We began layout boat duck hunting in Texas in 2009. Since that time we have learned a great deal about perfecting this approach on the bays of the Texas Gulf Coast.
In 2011 we had the pleasure of gunning Worth Mathewson the longtime editor of Wildfowl Magazine on layout hunts here in Texas.
For the discriminating waterfowl hunter, there is no other method as gratifying. Hunting layout boats reinvigorated my love for the sport and added new dimensions I thought impossible to experience.
Enjoy this Northern style of duck hunting right here in the mild climates of the middle Texas Gulf Coast. This is a must experience hunt for the experienced waterfowler. Expect close in decoying and classic tight shots over the blocks! These hunts are fully tendered "yankee style". Check out the video of Texas Layout Boat Hunting.
Yankees gun these boats primarily on lakes and big water for Divers. Our curiosity was concerning their application on Puddle ducks as well as Divers here in Texas. We answered the question concerning Puddler lethality on our first attempt at a layout boat hunt. We gunned the boat "dressed" using some camo net and freshly cut Oleander branches. Capt. James Cunningham gunned from the boat first and was approaching his limit before we got the airboat parked. On this day, we took three man limits of Pintail, Gadwall, and Teal. The whole experience left me awestruck and with a fresh new look at the sport of wingshooting. Laying on top of the water at eye-level with my decoys, ARE YOU KIDDING!
Our duck season starts with the First Split on November 2nd and runs through November 24th. The Second Split starts December 14th and runs through January 26th. Sandhill Crane typically opens 3rd Saturday in December and runs through mid to late January. Call for details.
Cast & Blast trips for Trout & Redfish, Goose/Duck combinations, Night Vision Hog, Sandhill Crane and much more. Come see us!
The easiest approach to out-of-state licensing and licensing in general is to make these arrangements ahead of time. Please call 1-800-TX-LIC-4U or online at TPWD ONLINE.
The following is a thorough list of what each hunter should bring to ensure enjoyment of the outdoors. Texas weather is tough to predict. Please prepare for temperatures warmer and colder than you think possible. Bold items are essential.
| Shotguns - At least two (20/12 gauge recommended)* | ||
| Steel Shot Shells | ||
| Ducks Loads (2 3/4" - 3" #2's, 4's, or 6's) ** | ||
| Goose Loads (BB, BBB, T) | ||
| Chest Waders/Hip Boots | ||
| Mosquito spray | ||
| Camo Face net/mask | ||
| Rain Gear/Parka/Jacket | ||
| Gun cleaning kit | ||
| Camo clothing (Max 4HD or Similar) | ||
| Camera | ||
| Ice chests | ||
| Texas hunting license/voucher (Call 1-800-TX-LIC-4U) | ||
| Federal Waterfowl Stamp |
Bird processing fees are not included in the price of hunt packages as it is a variable that we cannot predict. These fees run approximately $2.50 for ducks and $3.00 for geese. Should you elect to not take birds home, cleaning and processing fees must still be paid. We will assist you with making donations of the meat to area charities.
If you would like to clean your own birds at no charge, feel free to do so. We will assist you with storage until your departure.
We have shotguns for rent at the lodge featuring the latest and greatest including Remington Versa Max and V-12's along with a host of over/unders. Shotgun shells are available here at the lodge.
For guests wanting to ship gear here to the lodge ahead of their trip, our shipping/receiving address is 109 W. Austin, Seadrift, Texas 77983. Please schedule a pick up for your gear as well for return to you.
Many of our duck hunting locations are accessed by airboat depending upon water levels and difficulty of access in the back marsh. We recommend that your gear be securely stowed in waterproof bags. There can be no loose items in this boat.
