A well-chosen duck boat has the ability to offer a wide range of opportunities for the water fowler.
But, a fully outfitted hunting boat can be a large investment, so it is critical to carefully research the available options in the market.
Critical issues to evaluate include:
- Where you hunt
- Hunting style
- Amount of gear carried
- Passengers on board
- Traveling distance
- Other uses for the boat
What are the different hull configurations?
V-bottom
A V-bottom boat is the most practical choice for use on large bodies of water, such as major estuaries and the Great Lakes. The majority are manufactured in fiberglass or aluminum, which makes them reliable enough for the wide-ranging hunting activities. The V-hulled boats are stable and heavy with sharp enough keels to move through the water. Also high transoms and gunwales prevent water washing over the sides.
Semi-V
A versatile option comes with the modified-V or semi-V hulled boats which is a popular model with duck hunters. This type of boat is constructed with a mild keel and pointed bow to help part waves while also have a flat bottom for using on shallow bodies of water. They are often made with the sole intention of waterfowl hunting in mind and quickly fitted with a concealing blind.
Flat-bottom
A Jon boat with flat-bottom is perfect for shallow waters and even more efficient when combined with a mud motor. Most are built with a high degree of stability with a wide and open platform that is perfect for installing a boat blind. But, the square bow can give a quite rough ride in the more difficult waters.
Outboard motors
2-stroke
A duck boat is easily combined with a 2 or 4 stroke outboard motor. 2-stroke outboards are a versatile and reliable option. They are more cost-effective, portable, and lighter compared to the 4-stroke. Plus, the 2-stroke units usually give more responsiveness and acceleration compared to the 4-strokes. But, the 4 stroke outboard is more fuel efficient and quieter than the 2-stroke motors.
4-stroke
Modern duck boats are fitted with the 4-stroke motors for the fact it isn’t necessary to mix and measure oil and gas, quieter to operate, more fuel-efficient, and overall cleaner to use. Plus, the 4-stroke outboard is more efficient at providing a higher top-end speed compared to the 2-stroke units. The 4-stroke motors do present certain issues though, including being more expensive, larger, and heavier.
Mud Motors
Mud motors come with a choice of configurations: surface-drive and long-tail. They are highly effective at riding over obstructions and the preferred choice for passing over shallow waters compared to the more traditional motors in the market. Both configurations are practical for 2-3 inches of water, but the surface drive is the most desirable option to use for soft bottom and open areas. Use the long-tail motors when likely to experience issues with stumps or similar obstacles.
Outfit with accessories
Essential accessories for the duck hunter can vary and might consist of a bow-mounted floodlights, plug-in spotlight, trolling motor, depth finder, bilge pump, gas tank, anchor, fire extinguisher, life jackets, etc.