Waterfowl, pay attention. We’ve got the scoop on the gear you need this season.
ALPS OutdoorZ Backpack Blind Bag
Backpack-style blind bags are quickly becoming the go-to system for serious waterfowl hunters, and this one from ALPS has sporty features that set it apart from the crowd. In addition to two roomy main compartments, this backpack houses a large front pocket for smaller items, belt loops, choke tube holders, a protected pocket for your sunglasses, a water bottle pocket, padded shoulder straps, bird leashes and a hard, waterproof bottom that houses its own storage compartment, ideal for keeping your sandwich from breaking. Available in Realtree Timber and MAX-5 camo. MSRP: $119.99; alpsoutdoorz.com.
Browning Wicked Blend Waterfowl Loads
Waterfowl shot shells have come a long way since lead shot was banned. And while there are still those who will say “nothing compares,” those folks likely haven’t fired any of the modern high-density bismuth loads on the market. Browning’s new Wicked Blend offers the best of Bismuth and steel shot in one coat. Browning stacks energy-retaining bismuth over steel shot (30/70) in 3-inch 20 and 12-gauge cartridges, and 3.5-inch 12-gauge cartridges, backed by a newly designed “Wicked Wad” to maintain adjusted patterns. Available blends include BB/No. 1 Bismuth and steel No. 2/No. 4 Bismuth. MSRP: $29.99-$39.99; browningammo.com.
Rig’Em Right Xtreme Ghillie Designer Shade
A low profile and interchangeable ghillie covers allow the Xtreme Ghillie Designer Shade to provide the best concealment in almost any location and cover. Coated in Gore-Tex Optifade Marsh camo on the body and waterproof cover, this blind ships with a “Prairie” ghillie, ideal for cornstalks and dry fields, and has plenty of stubble straps to add native vegetation. Additional green and white ghillie covers (sold separately) allow this comfortable, lightweight shade to disappear into winter wheat or a variety of snow goose decoys. MSRP: $289.99; rigemright.com.
Mallard Duck Avian-X PowerFlight
The feature-packed PowerFlight Mallard is a powered rotary wing lure that really does have it all. The Mallard Duck Landing Duck’s durable shell has a non-flaking paint finish and is equipped with two-sided “Angel Wings” that offer 360 degrees of swivel and continuous or intermittent flash. Remotely operated from up to 60 yards, the PowerFlight Mallard runs on an included lithium-ion battery for up to 16 hours and can be easily recharged via the external charging port. It will also work with a standard 6-volt lead-acid battery. MSRP: $199.99; avian-x.com.
Alpha Agility Select Lacrosse Waders
These breathable waders were constructed with an abrasion resistant nylon shell around a removable 120 gram insulated quilted liner to lock in warmth and allow for maximum comfort and mobility. The lightweight Alpha Agility Boots are made from hand-laid rubber over a neoprene core and feature 1600G Thinsulate Ultra insulation and a quick-drying, moisture-wicking jersey lining. Water-resistant tech case protects your phone and other devices. These chest jeans convert to pant jeans by rolling up the top. Available in Mossy Oak Bottomland and Realtree MAX-5 camo patterns. MSRP: $650; lacrossefootwear.com.