✨ Specialised techniquesIntermediate

Waterfowl Hunting

Ducks and geese drawn in by decoys in front of a blind, on the water or in fields. The quintessential shotgun hunt.

Best conditions
Grey, windy weather that keeps birds flying low, migration periods, dawn over the water.
Best seasons
Fall · September · October · November

Waterfowl hunting in Quebec

Waterfowl hunting targets ducks and geese. You set out decoys in front of a camouflaged blind, then lure the birds with calls and a shotgun. It is a marsh, mudflat and field hunt that is hugely popular in fall during the great migrations.

Decoys and spread

Decoy placement makes all the difference:

  • Form an open "U" or "J" facing the wind to leave a clear landing zone
  • Mix duck and goose decoys based on your target species
  • Set your blind with the sun behind you and crosswind
  • Birds always land into the wind: plan your shooting zone accordingly

Calling and the blind

Use a duck or goose call sparingly. Stay still and hidden, face down: waterfowl spot the slightest movement and upturned faces. Camouflage with camo clothing suited to the environment.

Practical tips

  • Use a shotgun and non-toxic shot (steel, mandatory for waterfowl)
  • A retriever dog is a major asset for recovering birds on the water
  • Bring binoculars to spot distant flocks
  • Check the federal migratory bird hunting calendar and required permit

Recommended gear

cache camoufleevetements camouflagejumelles telemetrecouteau chasse

Required gear

Shotgun and non-toxic (steel) shotDuck and goose decoysCamouflaged blind or marsh hutCamouflage clothing and waterproof wadersDuck and goose callsRetriever dog (asset)

Safety tips

Handle the shotgun carefully in a boat and keep it unloaded while movingClearly identify the species before shooting (some are protected)Wear a flotation device in a boat or deep waterNever fire horizontally toward other hunters or boats

Common mistakes

Looking up as birds approach and flaring them offPlacing decoys poorly relative to the windUsing lead shot, which is banned for waterfowlShooting too far and wounding birds you cannot recover
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