May 14, 2018
By Joe Genzel
From durable decoys to dependable waders, no matter how much you're looking to spend, there's something here that should fit your budget
onX Hunt Maps Elite
(Photo courtesy of onX Maps)
There's nothing more frustrating than being out hunting in new terrain, looking down at your phone for a map, and getting nothing because you are out of cell range. One solution comes from onX, an app made for exploring. Before you go, you can create maps with the features you want, like wilderness areas, access points and satellite imagery, and then save the map to your phone.
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The app uses the GPS in your phone and then pinpoints your position over your saved map. It tracks you, no cell reception required, and lets you check out the area via topo maps, satellite imagery or any of the other 12 types of map layers you have downloaded. The app is free, but you'll want to add features (prices are free for a trial of seven days to $119.99 per year). The Elite subscription will get you access to maps of all 50 states.
$99.99/year | Onxmaps.com
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Rig'Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag
We used this bag on Illinois public-land the last two years. You can stuff 2-dozen plus floaters in it, and the Runner has a waist belt, padded backrest, and padded shoulder straps. There is a pocket for a spinning-wing decoy on one side and a gun scabbard on the other.
MSRP: $120 | Rigemright.com
Dogtra ARC Handsfree
One company that is definitely not going the me-too route is Dogtra, and this is clearly evidenced by their new ARC Handsfree collar, which has a range of 3/4-mile. The Handsfree Remote Controller can be strapped to your wrist, to your shotgun, or anywhere you want, which allows for instant correction and the usage of both of your hands (plus you don't have it swinging from your neck the whole day). For training, and certain styles of hunting, this fully waterproof collar (that is built with two-hour rapid charge batteries) is a true game-changer.
MSRP: $250 | Dogtra.com
Avery Heritage Waders
Duck hunting is rich with history, and Avery's New Heritage Breathable Waders are a nod to that heritage and tradition. The weathered oil cloth appearance gives these waders a classic look. The SHEDS breathable technology coupled with 100% waterproof, fully taped seams make for a wader that is just as dry at the end of the hunt as when you put them on.
MSRP: $350 | Averyoutdoors.com
Yamaha Outboards Portable
Leave it to Yamaha to build an outboard strong enough to get you to the ducks fast, yet light enough to let you move it from your boat to the bed of your truck with ease. Available in 15, 20 and 25 hp, these four-stroke outboards are not only reliable, they are quiet, solid and powerful. The 25hp weighs just 126 pounds and is available in 15 and 20-inch shaft lengths. All three come with a freshwater flush device that allows you to flush the engine without running it.
MSRP: $3,875 | Yamahaoutboards.com
Dakota X-Blind
The New Dakota 10' X Blind offers more than just a killer hide. Frame setup takes less than a minute, and once assembled, the X Blind is a solid, lightweight unit that's easily moved throughout the course of your hunt! Cold weather hunters will love the included Velcro-on top that traps heat and eliminates the 'black hole' effect. Added doors provide easy access, and the included dog entrance allows for hassle-free retriever work. The best part? There's a viewing screen that spans the length of the blind to allow a full field of vision while keeping faces hidden.
MSRP: $680 | Dakotadecoy.com
Mojo Elite Series
Mojo outdoors is introducing a new line of improved spinning wing decoys based on a revolutionary new patent pending concept. The legendary spinning wing decoy has a new body that houses all elements internally and features magnetic wings that are a snap to install. The new Elite series spinning wing decoys feature Mallards, Pintails, Gadwall, Wood Duck, and Teal.
MSRP: $80-$170 | Mojooutdoors.com
Benelli Super Black Eagle 3
This spiffed-up semi auto is an extension of Benelli's 25-plus year's old inertia-style shotgun. The new version ˆ’ left-handed too ˆ’ has a big loading port so you can throw in a shell when things heat up. The big bolt release is hard to miss and loading the magazine is slick as owl poop. The trigger guard is larger with a big no-fumble safety. The SBE 3's Crio-treated barrels and chokes throw good patterns with all shells. I shot one this goose season, and the Comfort Tech 3 recoil-absorbing stock with its cushy CombTech comb made for soft shooting
MSRP: $1,999 | Benelliusa.com
Pro Drive Vanguard 37
If extreme hunting is your idea of fun, check out Pro Drive's Vanguard 37. It's built like a tank and will handle anything you dish out. It is packed with features like removable brush guards, a heavy-duty tilt and grab bar, hydraulic marine power tilt and trim, and a twist-grip throttle. The 37hp motor comes with CDI ignition, a stainless muffler, a lightweight flywheel and a high-capacity fuel pump. The prop is stainless, too, and a digital tach and hour meter are standard. Automatic full-power reverse is also available.
MSRP: $7,020 | Prodriveoutboards.com
Kent Bismuth Shotshells
If you're into shooting classic shotguns or into hitting birds with the best payload possible, Kent Bismuth is made for both. This shell produces modern performance with classic materials and is available in various loads in 12, 20, 16, and 28 gauges. With the addition to BB and larger shot sizes in the bismuth lineup, goose hunters can now explore more options when it comes to heavy hitting knock down power.
MSRP: $18-$32 | Kentgamebore.com
War Eagle Gladiator Boat
It may be billed as a timber boat, but War Eagle's Gladiator is perfect for almost any duck country. The shallow-draft hull runs in just a few inches of water. The .100-gauge aluminum hull is 17 feet, 4 inches and the floor is 50 inches wide. The extended duck-bill bow is ideal for plowing through brush and skimming off timber as you push deep into the woods. Mossy Oak Bottomland camo is standard. So are float boxes, rear pods, an adjustable hand rail and Line-X spray flooring. Includes boat, trailer and 37-hp Gator-Tail motor.
MSRP: $14,900 | Wareagleboats.com
