A short list of the much-needed essentials for your feather-chasing lifestyle. (Photo courtesy of Rig’Em Right)
Dive Bomb Industries Bumper Bomber 4800 Dive Bomb Industries Bumper Bomber 4800 The Dive Bomb Industries Bumper Bomber 4800 allows you to consistently throw bumpers 50+ yards and teach your retriever to handle longer marks. It is also a great way to save yourself the tired arms and beat back with your over-eager duck dog who doesn’t understand quitting. The overhead release will keep your retriever focused on the sky and not at your side if you are slinging bumpers underhand. The high-strength, lightweight aluminum shaft weighs just under one pound, making it easy to carry in and out of the field, and it also has a durable black powder coat finish for all-weather work.
$45; divebombindustries.com
Browning Wicked Wing 1/4 Zip Smoothbore Jacket Browning Wicked Wing 1/4 Zip Smoothbore Jacket This high-performance Browning jacket is so light, it doubles as a comfortable shirt, and the best part is that it is also nice enough to wear to Thanksgiving dinner with the family. Ideal for layering, the double-weave spandex face fabric with microcheck backer means comfort in all ducky conditions. It also comes with an upper chest, snap-secured handwarmer pocket, lower, zipper-secured kangaroo pocket, and integrated gear tabs. Available in popular Vintage Tan as well as Mossy Oak Bottomland.
$95; browning.com
Dokken's DeadFowl Trainer Mallard Dokken's DeadFowl Trainer Mallard Dokken's Deadfowl trainers are truly fundamental for training any duck dog. Tom Dokken developed this device to teach dogs how to hold and carry game birds properly— the hard head and bottom, married with a soft, durable body, educate them quickly. When a youngster starts shaking the dummy, the head gives him a whop on the noggin' and the grab and shake problem is remedied soon. The soft body can also be injected with scent to boost realism.
$30; dokkens.com
Chêne Gear Waders Chêne Gear Waders Chêne Gear has recently been taking the waterfowling industry by storm with their high-end, ultra-functional waders. They feature 4-layer nylon, which is waterproof, breathable, and more abrasion resistant than polyester. The front YKK AQUASEAL zipper provides complete waterproof protection coupled with easy in and out ability. Unique, adjustable shoulder straps deliver a comfortable, precise fit, and a custom boot design with EVA midsole provides all-day durability, while fleece-lined hand-warming pockets keeps your digits warm in the coldest conditions. They also come with a limited lifetime warranty and will serve you well no matter your flyway.
$1,100; chenegear.com
Rig'Em Right Field Bully Dog Blind Rig'Em Right Field Bully Dog Blind Rig’Em Right’s Field Bully Dog Blind is a tough, durable dog blind built for those of you chasing big geese this season. The patent pending Bullycoil frame system sets up in seconds, compresses flat for storage, and contains no pins, hinges or poles, making it virtually indestructible. Set up and brushing is a breeze with additional slots and the unique triangular profile hides well from above—creating a much better hide for your amped retriever. There is also a padded floor for long days grinding, and peep holes in both the front and back for adaptability with your blind set up. Available in GORE OPTIFADE Marsh.
$160; rigemright.com