This is going to greatly depend on the weather and how cold natured you are. South Texas experiences vary mild winters. The best option is to dress in layers under your waders with a jacket over top. The morning ride to the spot can be chilly but you may get warm as the sun comes up, depending on how early we are in the season.

It is recommended to bring a dark colored/camo hat with you, a beanie, gloves and a camo mask/paint to conceal your face.

The most important thing you will need is a way to stay dry, we recommend waders with wade boots or at a minimum, hip waders. You will have to step into water when you get off the boat. The boat seats often get wet/muddy throughout the morning so waders are best to stay dry.

If rain is forecasted, a waterproof jacket and a hat are recommended.

You will need to bring your shotgun with you. It must have a plug and only be able to hold a total of 3 shotgun shells when fully loaded. The salt and mud can be hard on your gun so we recommend a synthetic shotgun and wiping it down after the hunt. Bring your unloaded gun in a soft gun case to protect it on the boat ride.

You will need to bring steel shot shells. Lead shot will not be allowed onto the boat. We recommend 4 or 5 shot size but bring whatever you’re confident shooting. Bring 1-3 boxes depending on what you may need to get your 6 bird limit.

Your guide will utilize duck calls but you may bring yours, if desired.

We will allow your trained retriever to accompany you on the hunt. This must be communicated with the guide prior to the hunt. Please do not show up the morning of the hunt with your retriever without notifying your captain at least a day before.

It is best if your retriever has had experience on an airboat. If not, have a leash available in case it is needed.

Airboats are loud, we do have earmuffs available for your retriever if you would like to use them.

We typically have water available for the dogs, but you may bring your own if desired.

There is a lot that goes into setting up to hunt ducks. Your guide will provide decoys, a blind if needed, mud seats, an ice chest for drinks, game straps.

We typically have some extra gear on the boat, if needed.

Arroyo City is off the beaten path. If you are looking to stay in the city, there are homes available for rent. Arroyo City does not have a gas station, the closest one is in Rio Hondo. There is a restaurant and baitshops in Arroyo City. If you need coffee in the morning, your best bet is to make sure your rental home provides this service. If you want snacks to take on your trip, you may want to pick some up to before you get into Arroyo City.

The closest town with a hotel is either Harlingen or Los Fresnos. Both of these towns have fast food restaurants and gas stations but are a longer drive to the boat launch.

Adolph Thomae Jr County Park, where we launch the boat, has RV and campsites available for rent.

We launch our trips out of Adolph Thomae Jr County Park. A park pass will be required to enter the park; they offer daily passes for $10 which can be purchased the morning of your trip upon entrance to the park.

There are two boat launches. Follow the main park road and you will dead end into the boat launch we will use. Your captain will contact you the morning of if this changes.