Get ready for some serious duck hunting in the Lone Star State! This 4-hour private trip with Texas Fins and Feathers puts you right in the thick of prime waterfowl country. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the blind, you'll have a chance to bag some of Texas' finest ducks in their natural habitat. With expert guides who know these waters like the back of their hand, you're in for a hunt you won't soon forget.
Picture this: You're hunkered down in a well-concealed blind as the first light of dawn breaks over the Texas wetlands. The air is crisp, and the sound of wings overhead gets your heart racing. That's what you're in for on this 4-hour duck hunting adventure. We'll set you up with everything you need – from calls to decoys – to bring in the birds. This trip is perfect for pairs, so grab your hunting buddy and get ready for some quality time in the great outdoors. Just remember to bring your A-game and a good thermos of coffee – early mornings are part of the duck hunting package!
Duck hunting in Texas is all about location, timing, and a bit of luck. We'll be using traditional jump shooting and pass shooting techniques, depending on where the birds are flying that day. You'll need to be quick on the draw and have a good eye to make the most of your shots. We provide top-notch shotguns, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer. Waders are a must – you might find yourself knee-deep in some of the best duck habitat in the state. And don't worry about calling; our guides are pros at bringing in the ducks with some of the most realistic quacks and whistles you've ever heard.
Northern Pintail: These sleek, fast-flying ducks are a favorite among Texas hunters. Known for their distinctive long necks and tails, pintails are challenging targets that'll test your shooting skills. They're typically most abundant during the early part of the season, so book early if you're after these beauties.
Wood Duck: With their stunning plumage, woodies are like the supermodels of the duck world. They're fast and agile, often sticking close to the trees along the water's edge. Getting a wood duck in your bag is always a highlight – they're not just gorgeous, but tasty too.
Mallard: The classic duck that every hunter knows and loves. Mallards are plentiful in Texas waters and make for great eating. They're smart birds, though, so be prepared for some crafty decoy work to bring them in close.
Mottled Duck: These year-round Texas residents are similar to mallards but with their own unique charm. They're a bit more challenging to hunt because they're less likely to decoy, but bagging a mottled duck is a true Texan trophy.
Blue-winged Teal: If you're looking for fast action, blue-winged teal are your birds. These small, speedy ducks often fly in large groups and can really get your heart pumping. They're early migrants, so you'll see plenty of them in the first part of the season.
Our hunting grounds are a mix of flooded timber, open water, and marshy areas – prime real estate for ducks of all kinds. Depending on the day and the birds' patterns, we might set up in a stationary blind or do some run-and-gun style hunting. Either way, you're in for an authentic Texas duck hunting experience. The weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and be ready for anything from a crisp, clear morning to a drizzly, overcast day. Remember, ducks love that nasty weather, so don't let a little rain dampen your spirits!
There's something special about duck hunting in Texas that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the way the mist rises off the water at dawn, or the thrill of watching a flock respond to your call. Or it could be the satisfaction of a well-placed shot and a retriever bringing back your bird. Whatever it is, this trip offers that classic duck hunting experience that's hard to beat. Plus, with our knowledgeable guides, even newcomers to the sport can get in on the action and learn the ropes in a supportive environment.
While we provide the essentials like decoys, calls, and blinds, there are a few things you'll want to bring along to make the most of your hunt. A good pair of waders is crucial – you'll likely be getting wet, and staying dry is key to enjoying your time out there. Bring warm, waterproof clothing and don't forget your hunting license and duck stamps. A pair of binoculars can be handy for spotting incoming birds, and some snacks and water will keep you fueled up for the hunt. Oh, and don't forget to grab some hand warmers – your trigger finger will thank you on those chilly mornings!
At Texas Fins and Feathers, we're not just about the hunt – we're committed to preserving waterfowl habitat for generations to come. We follow all state and federal regulations to ensure sustainable hunting practices. By participating in this trip, you're not only having a great time but also contributing to conservation efforts. We'll teach you about the importance of wetland preservation and how hunters play a crucial role in maintaining healthy duck populations. It's all part of being a responsible outdoorsman (or woman!).
Some of the best stories come from time spent in the duck blind. Whether it's watching a perfect sunrise, sharing a laugh with your hunting buddy, or the excitement of a successful shot, these are the moments that stick with you. Our guides have plenty of tales to tell, and they're always happy to share their knowledge and experiences. Who knows – you might just end up with a new hunting story of your own to take home and share around the campfire.
Ready to give those Texas ducks a run for their money? This 4-hour private duck hunting trip is calling your name. With expert guides, prime hunting spots, and the chance to bag a variety of waterfowl, it's a can't-miss opportunity for any duck hunter. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to lock in your spot. Grab your hunting partner, pack your gear, and get ready for some world-class duck hunting in the heart of Texas. Book now and let's get after those birds!
Blue-winged Teal are small, speedy ducks that give Texas hunters a run for their money. Weighing in at just under a pound, these little guys are known for their fast, erratic flight. You'll find them in shallow wetlands, flooded fields, and along the edges of lakes and ponds. Blue-wings are early migrants, so the best hunting is often in September during the special teal season. That's when huge flocks push through on their way south. Hunters love the challenge of hitting these fast flyers, plus they're mighty tasty on the grill. To improve your odds, look for areas with lots of floating and submerged vegetation – that's where they find their favorite foods. Here's a local tip: Blue-wings often fly low over the water, so set your decoys close to cover where you can hide well. And don't forget to brush up on your wing ID – in the low light of early morning, it's easy to mistake them for other species.
Mallards are the bread and butter of duck hunting in Texas. These hefty birds usually weigh in around 2.5 to 3 pounds. You'll spot them in all kinds of wetlands – marshes, ponds, lakes, you name it. They're not picky. Mallards are most abundant during fall and winter when northern birds migrate down. Hunters love 'em for their size, widespread availability, and how good they taste on the table. Plus, there's nothing quite like seeing a flock of greenheads cupping their wings as they drop into your decoys. Speaking of decoys, Mallards respond well to them. I like to use a mix of hen and drake decoys in small groups. As for calling, Mallards are pretty vocal. A good series of quacks can really bring them in. Here's a local trick: on windy days, set your decoys close to the downwind edge of your spread. Mallards often land right there, giving you an easier shot.
Mottled Ducks are like the Texas natives of the duck world. They're year-round residents, mostly found along the Gulf Coast and into East Texas. About the size of a Mallard, these birds prefer coastal marshes, rice fields, and freshwater wetlands. They're not as common as some other species, which makes them a special treat for hunters. Mottled Ducks are known for being wary and hard to approach, so stealth is key. The best time to hunt them is early in the season, before they've been pressured too much. Hunters appreciate their sizeable body and rich, gamey flavor. To up your chances, focus on areas with plenty of aquatic vegetation – that's their main food source. A tip from my playbook: these ducks aren't big on large flocks, so keep your decoy spread small and realistic. Maybe 6-12 decoys max. And go easy on the calling – a few soft, raspy quacks now and then is all you need.
Northern Pintails are sleek, elegant ducks with long necks and pointed tails. They're medium-sized, usually weighing 1.5 to 2.5 pounds. You'll find them in shallow wetlands, flooded fields, and coastal bays across Texas. These ducks are fast flyers and skittish, making them a real challenge for hunters. They're most abundant during fall migration, typically peaking in November. Pintails are prized for their lean, tasty meat and the drake's beautiful plumage. To improve your chances, scout areas with lots of aquatic vegetation and seeds – that's their favorite food. Early morning hunts are best, as pintails often feed at first light. If you're setting decoys, try placing a few on land near the water's edge – pintails like to loaf there between feeding sessions. Remember, they've got sharp eyes, so good camouflage is key.
Wood Ducks are real beauties – some of the most colorful ducks you'll see in Texas. They're on the smaller side, about a pound or so. Unlike most ducks, these guys love wooded areas near water. You'll find them in swamps, flooded timber, and along tree-lined creeks. They're year-round residents here, but hunting's best in fall and winter. Wood Ducks are fast and agile, darting through trees like nobody's business. That makes for some exciting shooting. Hunters love 'em for the challenge and their top-notch eating quality. To bag a Wood Duck, try setting up near their roosting areas just before dawn. They'll often fly out to feeding spots as the sun comes up. A tip from me: use a wood duck call sparingly. These birds aren't big talkers, so a few soft yelps now and then is plenty. And keep an eye out for that distinctive white eye patch – it's a dead giveaway in flight.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: 502 Chevy
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 502