As a seasoned waterfowl hunter and outdoor writer, I’ve spent countless hours in blinds and along riverbanks, observing and mimicking the subtle language of ducks. One of the most effective, yet often overlooked, calls in a hunter’s arsenal is the wood duck feeding call. It’s a game-changer, especially when targeting pressured birds. This guide will delve deep into the art of the feed call duck, exploring techniques, reviewing top duck calls 2022 and beyond, and helping you understand why a quality duck feed call sound can dramatically increase your success. We’ll cover everything from basic techniques to the nuances of calls from renowned duck call makers like J.J. Lares.
Understanding the Wood Duck Feeding Call
Unlike the loud quacks associated with mallards, wood ducks communicate with a softer, more subtle repertoire of sounds. The feeding mallard call, or more specifically, the wood duck feeding chuckle, is a series of quiet, rolling notes that mimic ducks dabbling for food. It’s a sound that instills confidence in wary birds, drawing them closer without raising suspicion. According to Ducks Unlimited, understanding these subtle vocalizations is key to successful waterfowl hunting.
Why Use a Feeding Call?
A duck feeding call isn’t about volume; it’s about realism. Here’s why it’s so effective:
- Attracts Curious Birds: The subtle sound piques the interest of ducks searching for food.
- Reduces Suspicion: Unlike loud hails, a feeding call doesn’t scream “hunter!”
- Works on Pressured Ducks: Birds that have been called to repeatedly are less likely to respond to traditional calls, but a realistic feeding chuckle can still pull them in.
- Versatility: While primarily used for wood ducks, a well-executed feed chuckle duck call can also work on other dabbling species.
The Difference Between a Feed Call and a Hail Call
It’s crucial to understand the difference. A hail call is a loud, attention-grabbing series of quacks designed to locate and attract ducks from a distance. A feed duck call, on the other hand, is a quiet, inviting sound used to draw ducks in close once they’re within range. Think of it as the difference between waving to someone across a field versus whispering to them nearby. REI Expert Advice emphasizes the importance of varying your calling strategy based on the situation.
Mastering the Technique: How to Do a Duck Feeder Call
Learning to produce a realistic duck feeding call sound takes practice. Here’s a breakdown of the technique:
- Diaphragm Control: Most effective feeding calls are made using a double or triple reed diaphragm call. Focus on controlling your tongue and airflow.
- Soft Palate Lift: Lift the back of your soft palate as if you’re starting to say “kuh.” This creates the necessary resonance.
- Airflow: Use a gentle, controlled airflow. Avoid forcing air through the call.
- The Chuckle: The sound should be a series of short, rolling “chuckles” or “grunts.” Imagine the sound a duck makes when it tips forward to feed.
- Vary the Rhythm: Don’t be robotic. Vary the speed and cadence of your chuckles to sound more natural.
Many hunters find it helpful to listen to recordings of real wood ducks feeding. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s All About Birds website provides excellent audio resources.
Top Duck Calls for Feeding: A Review of Field-Proven Calls
The market is flooded with duck hunting calls, but some consistently stand out for their ability to produce realistic feeding chuckles. Here’s a look at some of the best, including options for different budgets and skill levels. I’ve personally tested many of these in the field.
High-End Options (Expensive Duck Calls)
- J.J. Lares T-1: Considered by many to be the gold standard. The jj lares website showcases their craftsmanship. Known for its incredibly realistic tone and responsiveness. (Price: $300+)
- Black River Duck Calls: Hand-turned acrylic and wood calls with exceptional sound quality. They offer a range of models suited for various techniques. (Price: $250+)
- Makers Origin Duck Call: A beautifully crafted call with a focus on tonal quality and ease of use. Duck call makers like these prioritize artistry and performance. (Price: $280+)
Mid-Range Options (Duck Call Sale & Value)
- Zink Money Maker: A versatile call that performs well for both feeding and hailing. (Price: $150-$200)
- Primos Primal Tone: A reliable and affordable option that produces a decent feeding chuckle. (Price: $80-$120)
- Pacific Game Calls: Offers a good balance of quality and price, with several models suitable for feeding calls. (Price: $100-$150)
Custom & Boutique Calls (Handmade Duck Calls)
- RMC Duck Calls: Known for their innovative designs and exceptional sound quality. (Price: $200+)
- Big Lake Duck Calls: Hand-turned calls with a focus on tonal quality and responsiveness. (Price: $250+)
- Custom Wooden Duck Calls: Many independent call makers offer bespoke calls tailored to your specific preferences.
J.J. Lares Deep Dive: JJ Lares Calls & Reeds
I consistently return to J.J. Lares calls for their unmatched realism. The jj lares hybrid call is a favorite, offering a blend of responsiveness and tonal quality. Their jj lares hybrid reeds are also highly sought after, allowing you to fine-tune the sound of your call. The jj lares a5 is another popular choice. You can find more information and purchase options on the J.J. Lares website.
Understanding Duck Call Components: Reeds, Barrels, and More
To truly master the duck feed call, it’s helpful to understand the components of a duck call:
- Barrel: The main body of the call, which shapes the sound. Materials include acrylic, wood, and polycarbonate.
- Tone Board: Located inside the barrel, the tone board influences the pitch and tone of the call.
- Reed: The vibrating component that produces the sound. Common materials include mylar, polycarbonate, and metal reed duck call options. A duck call reed is crucial for sound quality.
- Insert: The part of the call that holds the reed in place.
- Soundboard: Works with the reed to create the call's tone.
Experimenting with different reeds can dramatically alter the sound of your call. A double reed duck call generally produces a more complex and realistic sound than a single reed duck call.
Cut Down Calls: A Specialized Option (Cut Down Duck Call)
A cut down duck call is a modified call with a shortened barrel. This results in a higher-pitched, raspier sound that’s particularly effective for close-range feeding calls. Many hunters prefer a cutdown duck call for its ability to mimic the subtle chuckles of feeding ducks. The makers cut duck call is a popular example. What is a cut down duck call? It's a call modified for a higher pitch and raspier tone.
Duck Call Maintenance and Tuning (How to Tune Duck Call)
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your duck call in top condition. Clean your call after each use to remove moisture and debris. You may also need to occasionally tune your call by adjusting the reed tension. Resources like Ducks Unlimited offer detailed instructions on call maintenance and tuning.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Duck Hunting with the Feed Call
The wood duck feeding call is a powerful tool for any serious waterfowl hunter. By understanding the technique, investing in a quality call – perhaps one from jj lares calls – and practicing diligently, you can dramatically increase your success in the field. Remember, it’s not about being the loudest; it’s about being the most realistic. Good luck, and happy hunting!