Premier Duck Hunting in Central Texas

Published Date: July 18, 2025
Fishing

Texas
$150 - $600 price range
Updated Date: November 21, 2025

Summary

Get ready for some fast-paced duck hunting action in the heart of Central Texas with Capt. Scott. This trip is all about putting your skills to the test as you target a variety of waterfowl, including Blue-winged Teal, Gadwall, Green-winged Teal, Pintail, Wigeon, and Redhead. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the sport, you'll find plenty of opportunities to improve your accuracy and enjoy the great outdoors. The abundant waterfowl population in this area makes for an exciting hunt, with birds constantly on the move. Don't forget to bring your own gun, necessary licenses, and steel shot in sizes 2 and 4. It's just you and Capt. Scott on this personalized hunt, so you'll have his full attention and expertise to help you make the most of your day in the field. Book your spot now for a duck hunting experience that'll have you itching to come back for more. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

Ducks in the Crosshairs

Hunters ready for a coastal duck hunt in Texas.

Action shot of redhead ducks over Texas marshes.

Two people enjoying a great fishing and hunting trip in Port O'Connor

Coastal hunting with expert guides in Texas.

Ducks taking flight at sunrise on Texas wetlands.

Duck Season: Central Texas Waterfowl Bonanza

Get ready for some serious wing-shooting action in the heart of the Lone Star State. Capt. Scott's Central Texas duck hunt is where it's at if you're looking to bag your limit and have a blast doing it. We're talking prime waterfowl country here, folks - the kind of place that'll have you checking your calendar for the next open weekend before you've even finished cleaning your gun.

Trip Overview

Picture this: You're hunkered down in a blind as the sun peeks over the horizon, decoys bobbing in front of you, and the distant sound of wings cutting through the crisp morning air. That's what you're in for on this top-notch duck hunting trip. Capt. Scott knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll put you right where the action is. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time swinging on a flock of incoming teal, this trip's got something for everyone. Just remember to bring your own shotgun, valid hunting license, and steel shot (sizes 2 and 4 work best out here). Oh, and fair warning - once you've hunted ducks in Central Texas, everywhere else might just seem a little dull in comparison.

Inside the Hunt

Let's talk tactics. We're not just standing around hoping ducks fall from the sky - this is active hunting at its finest. You'll be set up in prime locations, often in shallow water or along the edges of flooded fields. Capt. Scott's got a knack for reading the birds and calling them in close. You'll learn to work with the wind, stay hidden, and time your shots just right. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the rush of seeing a flock of teal or pintails cup their wings and commit to your spread. It's all about being quick on the draw and steady on the aim. Don't worry if you're new to this - Capt. Scott's got plenty of tips to help you improve your shooting and increase your odds of a full strap.

Target Game Breakdown

Blue-winged Teal: These little speedsters are often the first to show up in the fall. They're fast, agile, and can really test your shooting skills. Blue-wings typically arrive in September and October, so if you're looking for early season action, these are your birds. They're not the biggest ducks out there, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers and taste.

Gadwall Duck: Often overlooked but never underappreciated by those in the know. Gadwalls are crafty birds that love to sneak into your spread when you're not looking. They're mid-sized ducks with subtle coloration, but don't let that fool you - they're excellent table fare. Look for them throughout the season, especially in areas with submerged vegetation.

Redhead: These diving ducks are a real treat when they show up. With their distinctive red heads and gray bodies, they're hard to miss. Redheads often travel in large flocks and prefer deeper water. When conditions are right, and a big group decides to work your decoys, it's a sight you won't soon forget. They're typically more abundant later in the season.

Northern Pintail: If there's royalty in the duck world, pintails wear the crown. These long-necked beauties are prized for their elegance and their challenge. They're notoriously wary, so when you manage to fool a pintail, you've really accomplished something. Watch for their distinctive silhouette and listen for their whistling wings as they approach.

Green-winged Teal: The smallest duck you'll target, but don't let their size fool you. Green-wings are lightning-fast and can turn on a dime. They often come in low and fast, providing some of the most exciting shooting of the season. These little guys are most common in the latter part of the season and are absolute dynamos on the dinner plate.

What to Expect on the Water

Central Texas offers a mix of habitats that waterfowl love - we're talking shallow lakes, flooded timber, and agricultural fields that draw ducks like a magnet. The terrain can be a bit challenging, so be ready for some wading and maybe a bit of mud. But trust me, it's all part of the experience. Capt. Scott's got the local knowledge to put you where the birds want to be, whether that's setting up in flooded corn or tucked away in a cattail marsh. Weather can change on a dime out here, so dress in layers and be prepared for anything from crisp, clear mornings to blustery, overcast days. That's half the fun of duck hunting - you never know what Mother Nature's going to throw at you, but you can bet the ducks will be flying.

Why Hunters Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the number of birds in your bag - though that certainly doesn't hurt. Hunters return to Central Texas year after year because of the quality of the experience. The diversity of species you can encounter in a single morning is impressive. One minute you're swinging on a pair of pintails, the next you're calling to a flock of gadwalls. And let's not forget the camaraderie. There's something special about sharing a blind with friends or family, swapping stories, and celebrating each other's shots. Plus, the locals know how to make you feel welcome. Don't be surprised if you find yourself invited to a post-hunt BBQ or swapping hunting tales at the local diner.

Book Your Next Tag

Alright, let's cut to the chase - if you're itching to get out there and experience some of the best duck hunting Central Texas has to offer, now's the time to lock in your dates. Capt. Scott's calendar fills up fast, especially during peak migration times. Remember, this trip is for one lucky hunter, so it's perfect if you're looking for some one-on-one guidance or just want to have the whole experience to yourself. Don't forget, deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're committed before you pull the trigger on booking. Trust me, once you're out there watching the sun rise over the decoys, you'll be glad you did. So what are you waiting for? Grab your waders, dust off your calls, and get ready for a duck hunting adventure that'll have you counting down the days until next season. Book now and let's get after 'em!

Learn more about the animals

Blue-winged Teal

These quick, agile ducks are a favorite among Central Texas hunters. Weighing in at just over a pound, Blue-winged Teal are small but pack a punch with their erratic flight patterns. You'll find them in shallow wetlands, flooded fields, and along the edges of lakes. They're early migrators, so our best hunting is usually in September and October before they head further south. Hunters love 'em for their sporty challenge and tasty meat. When you're out there, keep an eye on the water's surface for their distinctive blue wing patches – it's a dead giveaway. Pro tip: these birds often fly low and fast, so be ready to snap off quick shots. Practice your swing-through technique before the hunt, and you'll have a better chance of connecting with these speedy targets.

Gadwell Duck

Gadwalls might not be the flashiest ducks in the marsh, but they're a solid target for any Central Texas hunt. These medium-sized ducks, often called "gray ducks," prefer shallow ponds and flooded fields. They're late migrants, so our best action comes in November and December. Gadwalls are known for their steady flight and tendency to circle back, giving hunters multiple shot opportunities. Their meat is top-notch, with a mild flavor that's hard to beat. Look for them in areas with plenty of aquatic vegetation – they're big-time plant eaters. When you're setting up, remember that Gadwalls are wary birds. They'll often hang back and check things out before committing. A tip from the blind: use a jerk cord on your decoys to create some realistic movement. It'll help convince those cautious Gadwalls that it's safe to come in for a closer look.

Green-winged Teal

Green-winged Teal are the smallest ducks you'll target in Central Texas, but don't let their size fool you – they're a blast to hunt. These little speedsters, weighing in at just under a pound, are known for their acrobatic flight and lightning-fast reflexes. You'll find them in shallow marshes, flooded timber, and along the edges of ponds. Green-wings are hardy birds, sticking around even when other ducks have headed south, so you can often bag them throughout the season. Hunters love the challenge they present – their erratic flight patterns and small size make them tricky targets. Plus, they're fantastic eating. When you're setting up, look for areas with plenty of cover and food sources like seeds and aquatic insects. Here's a tip that's served me well: Green-wings often fly in tight groups, so when you spot one, be ready for more. A well-placed shot can sometimes drop multiple birds.

Northern Pintail

Northern Pintails are the runway models of the duck world – long, sleek, and elegant. These birds are a favorite among Central Texas hunters for their graceful flight and challenging hunt. Pintails prefer shallow wetlands and flooded agricultural fields, often hanging out with other puddle ducks. You'll see them most during fall and spring migrations, with peak numbers usually in November. Hunters love Pintails for their speed and agility in the air, not to mention their excellent table fare. When you're out there, keep an ear open for their distinctive whistle – it's a dead giveaway. One trick I've learned over the years: Pintails are suckers for a good spinner decoy. Set one up on the edge of your spread, and you'll often see these birds lock up and come right in. Just remember to shut it off once they're committed, or you might spook 'em at the last second.

Redhead

Redheads are a prize catch in Central Texas, known for their striking looks and challenging hunt. These chunky diving ducks typically weigh in around 2-3 pounds and prefer deeper, open water. You'll spot them on larger lakes and reservoirs, often in big rafts. Peak season for Redheads here is usually mid-winter, from December through January. Hunters prize them for their fast flight and the satisfying 'thump' when they hit the water. Their meat is good eating too, with a mild flavor that's not too 'fishy.' When you're after Redheads, bring your long-range game – they often stay out in open water and can be tough to decoy in close. Here's a local trick: if you're struggling to get their attention, try throwing out a spread of mostly Redhead decoys with just a few other species mixed in. It can sometimes be the key to bringing those wary birds within range.

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