When it comes to building your collection of duck calls, knowing the best options can make all the difference in your hunting success. Each call serves a unique purpose and caters to various skill levels and preferences. From easy-to-use models to advanced designs, there’s something for everyone. But how do you choose the right one for your needs? Let’s explore the top 10 duck calls that every waterfowl hunter should consider.
Wood Duck Call – Game Call Hunting Whistle
If you’re a waterfowl enthusiast looking to elevate your hunting game, the Wood Duck Call is an excellent choice. Made from natural wood, this call produces a raspy and smooth sound that mimics wild ducks perfectly. You’ll find it’s incredibly easy to blow, allowing you to sound like a pro with minimal effort. Whether you’re out in the marsh or setting up your decoys, this whistle is essential for attracting ducks. Plus, it’s a fantastic gift for fellow waterfowl lovers, ensuring they can enhance their hunting experience too. Don’t miss out on this versatile tool in your hunting arsenal!
Best For: Waterfowl enthusiasts looking for an easy-to-use and realistic duck call for hunting.
Pros:
- Easy to blow, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced hunters.
- Produces a realistic sound that effectively attracts wild ducks.
- Made from natural wood, enhancing the quality of sound and durability.
Cons:
- May require some practice to master specific calls for different duck species.
- Being made of wood, it may be more prone to damage compared to plastic calls.
- Limited to waterfowl hunting, not versatile for other types of game calling.
Duck Commander Classic Duck Calls for Waterfowl Hunting
The Duck Commander Classic Duck Calls are perfect for both novice and seasoned waterfowl hunters seeking an effective and reliable tool for their hunts. Crafted from durable smoke grey polycarbonate, this call withstands harsh conditions while delivering realistic, raspy mallard hen sounds. Its single-reed, friction-fit design makes it versatile and easy to use, ideal for attracting ducks at critical moments. Users rave about its sound quality and volume, earning it a stellar 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 4,265 reviews. Lightweight and portable, the Shadow Duck Call is a must-have for your hunting collection.
Best For: Duck Commander Classic Duck Calls are best for both novice and experienced waterfowl hunters seeking effective and reliable calling tools.
Pros:
- Durable construction from smoke grey polycarbonate ensures longevity in harsh outdoor conditions.
- Produces realistic, raspy mallard hen sounds, making it effective for attracting ducks.
- High customer satisfaction with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 4,265 reviews.
Cons:
- Bright orange color may raise concerns regarding visibility versus camouflage.
- Some users may find the single-reed design less versatile compared to double-reed calls.
- Limited performance in extremely windy or noisy environments may affect sound projection.
Duck Commander Specialty Duck Calls for Waterfowl Hunting
For waterfowl hunters seeking an edge during late season, Duck Commander Specialty Duck Calls stand out with their ability to produce realistic Wood Duck sounds. The single reed design enables you to make sharp, precise calls, perfectly mimicking both the flying and sitting vocalizations of these elusive ducks. Crafted from high-impact plastic, these calls are built to endure rugged outdoor conditions, ensuring long-lasting performance. Plus, they’re user-friendly, making them suitable for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. With included lanyard accessories, they easily fit into your hunting gear, enhancing your chances of success in the field.
Best For: Waterfowl hunters of all experience levels looking to enhance their late-season hunting success with realistic Wood Duck calls.
Pros:
- Produces realistic Wood Duck sounds, enhancing hunting effectiveness.
- Durable high-impact plastic construction ensures longevity in rugged conditions.
- User-friendly design suitable for both beginners and seasoned hunters.
Cons:
- Single reed design may require practice for optimal sound production.
- Limited to Wood Duck vocalizations, which may not suit all hunting scenarios.
- Accessories may not be universally compatible with all hunting gear.
BGC Double Nasty Duck Call & Wood Duck Call Combo – Timber Pack Combo Kit
Looking to up your waterfowl hunting game? The BGC Double Nasty Duck Call & Wood Duck Call Combo – Timber Pack Combo Kit is a must-have. Featuring a Double Nasty mallard call with a Spit-Tech toneboard that prevents sticking, you’ll get consistent sounds every time. The user-friendly Wood Duck call is just as effective, making this combo perfect for all skill levels. Crafted from durable polycarbonate in a sleek green/smoke color, both calls deliver a full spectrum of sounds. With an average rating of 4.6 stars, hunters rave about their quality, ease of use, and affordability.
Best For: The BGC Double Nasty Duck Call & Wood Duck Call Combo is best for both beginners and experienced hunters looking to enhance their waterfowl hunting experience.
Pros:
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting use even in harsh weather conditions.
- User-friendly design makes it easy to produce a variety of sounds, catering to different hunting scenarios.
- High customer ratings highlight its effectiveness and affordability, making it a popular choice among hunters.
Cons:
- Limited color options may not appeal to all users.
- May require practice to master the full range of sounds, especially for beginners.
- Some users may find the toneboard sticking issue persists in certain conditions despite the Spit-Tech feature.
Comeback Quack Duck Call, Easy Blowing Mallard Duck Call
Engineered with a double reed design, the Comeback Quack Duck Call is perfect for both novice and experienced hunters seeking an effortless and effective way to lure waterfowl. Crafted from durable acrylic, this call features a sleek white and black finish. Its easy-blowing capability guarantees you can produce the raspy tones essential for attracting various duck species. Each call is hand-tuned for exceptional sound quality, allowing you to depend on it during your hunting trips. With a reliable performance and a manufacturer’s warranty, the Comeback Quack is a must-have addition to your collection of duck calls.
Best For: The Comeback Quack Duck Call is best for both novice and experienced duck hunters looking for an easy-to-use and effective calling tool.
Pros:
- Double reed design offers a rich rasp essential for attracting ducks.
- Hand-tuned for optimal performance, ensuring reliable sound quality in the field.
- Lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry during hunting trips.
Cons:
- Limited color options may not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
- May require practice for complete mastery, especially for beginners.
- Not suitable for larger duck species that may require more complex calls.
Primos Hunting 805 Duck Call, Easy Mallard Single Reed
The Primos Hunting 805 Duck Call, featuring an easy-to-use single reed design, is perfect for beginners and young hunters alike. This call requires little air pressure, making it simple to blow, even when wet. With its thin .010-inch Mylar reed, you’ll produce realistic duck sounds effortlessly. It’s compact, lightweight, and rated 4.4 stars by over 650 users, showcasing its popularity. While some feedback mentions echoing sounds on calm days, many appreciate its durability and affordability. Whether you’re hunting or just having fun, the Primos 805 is a great addition to your collection and a reliable choice for any outing.
Best For: The Primos Hunting 805 Duck Call is best for beginners and young hunters looking for an easy-to-use call that produces realistic duck sounds.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design allows for easy carrying and handling.
- Requires little air pressure, making it user-friendly for children and beginners.
- Durable construction despite being made from synthetic materials, ensuring longevity.
Cons:
- Some users report echoing sounds, particularly on calm days, which may affect realism.
- Less realistic quacks noted by a few users, impacting effectiveness in certain conditions.
- Sound may not carry as well in windy environments compared to higher-end models.
BGC The Finisher Duck Call Combo Pack
For waterfowl hunters seeking an all-in-one solution, the BGC The Finisher Duck Call Combo Pack is an ideal choice. This field-ready pack includes the Mallard Magic double reed hen mallard call and a versatile 6-in-1 whistle. The Mallard Magic call features Quick-Tune double reed guts, making it easy to use and maintain. With the whistle, you can mimic mallard drakes, pintails, wood ducks, wigeons, and other whistling ducks, enhancing your hunting effectiveness. Ready to hunt right out of the box, this combo pack offers great value, ensuring you have the essential tools for successful outings.
Best For: Waterfowl hunters looking for a comprehensive and easy-to-use calling solution for various duck species.
Pros:
- Versatile: Includes both a hen mallard call and a whistle for multiple duck species.
- User-Friendly: Quick-Tune double reed guts make the Mallard Magic call easy to use and maintain.
- Ready to Hunt: Comes fully equipped and ready for immediate use in the field.
Cons:
- Limited to Waterfowl: Not suitable for hunters targeting other types of game.
- Potential Learning Curve: Beginners may take time to master different calls effectively.
- Durability Concerns: Some users may find the materials less robust over extended use in harsh conditions.
Duck Commander Phil Robertson Pro Series Duck Call
With its outstanding volume and distinctive raspy tone, the Duck Commander Phil Robertson Pro Series Duck Call is perfect for both beginners and seasoned hunters. Crafted from durable oak with a poly-carbonate insert, it offers a powerful sound that’s effective in both timber and field settings. Measuring 6.89 x 4.69 x 1.65 inches and weighing just 0.07 kg, it’s easy to handle. Users rave about its ease of use and reliability, making it a favorite in many collections. Whether you’re just starting or a veteran, this call embodies the legacy of Phil Robertson and enhances your hunting experience.
Best For: The Duck Commander Phil Robertson Pro Series Duck Call is best for both beginners and experienced hunters looking for a reliable and high-quality duck call.
Pros:
- Outstanding volume and distinctive raspy sound suitable for various hunting environments.
- Durable construction with high-impact oak and poly-carbonate for long-lasting performance.
- User-friendly design, making it easy to blow for hunters of all skill levels.
Cons:
- Some users may find the size slightly bulky for carrying in pockets.
- Initial learning curve for complete beginners may take some practice to master the sound.
- Limited color options, as it is only available in oak.
Zink Power Hen 2 Polycarbonate Duck Game Call
Crafted for versatility, the Zink Power Hen 2 Polycarbonate Duck Game Call stands out as an essential tool for waterfowl hunters aiming to replicate realistic mallard sounds. Its double reed design offers smooth tones with enhanced volume, making it perfect for both novices and experienced callers. Machined with precision, the call features a no-stick tone channel to prevent reed lock, ensuring reliable performance. Weighing only 0.09 kg and measuring 8.07 x 2.91 x 1.57 inches, it’s easy to handle in the field. With a solid customer rating of 4.4 stars, this call is a must-have for your hunting gear.
Best For: Waterfowl hunters seeking a user-friendly duck call that replicates realistic mallard sounds.
Pros:
- Versatile double reed design allows for a wide range of tones.
- Lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in the field.
- High customer rating of 4.4 stars indicates strong user satisfaction.
Cons:
- May require practice for novices to master realistic sounds.
- Limited color options may not suit all aesthetic preferences.
- Higher price point compared to some basic duck calls on the market.
BGC Mallard Magic Double Reed Duck Call
The BGC Mallard Magic Double Reed Duck Call stands out as an essential tool for avid waterfowl hunters seeking to enhance their calling techniques. Crafted from virtually indestructible polycarbonate, this call features a camo green/smoke design with a gunmetal band, ensuring durability and style. The Cajun style push-in gut double reed design delivers a rich, dual-tone exhaust that attracts ducks effectively. Measuring 4.75 x 1.2 inches and weighing just 0.06 kilograms, it’s compact and lightweight. With a solid 4.4-star rating from users, it’s clear this call deserves a spot in your hunting gear. Enjoy a limited lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Best For: Avid waterfowl hunters looking for a reliable and effective duck call to enhance their calling techniques.
Pros:
- Durable Material: Made from virtually indestructible polycarbonate, ensuring long-lasting use in various conditions.
- Effective Design: Cajun style push-in gut double reed design produces a rich, dual-tone exhaust that attracts ducks effectively.
- Compact Size: Lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry in the field.
Cons:
- Limited Color Options: Available only in camo green/smoke, which may not suit all preferences.
- User Experience Variation: Effectiveness may vary based on individual calling skills and techniques.
- Price Sensitivity: While competitively priced, some users may find similar products at lower price points.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Duck Calls
When choosing a duck call, you need to contemplate sound realism and quality to attract those birds effectively. Ease of use, durability, and versatility for different hunting situations also play a big role in your decision. Don’t forget to evaluate the design and features that suit your style and needs.
Sound Realism and Quality
Sound realism is essential for duck calls, as it directly impacts your ability to lure in ducks. Effective calls mimic the natural sounds of mallards and other species, making them vital for your success. High-quality calls often use materials like wood or polycarbonate, enhancing sound quality and producing authentic tones. Consider calls with double reed systems, as they provide a wider range of sounds, from low-end feed calls to high-pitched quacks, allowing you to adapt your calling techniques. User feedback highlights the importance of sound clarity and volume, as calls that carry well in various conditions can greatly improve your chances. Ultimately, choose a call that allows you to produce realistic sounds effortlessly, catering to both your skill level and hunting environment.
Ease of Use
Choosing a duck call isn’t just about sound realism; ease of use plays an essential role in your success as well. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hunter, finding a call that’s simple to blow can help you produce realistic sounds effortlessly. Look for calls with double reeds, as they allow you to create a wider range of sounds without needing much air pressure. Hand-tuned calls crafted from specific materials can enhance sound quality while remaining user-friendly. Additionally, features like friction-fit systems or anti-stick mechanisms are great for performance, especially in wet conditions. Ultimately, the ability to produce loud and clear calls easily can greatly impact your hunting success, making ease of use a top priority.
Durability and Material
Although many factors influence your duck call selection, durability and material are essential for ensuring your call withstands the rigors of the hunt. Calls made from polycarbonate and high-impact plastic are particularly resilient against harsh conditions, making them ideal for outdoor use. While natural wood calls can produce excellent sound quality, they often require more maintenance, especially in wet environments. Synthetic materials offer consistent performance and moisture resistance, perfect for varied hunting conditions. A well-constructed call should endure repeated use without sacrificing functionality or sound quality. Consider that polycarbonate calls deliver loud, clear tones, while wood calls provide a traditional, raspy sound, influencing your choice based on durability needs and desired sound characteristics.
Versatility for Hunting
When it comes to hunting ducks, having a versatile call can make all the difference in attracting various species under different conditions. A good duck call can replicate a wide range of sounds, making it suitable for diverse hunting scenarios. Look for calls that mimic both flying and sitting ducks, enhancing your chances of success by reflecting their natural behaviors. Single or double reed designs allow you to produce everything from soft feeding sounds to loud, commanding quacks. Choose user-friendly options that cater to both novices and experienced hunters, so you can achieve effective calling with ease. Finally, prioritize durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring your call performs reliably across different environments without losing sound quality.
Design and Features
The design and features of duck calls play a significant role in your hunting success. You’ll find options with single or double reed systems, with double reeds typically producing a raspy sound that attracts ducks effectively. The materials, like polycarbonate or natural wood, influence durability and sound quality, with synthetic options often lasting longer in harsh conditions. Look for user-friendly designs, such as easy-blowing options and friction-fit systems, which make consistent sound production effortless. The shape and size of the call also matter, affecting sound projection and clarity. Some calls even include innovative features like no-stick tone channels, preventing reed lock and ensuring reliability in various hunting scenarios. Choose wisely to enhance your hunting experience!
Price and Value
Choosing the right duck call involves more than just picking the one that sounds best; you also need to evaluate the price and value it offers. Duck calls can range from under $20 to over $100, reflecting differences in materials and brand reputation. While a higher price may seem intimidating, investing in a quality call often results in better durability and sound quality, ensuring long-term satisfaction. Look for products with customer ratings of 4.4 stars or higher, as they typically indicate a good balance between quality and cost. Additionally, consider calls with warranties for extra peace of mind. Bundled options with multiple calls or accessories can also offer great value, allowing you to expand your collection cost-effectively.