Waterfowl hunters understand they must exercise some additional safety precautions while out in the field. Some skills transfer from upland bird hunting, but other skills and practices are unique to the waterfront. This is especially true of using boats safely to pursue waterfowl. Concerns center on boat preparation, hunting from a boat, and keeping a weather eye out.
Safe Boat Preparation
These preparation notes are nothing new to experienced boaters. Duck hunters may only use their boats seasonally and it’s a good idea to take some time to ensure needed safety gear is onboard. Most states have adopted boat equipment requirements that mirror those of the United States Coast Guard (USCG). Here are some things that need to be onboard a boat prior to making a hunting trip:
- Carry an USCG approved lifejacket for every person onboard and be sure to wear them. Newer styles of lifejackets are comfortable and designed specifically for waterfowl hunting.
- Boats 16 feet and longer are required to carry a throwable personal flotation device. The most common type carried is a floating seat cushion. It is a good idea for boats of any size to carry one of these lifesaving devices.
- Be sure that boat engine maintenance is current and there is enough fuel onboard for the hunting trip. Remember the rule of thirds for fuel use planning; plan to use a third of the fuel outbound, a third of it to return and save a third of the tank as a reserve.
- File a float plan with the harbormaster or a close friend.
- Carry a handheld marine VHF radio. Cellphones don’t work everywhere and agencies like the USCG only monitor radio traffic.
Hunting from a Boat
Being on a boat limits movement and hunters need to operate in close quarters with others that are onboard. Boats can be unstable and hunters need to consider these factors in their actions:
- Avoid standing up in an unsecured boat to shoot. Shoot from only from a comfortable angle, don’t reach for a shot.
- Treat shooting from a boat the same as being in a blind. Try to sit shoulder to shoulder with partners. Plan shooting areas ahead of time and stick to them.
- Be careful of dogs in a small boat. Anticipate that they can upset both hunters and the stability of a boat.
- Keep guns unloaded and in a case while moving from one hunting spot to another. Purchasing a floating gun case is definitely less expensive than an unprotected gun being unexpectedly dropped overboard.
- Avoid wearing hip waders while onboard a boat. A fall overboard with waders on can compromise a person’s ability to float or swim.
- Avoid overloading the boat and distribute gear evenly on the vessel. An overloaded boat will sit lower in the water and is easily capsized.
- Hug the shoreline when using a small boat. Open water and severe weather can overwhelm a duck boat.
Waterfowl hunters need to keep an eye on the weather and watch for changing conditions. It is important to monitor local marine weather forecasts. Remember to double check the current hunting regulations before leaving and have a safe, successful trip!
Alan Sorum - Alan Sorum is the Maritime Operations Project Manager for the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens' Advisory Council (PWSRCAC). Alan is ...
