Premier Finger Lakes Duck Hunting Adventure

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Finger Lakes
$600 price range

Summary

Grab your waders and head out to the beautiful Finger Lakes for a classic New York duck hunt. This weekday trip with Finger Lakes Outfitters gets you on the water and in the fields before sunrise, chasing waterfowl until noon. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, the guides will help you dial in your technique and stay safe. They've got all the gear you need, from decoys to calls. You'll rotate between different setups, giving you the best shot at bagging birds as they move through the area. The season runs September to January, so you can catch different species as they migrate. Remember to dress warm, bring your license, and be ready for an early start – those ducks don't sleep in! With a max of 3 guests per trip, you'll get plenty of personal attention and good shooting opportunities.

Premier Finger Lakes Duck Hunting Adventure

Ducks in the Crosshairs

Expertly Guided Hunting Adventures

Captain Brian Neal's Expertise

Snow Goose Hunts

New York Duck Hunts

Duck Hunting Paradise in the Finger Lakes

Ready to bag some ducks in one of New York's prime waterfowl hotspots? Our weekday guided hunt in the Finger Lakes region puts you right in the action. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, you'll have a shot at some of the best duck hunting around. We'll get you set up before dawn, work our decoys, and have you calling in birds like a pro in no time.

Hunt Rundown

Our 7-hour trip kicks off at the crack of dawn – 5:30 AM sharp. We'll be out in the field or on the water, depending on where the ducks are flying that day. You'll get the full Finger Lakes experience, from misty mornings to the thrill of birds cupping their wings over the decoys. We wrap up by noon, giving you plenty of time to show off your bag and swap stories over lunch in town. The season runs from September through January, so you've got plenty of time to plan your hunt. Just remember, weekdays are where it's at – fewer hunters means more birds for us.

Blinds, Boats, and Bird Dogs

We mix it up between field and water setups to keep the ducks guessing and give you a taste of different hunting styles. In the fields, we'll hunker down in layout blinds, blending in with the corn stubble or grass. On the water, you might find yourself in a boat blind or a shoreline setup, depending on conditions. Our trusty retrievers will be on hand to fetch your birds, so you can focus on the shot. We provide all the gear you need – calls, decoys, and even waders if you're getting your feet wet. Just bring your shotgun, shells, and the right clothes for the weather. Oh, and don't forget your license and duck stamp – we can't take you out without 'em.

Why Hunters Flock Here

The Finger Lakes region is a waterfowl magnet, and our local knowledge puts you right where the action is. Whether you're calling in a flock of mallards or picking out a wood duck from the treetops, every hunt here is different. Our guides know these waters and fields like the back of their hand, and they're always happy to share tips on everything from decoy spreads to perfecting your duck call. It's not just about the hunt – it's about soaking in the beauty of the Finger Lakes at dawn, with mist rising off the water and the sound of wingbeats overhead.

Duck Lineup

Redheads are one of our prized targets here in the Finger Lakes. These diving ducks are fast flyers and make for challenging shots. They typically show up in mid-October and stick around through December. Hunters love 'em for their striking red heads and gray bodies – they make for beautiful mounts.

American Wigeons, or "baldpates" as old-timers call 'em, are another favorite. These dabblers are known for their whistling calls and their tendency to steal food from diving ducks. They're most common here in October and November. Keep an eye out for the drakes' distinctive white crown – it's a real looker.

Wood Ducks are the pretty boys of the duck world, and we get plenty of 'em early in the season. These cavity-nesters love our wooded creeks and ponds. They're fast and agile, often zipping through the trees at first light. September and early October are prime time for woodies, before they head south for the winter.

Mallards are the bread and butter of duck hunting, and we've got no shortage here. These adaptable birds are around all season long, from September opener to the January freeze-up. They respond well to calls and decoys, making them perfect for hunters of all skill levels. Nothing beats the sight of a flock of greenheads dropping into the decoys.

Blue-winged Teal are the speedsters of the duck world. These early migrants usually pass through in September and early October. They're small and fast, offering some of the most challenging wing-shooting you'll find. If you can consistently knock down bluewings, you can shoot anything with feathers.

Lock in Your Limit

Whether you're looking to fill your freezer, improve your shooting, or just enjoy a morning in the great outdoors, our Finger Lakes duck hunt has you covered. With experienced guides, prime locations, and a variety of species to target, you're in for a top-notch hunting experience. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak migration, so don't wait to book your hunt. Get in touch with Finger Lakes Outfitters today and let's get you out where the ducks are flying!

Learn more about the animals

American Wigeon

American Wigeons, or "baldpates" as old-timers call 'em, are crafty little ducks that'll keep you on your toes. They're medium-sized with a distinctive white forehead patch on the males. You'll find these guys in shallow marshes and along the edges of the Finger Lakes, often mixed in with other puddle ducks. Wigeons are big fans of aquatic plants, so look for them near weed beds and in flooded fields. They're most abundant here during fall migration, usually peaking in late October. Hunters prize wigeons for their sporty flight and excellent eating quality. These ducks are known for their whistling call, which can help you spot them even before you see 'em. Here's a local tip: wigeons are notorious for stealing food from other ducks, so setting up near a mixed spread can increase your chances. Keep an eye out for their unique feeding behavior – they'll often tip up to graze on submerged vegetation.

Blue-winged Teal

Blue-winged Teal are the speed demons of the duck world. These small, sleek ducks are known for their blazing fast flight and their early migration patterns. You'll find them hanging out in shallow wetlands, flooded fields, and along the marshy edges of the Finger Lakes. They're puddle ducks, so they prefer water they can dabble in rather than dive. The males have a distinctive white crescent on their face, while both sexes show that blue patch on the wing when they fly. September is prime time for blue-wings here – they're usually the first ducks to head south. Hunters love the challenge these birds present. They're small, fast, and often fly in tight, twisting flocks. One local tip: look for areas with plenty of floating vegetation. Blue-wings love to feed on seeds and aquatic insects found in these spots. And don't forget, these birds are sensitive to cold, so early season is your best bet before they head further south.

Mallard

Mallards are the bread and butter of duck hunting in the Finger Lakes. These large, hardy ducks are everywhere – from small farm ponds to the big lakes. You can't miss the males with their green heads and yellow bills, while the females sport that classic mottled brown look. Mallards are adaptable, so you'll find them in just about any wetland habitat. They're particularly fond of flooded timber and agricultural fields. While we see some year-round, the big push of migrants usually hits in November. Hunters love mallards for their size, abundance, and the challenge they present. These birds can be wary, especially later in the season when they've seen some pressure. They're also fantastic eating. One tip I always share: focus on your calling technique. Mallards respond well to good calling, but they can also pick out a bad call from a mile away. Practice that "greeting call" and you'll see more birds committing to your spread.

Redhead

Redheads are medium-sized diving ducks, known for their distinctive cinnamon-colored heads and blue bills. You'll often spot these beauties in deeper waters of the Finger Lakes, especially during fall migration. They're social birds, often hanging out in large flocks. Redheads prefer aquatic vegetation, so we typically set up near underwater grass beds or lily pads. Late October to early November is prime time for redhead hunting here. Hunters love 'em for their challenging flight patterns and top-notch table fare. These ducks are fast and agile, so lead 'em well when you're taking your shot. One trick I've learned over the years: mimic their distinct whistling call to draw them in closer. It takes some practice, but it can make all the difference on a slow day. Remember, redheads often mix with other diving ducks, so keep your eyes peeled for variety in the flock.

Wood Duck

Wood Ducks are the real showstoppers of the Finger Lakes. These medium-sized birds are hands-down the most colorful ducks you'll see around here, with the males sporting a rainbow of iridescent feathers. You'll find 'em in wooded swamps, beaver ponds, and along tree-lined creeks. They're cavity nesters, so they love areas with plenty of old trees. Early season is your best bet for wood ducks, as they start migrating south pretty early. September to early October is prime time. Hunters go crazy for these birds not just because they're beautiful, but also because they're challenging to shoot. Wood ducks are fast, agile, and often fly through thick cover. They're also known for their excellent taste on the table. One local trick: scout for acorn-producing oaks near water. Wood ducks love acorns, and finding a good feeding spot can lead to consistent action. Just remember, they're often most active at first and last light, so be ready early.

About the G3 Hunting Boat

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 5

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 25

Rise and shine, duck hunters! We're heading out to the scenic Finger Lakes for an early morning waterfowl adventure. This 7-hour weekday trip kicks off at 5:30 AM, giving us prime time to set up and catch those ducks as they start their day. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the sport, our experienced guides will help you hone your skills and ensure everyone stays safe. We'll mix it up with both field and water setups, adapting to where the birds are flying that day. The hunt runs from September through January, so you can experience the changing seasons and varying waterfowl species throughout the fall and early winter. No need to worry about gear - we've got you covered with all the essentials. Just bring your hunting license, any necessary permits, and dress for the weather. Waterproof boots and layers are always a good idea. By noon, we'll wrap up the hunt, hopefully with a few ducks in hand and some great stories to share. It's a perfect way to spend a weekday morning in the beautiful Finger Lakes region. So grab your camo, pack a thermos of hot coffee, and let's go bag some ducks!

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