"Duckboat" Boating & Hunting Safety

When planning a hunt, check to be sure the boat is in good working condition and includes enough gas for the trip, all necessary safety gear, and boat lights and flashlights in good working order. Hunters must follow all boating rules, and everyone on board should wear a properly fitted U.S.C.G. approved life jacket, vest, or flotation coat anytime while on the water. A GPS unit is helpful in finding your way but don’t depend solely on it as a means of navigation, as reception varies and units can fail.

•  Leave a float plan with a responsible person that includes the names of all persons in your party, type and registration number of your boat, time and location of your hunt, and when you expect to return
  

• Have your boat, motor, and trailer serviced before the season starts. Make sure everything mechanical is in good running order and that batteries are at full charge.
  

• Stow visual distress signals on board in a waterproof container.
  

• Carry a cell phone or radio for emergency communication, but keep in mind you may not have service in a remote area. Carry your cell phone along in a waterproof case or re-closable bag.
  

• Check the weather before leaving.
  

• Keep an eye on the sky. No boater should ever start out in a storm.
  

• Be prepared by acquainting yourself with the area.
  

• Choose a route close to shore and avoid crossing large expanses of open water, especially in bad weather.
  

• At the first sign of a storm, head for shore or safe harbor.
  

• Anchor from the bow, never from the stern.
  

• Never attempt to run an overloaded boat. If hunting on a large river or lake, use a boat that's big enough to handle rough water. Check the capacity plate and keep the amount of gear, dogs, and people within your weight limits. Also, be sure the load is properly balanced and try to keep movements and weight shifts (dogs and people) to a minimum. Overloading, sudden shifts in weight, or excessive weather conditions are the most common causes of boats capsizing or swamping.
  

• If hunting on a large river or lake, use a boat that's big enough to handle rough water
  

• If your boat does capsize or swamp, STAY WITH THE BOAT and use distress signals Even when filled with water it will provide some floatation and is easier to see by potential rescuers.
  

• Make sure the boat has enough fuel. No boater wants to be stranded on the water.
  

• Prevent capsizing.  Reduce speed in rough water, load carefully, secure loads from shifting and adjust for changing conditions. Wait for poor weather to improve.
  

• Firearms should be unloaded and properly secured in a case while being trans­ported in a boat.
  

• Treat every gun as if it's loaded, even when you're sure it's not.
  

• Floating gun cases earn their keep if one happens to go overboard.
  

• Before each hunt, open your gun's action and check the muzzle for obstructions.
  

• Be extra careful when shooting from a boat. Small boats often have little room to swing a shotgun, so be aware of where dogs and other partners are, and only shoot when all is clear.
  

• Never stand in an unsecured boat to shoot.
  

• Avoid alcohol. Booze and boating don't mix.
  

• Hunt with a companion or group, staying within visual or voice contact. Boating safety increases with numbers.
  

• Prevent falls overboard. Remain seated while underway, wear non-skid foot wear and avoid reaching overboard for objects.
  

• Wear a life jacket to and from the blind when wading in waterways. Life vests are available for around $40 with mesh in the upper body that allow hunters to shoulder a gun but still offer protection from cold water.
  

• If wearing chest waders, use a belt to keep them from filling up with water.
  

• Unless the clothing is creating a hazard, do not remove extra clothing. It can help prevent hypothermia.
  

• Control wind and wetness by using waterproof jackets, waders, and boots.
  

• Wear a belt around your waders to prevent water from entering.
  

• Wear wool clothing or clothing that stays warm when wet, like some fleece products. Bring extras in a waterproof bag.
  

• Wear a hat. Most warmth escapes through your head.
  

• Bring a variety of high energy/sugar content food bars for quick energy and calories.
  

• Your extremities are very important. It’s no fun to hunt with cold feet, hands, or head. Bring waterproof gloves and footwear, and chemical hand and foot warmers that you can put inside your gloves or boots.
  

• If you fall in—go home! Or, take a break and change into warm, dry clothes.
  

 Waterfowl hunting can be safer and more enjoyable if you plan ahead and make safe practices part of your water-based hunt. Safety is always the first and most important measure of a successful hunt.