Waterfowlers, pay attention. We've got the scoop on the gear you need this season.
ALPS OutdoorZ Backpack Blind Bag
Backpack-style blind bags are fast becoming the go-to system for serious waterfowl hunters, and this one from ALPS sports features that set it apart from the crowd. Aside from two roomy main compartments, this backpack houses a large front pocket for smaller items, shell loops, choke tube holders, a protected pocket for your sunglasses, a water bottle pocket, padded shoulder straps, bird straps and a hard, waterproof bottom that houses its own storage compartment, ideal for keeping your sandwich from being smashed. Available in Realtree Timber and MAX-5 camo. MSRP: $119.99; alpsoutdoorz.com.
Browning Wicked Blend Waterfowl Loads
Waterfowl shotshells have come a long way since lead shot was outlawed. And though there are still those who will claim “nothing compares,” chances are those folks haven’t shot any of the modern high-density Bismuth loads on the market. New from Browning, Wicked Blend offers the best of both Bismuth and a steel shot in one shell. Browning stacks energy retaining Bismuth over steel shot (30/70) in 20- and 12-gauge 3-inch shells, and 12-gauge 3.5-inch shells, backed by a newly designed “Wicked Wad” to keep patterns tight. Available blends include BB steel/No. 1 Bismuth and No. 2 steel/No. 4 Bismuth. MSRP: $29.99-$39.99; browningammo.com.
Rig’Em Right Xtreme Ghillie Layout Blind
A low profile and interchangeable ghillie covers enable the Xtreme Ghillie layout blind to provide ultimate concealment in just about any location and cover. Clad in Gore-Tex Optifade Marsh camo on the body and water-shedding cover, this blind ships with a “Prairie” ghillie, ideal for corn stalks and dry fields, and has plenty of stubble straps to add native vegetation. Additional Green and White ghillie covers (sold separately) allow this comfortable and lightweight blind to disappear in winter wheat or a spread of snow-goose decoys. MSRP: $289.99; rigemright.com.
Avian-X PowerFlight Mallard
The feature-rich PowerFlight Mallard is a motorized spinning-wing decoy that truly has it all. The durable housing of the landing drake mallard is finished with a no-flake paint and fitted with dual-sided “Angel Wings” offering 360 degrees of continuous or intermittent spinning and flashing. Remote operated from up to 60 yards, the PowerFlight Mallard runs off an included lithium-Ion battery for up to 16 hours, and can be easily recharged via the external charging port. It will also run off a standard 6-volt lead-acid battery. MSRP: $199.99; avian-x.com.
Lacrosse Alpha Agility Select Waders
These breathable waders were built with an abrasion-resistant nylon shell around a removable, quilted liner with 120-gram insulation to keep you warm while allowing for maximum comfort and mobility. Lightweight Alpha Agility boots are made from a hand-laid rubber over a neoprene core and sport 1600G Thinsulate Ultra insulation and a quick-drying, moisture wicking jersey liner. Waterproof tech pouch protects your phone and other gadgets. These chest waders convert to pant waders by rolling down the top. Available in Mossy Oak Bottomland and Realtree MAX-5 camo patterns. MSRP: $650; lacrossefootwear.com.
