Calling mallards is an essential skill for any duck hunter looking to improve their success in the field. Mastering the art of imitating mallard vocalizations can significantly increase the chances of attracting these popular waterfowl to your hunting spot. The three most important calls for hunting mallards are the basic quack, feeding chuckle, and hail call.

Mallards are known for their distinctive vocalizations, with hen mallards being particularly vocal. Hunters often focus on mimicking hen mallard calls to attract both male and female ducks to their decoy spread. While there are numerous mallard calls, beginners can start by learning the basic quack, which is the foundation for more advanced calling techniques.

Experienced duck hunters often use a combination of calls to create a realistic scenario that appeals to mallards. The feeding chuckle simulates contented ducks in a feeding frenzy, while the hail call is used to grab the attention of distant birds. By practicing these calls and understanding when to use them, hunters can greatly enhance their ability to attract mallards and other duck species to their hunting location.

Basics of Mallard Calls

Mastering mallard calls is essential for successful duck hunting. The key lies in understanding the mallard’s vocal repertoire and learning to replicate their most common sounds.

Understanding the Mallard’s Vocabulary

Mallards use a variety of vocalizations to communicate. The quack is the most recognizable sound, typically made by hen mallards. It can vary in length, volume, and tone depending on the situation.

The greeting call is a series of loud, excited quacks used to attract other ducks. Hunters often employ this call when ducks are at a distance.

A comeback call consists of softer, more pleading quacks. It’s used to persuade ducks that have flown away to return to the area.

The feed call mimics the contented sounds mallards make while feeding. It’s a rapid series of short, soft quacks that can help convince passing ducks to join the perceived feast.

Types of Mallard Calls

Duck calls are designed to imitate specific mallard vocalizations. The most common type is the single-reed call, which can produce a wide range of sounds with practice.

Double-reed calls are easier for beginners to use. They provide a more realistic hen mallard sound but offer less versatility than single-reed calls.

Whistle calls are used to mimic pintails, widgeons, and other whistling ducks. Some mallard calls incorporate a whistle feature for added versatility.

Electronic calls produce pre-recorded duck sounds. While effective, their use is often restricted or prohibited during hunting seasons.

Wooden calls offer a rich, mellow tone but require more maintenance than plastic calls. Acrylic calls produce louder, sharper sounds that carry well over long distances.

Advanced Calling Techniques

Mastering advanced mallard calling requires precision, control, and nuanced technique. Top callers leverage subtle variations in cadence, air pressure, and vocalization to create lifelike sounds that entice ducks.

Mastery of Cadence and Rhythm

Expert callers mimic the natural rhythm of mallard vocalizations. They vary the speed and pattern of quacks to match different duck behaviors. Quick, excited quacks can simulate feeding ducks, while slower, spaced-out calls imitate relaxed birds.

A champion caller might use a series of 5-7 quacks in descending volume to replicate a mallard hen. This cadence creates a realistic sound that catches ducks’ attention.

Callers also incorporate subtle peeps and grunts between quacks. These small sounds add authenticity and can make the difference in fooling wary birds.

Air Pressure Control

Precise air pressure control is crucial for producing authentic mallard sounds. Callers modulate their breath to create variations in volume and tone.

A soft exhale produces quiet, contented feeding chuckles. Increased air pressure generates louder hail calls to grab distant ducks’ attention.

To end a quack naturally, callers abruptly cut off air flow. This technique creates the characteristic sharp finish of a real mallard vocalization.

For a pleading call, sustained air pressure combines with a slight increase in pitch. This creates an urgent sound that can turn reluctant ducks.

Specific Calls for Different Species

Different duck species have distinct vocalizations hunters can imitate. Mastering calls for various waterfowl expands hunting opportunities beyond mallards.

Pintail and Wigeon Calls

The pintail whistle is essential for hunters in regions where mallards are less common. It produces a clear, high-pitched sound that attracts pintails effectively. Wigeon calls mimic the species’ characteristic whistle.

Gadwall calls have a raspier quality compared to mallards. Hunters often use a mallard call with slight modifications to imitate gadwalls.

When calling pintails, use short, sharp whistles in groups of 3-5. For wigeons, produce a prolonged, rising whistle followed by shorter notes.

Calls for Teal and Wood Ducks

Teal-specific calls are tuned higher than mallard calls. They require more air pressure and a faster cadence.

Blue-winged teal make rapid, high-pitched peeps. Green-winged teal produce brief, loud whistles. When calling either species, use quick, staccato notes.

Wood duck calls imitate the species’ distinctive squealing sound. These calls are higher-pitched and more nasal than mallard calls.

For best results, practice imitating the natural rhythm and pitch of each species’ vocalizations.

Diver Ducks Communication

Diver ducks, including scaup, redheads, and canvasbacks, have unique calling patterns. Their vocalizations are generally lower-pitched and more guttural than dabbling ducks.

Bluebills (scaup) produce a purring sound. Redheads make a cat-like meow. Canvasbacks have a low, croaking call.

When calling divers, use short, low-pitched notes in rapid succession. Vary the rhythm to mimic natural calling patterns.

Diver duck calls often work best in combination with decoys and proper positioning on the water.

Hunting Strategies Using Calls

Effective duck calling combined with strategic decoy placement can significantly improve mallard hunting success. Adapting techniques to different environments and situations is crucial for consistent results.

Decoy Spread and Calling

A well-planned decoy spread enhances the effectiveness of duck calls. Arrange decoys in a J-hook pattern, leaving an open landing zone. Place 12-24 decoys upwind, with the hook curving downwind. This setup mimics natural mallard behavior.

Start with soft, subtle calls as ducks approach. Use a basic quack to get their attention. Transition to feeding chuckles and content calls as they near the decoys. Avoid overcalling, which can spook wary birds.

For large water bodies, incorporate a hail call to attract distant mallards. In timber or flooded fields, focus on softer, more intimate calls like the feed call or lonesome hen.

Adapting to Hunting Situations and Environments

Adjust calling techniques based on weather and duck behavior. On calm days, use softer calls to avoid alerting birds to your presence. During windy conditions, increase call volume and frequency.

In late season, when mallards become call-shy, reduce calling and rely more on decoy spreads. Use single quacks or light feeding chuckles to add realism.

For public land hunting, where ducks face more pressure, call sparingly. Focus on accurate duck sounds rather than loud, aggressive calling.

In timber hunting, use soft, raspy calls that mimic ducks in the trees. For open water, incorporate more varied calling sequences, including hail calls and comeback calls.

Call Selection and Usage

Selecting the right call and using it effectively are crucial skills for successful mallard hunting. Proper technique and equipment maintenance can significantly improve your chances of attracting ducks.

Material and Design of Calls

Duck calls come in various materials, including wood, acrylic, and polycarbonate. Wood calls produce a warm, mellow tone that mimics a duck’s natural sound. Acrylic calls offer durability and consistent performance in wet conditions. Polycarbonate calls provide a balance of affordability and reliability.

Call designs range from single-reed to double-reed configurations. Single-reed calls allow for greater versatility and volume control but require more skill to use effectively. Double-reed calls are easier for beginners to master and produce a raspier, more realistic duck sound.

Some calls feature a built-in mallard whistle for producing high-pitched peeps and whines. These combination calls can be useful for imitating both hen and drake vocalizations.

Choosing the Right Call for You

Consider your skill level and hunting style when selecting a call. Beginners may prefer a double-reed call for its ease of use and forgiving nature. Experienced hunters often opt for single-reed calls to achieve a wider range of sounds and volumes.

Test different calls before purchasing to find one that feels comfortable and produces the desired tones. Look for a call that can produce clear, crisp quacks as well as softer feeding chuckles and lonesome hen calls.

Choose a call that matches the specific hunting environment. In open water, a louder, more projecting call may be necessary. For close-range hunting in flooded timber, a softer, more subtle call is often more effective.

Maintenance and Care of Calls

Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of duck calls. After each use, disassemble the call and rinse it with clean water to remove any debris or saliva buildup. Allow all components to dry completely before reassembling.

Periodically inspect the reed for signs of wear or damage. Replace worn reeds to maintain call quality and prevent unexpected failures in the field. Apply a small amount of food-grade silicone spray to moving parts to keep them functioning smoothly.

Store calls in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage. Avoid exposing calls to extreme temperatures, which can warp materials and affect sound quality. With proper care, a quality duck call can last for many hunting seasons.

Notable Call Makers and Brands

Duck call making has a rich history filled with innovators and craftsmen who have shaped the art of waterfowl calling. From early pioneers to modern manufacturers, these individuals and companies have left an indelible mark on the sport of duck hunting.

Pioneers of Duck Calling

Chick Major stands out as a seminal figure in duck call making. Born in 1896, Major is credited as one of the fathers of modern-day duck calling. He developed the Arkansas-style duck call in the Grand Prairie region, crafting his Dixie Mallard Calls from Kentucky walnut.

Jim Olt and the P.S. Olt Company were also instrumental in the early days of commercial duck call production. Olt’s innovations helped standardize call manufacturing and brought quality calls to a wider audience of hunters.

The Faulk family became synonymous with Louisiana duck calling royalty. Clarence “Patin” Faulk began selling homemade cane calls in the 1930s, later joined by his son Paul “Dud” Dudley Faulk. Their collaboration in the 1950s cemented the Faulk name in call-making history.

Contemporary Brands and Innovators

Phil Robertson, founder of Duck Commander, revolutionized call making with his unique designs. His company has grown into one of the most recognizable brands in the hunting industry.

Haydel’s Game Calls, established by the Haydel family, has become a staple for many duck hunters. Their calls are known for their reliability and authentic sound.

Frank Heidelbauer has made significant contributions to call design, particularly in addressing issues like reed sticking in single-reed calls. His expertise has influenced many modern call makers.

Drake Brake Duck Calls has emerged as a popular brand among contemporary hunters, offering a range of calls suited for various hunting situations.

World champion callers often transition into call making, bringing their expertise to product design. Their competition success lends credibility to their calls, attracting hunters seeking top-tier performance.

Ethical Considerations and Best Practices

Responsible mallard hunting extends beyond effective calling techniques. Ethical practices and sportsmanship are crucial for sustainable hunting and preserving the integrity of the sport.

Avoiding Overcalling and Call-Shy Ducks

Excessive calling can educate ducks, making them wary of hunters’ calls. Experienced hunters recognize the importance of restraint and timing. They limit their calls to mimic natural duck behavior, using short sequences rather than continuous calling.

Call-shy ducks require a subtle approach. Hunters may opt for soft, infrequent calls or rely more on decoys and natural cover. Reading duck behavior is key to adjusting calling strategies effectively.

Hunters should vary their calling patterns and locations to prevent ducks from associating specific areas with danger. This helps maintain the effectiveness of calls over time.

Elevating Sportsmanship

Ethical duck hunting promotes fair chase principles and respect for the quarry. Hunters should prioritize clean, quick kills and make every effort to retrieve downed birds.

Proper firearm handling and shot selection are essential. Hunters must know their effective range and avoid taking risky shots that may only wound ducks.

Respecting fellow hunters is crucial. This includes maintaining appropriate distances between hunting parties and avoiding interfering with others’ setups or calling.

Many experienced duck hunters mentor youngsters, passing on not just calling skills but also ethical practices. This ensures the longevity of the sport and fosters a culture of responsibility.