Wild Wings a call and let's get you out on the water!
American Wigeons, often called "Baldpates" due to the white crown on drakes, are lively ducks that add excitement to any hunt. These medium-sized birds are known for their round heads and short bills. Males sport a distinctive green mask and white forehead, while females have overall grayish-brown plumage. Wigeons prefer shallow, open waters like marshes, lakes, and bays, where they feed mainly on aquatic vegetation. They're most abundant during fall migration, typically peaking in October and November. Hunters enjoy pursuing Wigeons for their sporty nature and delicious meat. These ducks are fast flyers and often travel in mixed flocks, making for varied hunting opportunities. When setting up for Wigeons, I like to use a mix of Wigeon and Pintail decoys in open water. They're also known to be "puddle pirates," often stealing food from diving ducks, so setting up near other duck species can be effective. Listen for their distinctive whistling call – it's a telltale sign Wigeons are in the area.
Black Ducks are the bruisers of the duck world – dark, hardy, and built to handle tough conditions. They're about the size of a Mallard but with deep chocolate-brown plumage and a violet-blue speculum. You'll find these birds in a variety of wetland habitats, from coastal marshes to wooded swamps. They're most active at dawn and dusk, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, and small crustaceans. Black Ducks are wary and often the first to flush, making them a prized target for hunters. They're also known for their excellent meat quality. Fall and early winter are prime times for Black Duck hunting, especially during cold fronts when they're on the move. These birds are notoriously shy, so concealment is crucial. I always tell folks to really focus on their blinds and keep movement to a minimum. A small spread of decoys often works better than a large one for Black Ducks. If you can mimic their low, raspy call, you'll have a better chance of bringing them in close.
Gadwalls might not be the flashiest ducks out there, but they're a favorite among seasoned hunters. These medium-sized birds are often called "gray ducks" due to their subtle coloring. Males have intricate gray and brown patterns, while females sport mottled brown feathers. You'll typically find Gadwalls in shallow wetlands, marshes, and ponds, where they feed on aquatic vegetation. They're late migrants, so mid to late season is usually best for targeting them. Gadwalls are known for their fast, erratic flight patterns, which make them a challenging and fun target. They're also excellent table fare, with a mild, less gamey taste than some other ducks. When hunting Gadwalls, I've found that using a mix of Gadwall and Mallard decoys can be effective. These social birds often hang out with other duck species, so a diverse spread can work wonders. Keep an eye out for their distinctive white wing patches when they're in flight – it's a dead giveaway.
Northern Pintails are sleek, elegant ducks known for their long necks and pointed tails. Males sport a chocolate brown head and white breast, while females have mottled brown plumage. These fast flyers prefer shallow wetlands and open water areas, often seen dabbling for aquatic plants and insects. Fall migration is prime time to spot Pintails, as they move south in large numbers. Hunters prize them for their sporty flight and tasty meat. Pintails are wary birds, so patience is key. They respond well to decoy spreads that mimic their natural feeding patterns. I've had good luck setting up near the edges of marshes or flooded fields where they like to rest and feed. If you're after Pintails, practice your long-range shooting – these birds have keen eyesight and often fly high. Getting a Pintail is always a highlight of any duck hunt, thanks to their striking appearance and challenging nature.