Top-Rated California Duck Hunts | Waterfowl Pursuit

California Duck Hunt: Mallards & More

Ready to bag some ducks in the Golden State? Waterfowl Pursuit Guide Service has you covered with prime hunts in California's rich wetlands. We're talking October 26th through January 31st - prime time for Mallards and a whole mess of other waterfowl. Whether you're a seasoned wing-shooter or new to the blind, we'll put you on birds and make sure you have a blast doing it.

Inside the Hunt

Picture this: You're hunkered down in a well-placed rice blind, surrounded by California's sprawling wetlands. The air's crisp, decoys are set, and you're right in the thick of major flyways. We're not messing around - these blinds are strategically placed to give you the best shot at limits of Mallards, Pintails, Widgeon, Teal, Gadwall, and even some Spoonbills. It's like nature's buffet, and you've got a front-row seat. Just remember, you'll need to bring your own shotgun and steel shot. Don't forget that California hunting license, HIP validation, and federal duck stamp - they're must-haves to keep everything above board.

Tracking Tips & Terrain

Let's talk strategy. We're working flooded rice fields here, which are like five-star hotels for ducks. The key is staying low and still in the blind. Our guides know these wetlands like the back of their hand, so they'll clue you in on flight patterns and when to take your shot. We use a mix of floating and full-body decoys to really sell the setup. And here's a pro tip: Pay attention to the wind. It'll tell you a lot about where the birds are coming from and how they'll approach. Don't worry if you're green - we'll walk you through everything from calling to shot placement. Just be ready for some early mornings and bring your A-game.

Target Game Breakdown

Mallards are the star of the show here, and for good reason. These big, beautiful ducks are a blast to hunt and even better on the table. Males sport that iconic green head that'll make any hunter's heart skip a beat. They're smart birds, though, so be ready for some tricky decoying. Peak season is usually mid-November through December when the northern birds push down.

Pintails are another favorite - they're sleek, fast, and known for their long "sprig" tail feathers. These birds are early migrators, so you'll see good numbers right from the opener. They've got a whistle that'll catch your ear before you even see them.

Don't sleep on the Widgeon, either. These medium-sized ducks have a distinct whistle (hence the nickname "baldpate"), and they're known for their acrobatic flying. They're often mixed in with other puddle ducks, so keep your eyes peeled.

Teal - both Green-winged and Cinnamon - are the speedsters of the duck world. They're small, but what they lack in size, they make up for in flavor and the challenge they present. These little rockets will test your shooting skills like no other.

Gadwall might not be the flashiest duck in the sky, but they're consistent and make for great eating. They're often overlooked, which means more opportunity for the savvy hunter who knows what to look for.

Last but not least, we've got Spoonbills (Northern Shovelers). With their distinctive, well, spoon-shaped bills, these ducks are unique. They're not everyone's favorite on the plate, but they're plentiful and can really fill out a limit when other species are playing hard to get.

Book Your Next Tag

Look, if you're itching to get out in the blind and stack up some ducks, Waterfowl Pursuit Guide Service is your ticket. We've got the spots, we've got the know-how, and we're ready to put you on birds. Just remember, spots fill up fast, especially for prime dates. And that deposit? It's non-refundable, so make sure you're locked and loaded before you book. Don't let another season slip by - get in touch and let's get your hunt on the calendar. Trust me, when you're pulling the trigger on a flock of incoming Mallards, you'll be glad you did. See you in the blind!