Gearing Up

Shotguns, chokes, shells, and gun cases are four very important items for your Manitoba waterfowl hunt. Make sure your shotgun fits you properly, contains a modified/medium range choke, can reliably cycle two to four boxes of shells each day, and is accompanied by a soft case or gun sock during transportation to and from the field. 12-gauge shotguns are the most common, but 20-gauges are also very effective. For cross border transportation, please make sure your shotgun is enclosed in a hard case with TSA-approved locks.

Shotgun shells can be daunting to choose. For waterfowling, our guides’ top recommendation is a 3-inch shell with number 2 shot. This will give you more pellets and a solid pattern. They’re not prone to jamming (consistent crimps) and they are a lot easier on the shoulder. They also work well for ducks, geese and cranes. A 3-inch shell with BB shot is a good alternative for late season geese, especially giant Canadas. 3½-inch shells tend to jam guns and give inconsistent patterns. 

If you’d prefer to rent, please see our Shotgun Rental Program page for more information. Shotgun shells can be purchased at local sporting goods stores upon your arrival in Winnipeg.

Light-coloured camouflage outerwear (including hats) is recommended in these parts. Dark colours tend to stick out among our tan stubble and natural cover, and birds will be on the lookout for darker silhouettes. Here’s what we recommend you bring: 

• Camouflage hat and face mask
• Waterproof/Gore-Tex camouflage outerwear (pants/bib and jacket shell)
• Insulating vest or light jacket underlayer (we recommend Primaloft or down)
• Moisture-wicking base layers with short or long sleeves
• Warm, comfortable rubber boots (Muck, BOGS, or LaCrosse are great choices)
• Warm mitts, gloves or shooting gloves

Blind bags are ideal for organizing your hunt and carrying your gear. Choose one that’s medium to large, semi-waterproof, and able to accommodate your important gear. This is our list of recommended items: 

• A good headlamp with extra batteries
• Shooting glasses or sunglasses
• Duck, goose and crane calls (we encourage guests to bring their calls, and you can prepare by watching our video)
• Bird lanyard or carrying strap
• 2 to 3 boxes of shotgun shells
• Gun oil
• Ear plugs/protection
• Hunting licences
• Personal identification
• Gun declaration form
• Hunter Safety/Education card
• Camera
• Personal items

All depends :)