Top-Rated Lake Duck Hunting | Southern Sun Guides

Lake Duck Hunting: Mixed Bag Magic

Get ready for some serious waterfowl action on Roanoke Rapids Lake and Lake Gaston. This ain't your average duck hunt - we're talking layout boats, shore setups, and a mix of divers and puddlers that'll keep you on your toes. If you're looking to fill your strap with a variety of ducks, you've come to the right spot. Southern Sun Guides has the local know-how to put you right where the birds want to be.

Hunt Breakdown

We'll kick things off early - real early. But don't worry, we'll fuel you up with a hearty breakfast before we hit the water. This trip is perfect for the solo hunter who wants to maximize their time in the field. You'll have the full attention of your guide as we bounce between layout boat setups and shore blinds, giving you the best chance at a mixed bag. Roanoke Rapids and Lake Gaston are hotspots for both diving ducks and puddle ducks, so be ready to switch up your shooting style throughout the day.

Decoy Spreads & Setups

We don't mess around when it comes to our decoy spreads. For divers, we'll set out long lines of bluebill and redhead decoys, maybe throwing in some canvasbacks if we're feeling lucky. When we're targeting puddlers, we'll switch to a more traditional puddle duck spread with plenty of movement. Expect to see some spinning-wing decoys and maybe even a jerk cord setup to really bring those birds in close. Our layout boats are top-notch, letting us hide in plain sight right where the ducks want to be. And when we're hunting from shore, we've got some killer blind spots that'll keep us hidden and comfortable.

Duck Calling 101

If you're new to duck calling, don't sweat it. Your guide will handle most of the calling, but we're always happy to give you some pointers. There's nothing like the rush of seeing a flock respond to your call and cup their wings as they commit to the spread. For divers, we might keep it simple with some whistles and purrs. But when those mallards and wood ducks are flying, get ready for some loud, fast calling to turn those birds and bring 'em in close.

Target Species Breakdown

Diving Ducks: These speed demons of the duck world are a blast to hunt. Bluebills (scaup) are usually the most common, zipping across the water in tight groups. They're fast flyers and tough birds, so lead 'em well and hit 'em hard. Redheads are another favorite, with their distinctive rusty heads and grey backs. They tend to decoy well, especially on bigger water.

Puddle Ducks: When it comes to puddlers, you never know what you might see. Mallards are the bread and butter - big, beautiful, and great eating. Wood ducks are another local favorite, with their stunning plumage and acrobatic flight. Keep an eye out for gadwall, widgeon, and teal too. Each species has its own quirks and challenges, keeping the hunt exciting all day long.

Weather & Gear Tips

Carolina winters can be unpredictable, so come prepared. Layering is key - start with a good base layer, add some insulation, and top it off with quality waterproof gear. Don't forget your waders - even if we're in the layout boat, you'll want them for setting decoys and retrieving birds. A good pair of waterproof gloves is worth their weight in gold on a cold morning. As for shotguns, a 12-gauge is standard, but a 20-gauge can work well too if that's your preference. We'll be shooting steel shot, so make sure you've got the right loads.

Conservation Corner

At Southern Sun Guides, we take conservation seriously. We follow all federal and state regulations to the letter and encourage ethical shooting practices. That means positive target identification, respecting bag limits, and only taking shots you're confident in. We're not just here for today's hunt - we want to make sure there are ducks for generations to come. So don't be surprised if your guide passes on some iffy shots or calls it a day early if we've had a good morning. It's all part of being a responsible waterfowler.

Post-Hunt Bragging Rights

After we wrap up the hunt, we'll take care of cleaning your birds (if you want) and snap some photos for your social media brag board. There's nothing like showing off a mixed strap of Carolina ducks to make your buddies back home jealous. And trust us, after a successful day on Roanoke Rapids or Lake Gaston, you'll have plenty to brag about.

Book Your Blind Time

If you're itching to experience some of the best mixed bag duck hunting North Carolina has to offer, don't wait to book your trip with Southern Sun Guides. Our spots fill up fast, especially during peak migration. Whether you're a seasoned waterfowler or looking to pop your duck hunting cherry, we've got the skills and local knowledge to make your hunt a success. So grab your calls, pack your waders, and get ready for a day of wing-shooting action you won't soon forget. Let's get you out on the water and into some ducks!