Visit the Outer Banks for Your Duck Hunting Expedition - By Jennifer LeVine
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Published By: Hotels OBX
By: Jennifer LeVine, AGM Comfort Inn South Oceanfront
The OBX has been a popular hunting game and waterfowl location for over a century, with duck hunting in Outer Banks, NC being the most popular activity. You will find spots where hunting is permitted, from The Hatteras Island National Seashore to the Northern beaches and the 4WD area of Carova Beach. Depending on which open season you would like to pursue, you may find over 27 species of waterfowl on the Outer Banks. Included in this list, but not limited to, are Redheads, Canvasbacks, Pintails, Buffleheads, and Widgeon. So, make plans to visit the outer banks!
Outer Banks Bird Migration
The Outer Banks' location along the Atlantic Flyway makes for an abundance of Swans, Geese, Ducks, and other waterfowl. The Outer Banks bird migration is part of the Atlantic Flyway and is one of the four major National migration routes that birds follow up and down the East Coast each year. It is a great reason to visit the Outer Banks for birdwatching and hunting.
Places to hunt in the Outer Banks
But where can you hunt when you visit the Outer Banks? While there are several prime locations, the most popular ones are on the water along Bodie Island. In the Sound, you will find many public duck blinds where you can station your boat, set up, and take aim. Just make sure you are in approved hunting areas. Locations like the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge and Pelican Island are off-limits and closed to hunters. Don't be "that guy/girl" who gets in trouble here. It is Federal land and, therefore, a Federal Offense. EEEK!
Historical Hunting Landmarks
The Northern Outer Banks and the beaches of Currituck are also popular spots to visit in the Outer Banks. This area is the OG Hunting ground on the Outer Banks. The Whalehead Club in Corolla has been around for over a century. It's an original hunting club on The Outer Banks. Once a spot for presidents to visit the Outer Banks and hunt, it's now a historical landmark. The visitor's center is also pretty cool; you should check it out! You will need a shallow draft boat to hunt the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge marshes, but the bounty of birds is sure to make it worth your effort.
Top 3 Tips for a Successful Hunting Visit to the Outer Banks
- Follow The Rules
- Hire a Guide
- Bring the Right Gear
1. Follow the rules!
Remember that all hunters on the Outer Banks must have a VALID state license and a permit or two... Getting a permit for general hunting regions on the Outer Banks can be found on the North Carolina Wildlife Resources (NCWR) website. You may also need a second permit to hunt on the Reserves and Refuges. You can apply for this additional permit at both visitor center locations on the Outer Banks. You can find further information on the rules and regulations for hunting the reserves. Before you visit the Outer Banks, plan and research which permits and documentation, you need to get the permits.
2. Do you need a guide?
The answer to this for seasoned hunters may be no, but keep in mind they will make your excursion more efficient. Newbies to the waterfowl and duck hunting scene should consider obtaining a guide, especially on their first visit to the Outer Banks. The guide will cover the boat and decoys while you take care of the guns, ammunition, and coolers. You can find guides using Google and searching for Waterfowl Guides Outer Banks. Many results will appear in a quick search; read the reviews, and set up your hunting trip with them.
3. Bring the right gear!
Waterproof clothing is a necessity for hunting here on The Outer Banks. Traveling through 2’-4' of sound water is not uncommon to get to those prime locations. Waders should be on your list to pack. Camo gear is also the way to go. Yes, you are hunting on the water, but you are using a duck blind or the marshes for stealth. Don't get spotted! Also, dress for the weather of The Outer Banks. The weather forecaster may call for a balmy 60 degrees, but the early mornings will still be in the 30s! Don't worry; our Outer Banks hotels on the beach have spacious rooms to keep everything organized.