5 Best Binoculars for Duck Hunting, Waterfowl & Geese

Whether you are a beginner or a pro at duck hunting, you must be aware of how scouting is essential for being successful at it. That is exactly when your binoculars come in handy. Therefore, investing in the best binoculars for duck hunting, waterfowl and geese is always a great idea.

While all binoculars seem to work the same, their features tend to vary greatly and so do their results. There are tons of similar-looking binoculars on the market and finding the right one can be an overwhelming experience, especially for a newbie. Fret not! I have got you covered.

We asked Geoffrey Mead, an expert waterfowl hunter what he looks for in binoculars. “ I‘m looking for a hunting binocular that can handle the elements and keep up with me when I‘m out in the marsh. I want optics that are waterproof and fog proof for when I‘m in cold, wet conditions – which can happen quite a bit in waterfowl or early season. I also need binoculars with a wide field of view so I can quickly scan the sky and spot ducks from a distance. Finally, I want good light transmission and image clarity so I can see the ducks ‘ features clearly .”

After thorough research and with hunting season not far, I have compiled a list of the finest binoculars for duck scouting. So, read through it and thank me later!

In a hurry? Here are my top recommended binoculars for duck hunting!

1. Upland Optics Perception Hunting Binoculars
2. Vanguard Endeavor ED Binoculars
3. Vortex Optics Diamondback Binoculars
4. Wingspan Optics Thunderbird Ultra HD Binoculars
5. Carson 3D Series HD Binoculars

Best Binoculars for Duck Hunting & Waterfowl

1. Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm Hunting Binoculars

The quality of binoculars can be determined by the quality of the lenses that are used in them. The lenses of Upland Optics binoculars are made with the finest extra-low dispersion glass.

Their binoculars are specially designed keeping the needs of a hunter in mind. Therefore, the pair is sturdy with fully multi-coated lenses that prevent reflection and keep the glass protected. You also get a clearer and improved vision free of any distortion.

If you wear glasses, these binoculars have a solution for you. They provide relief to the eyes up to 17.2 mm, which means you can keep a distance between your eyes and the cup of the lens and still get a clear view. What an amazing feature, right?

Another important feature that makes it the best binoculars for duck hunting is the water-proof and fog-proof design. If the weather goes rough or your field gets dusty, these binoculars will still provide the distortion-free view.

The package includes a neck strap, lens protectors and cloth, and a cover for the protection of the binoculars. As per my research, the lens provides a clear and wide field of view just as claimed by Upland Optics.

Features

• Extra-low dispersion glass for the clearest view
• 44 lbs in weight
• 10x zooming capability
• No change in durability or performance due to rain or fog
• 42mm lens with a wide field of view

Interested in elk hunting? Have a look at my best tips and recommended binoculars for elk hunting.

2. Vanguard Endeavor ED 10×42 Binoculars

If you are looking for a pair of binoculars that can stand the storm and still work like a beast, Vanguard Endeavor ED 10×42 can be your best pick.

The body is nitrogen-filled so that there is no chance for moisture to seep inside and mess with its functionality. Therefore, they are entirely water and fog-proof. The finest quality rubber on these binoculars offers comfort to the hands while protecting the overall body and keeping it lightweight.

The advanced coating of the lenses ensures better light transmission and a clear view even when the lighting is low. These binoculars also have extra-low dispersion glass which provides the clearest view with perfect colors.

My favorite feature is the adjustable eyecups to 3 different stages with long eye relief. Plus, the bridge of the binoculars is also ergonomically designed and adjusts naturally to the movement of the hands. The lock setting on the control knob makes it more convenient to adjust the focus and fix it as per your needs.

The field of view is 340ft. at 1000 yards which is wide enough for you to get a good landscape view. The lens can zoom up to 10 times without blurring the view at all.

Features

• Lightweight waterproof and fog proof design
• 3 different settings for adjusting eyecups
• Lifetime warranty to repair or replace in case of any damage
• Anti-reflective glass with better light transmission
• Ergonomically designed with an open bridge to fit in the hands naturally

3. Vortex Optics Diamondback Classic Binoculars

It is safe to start by saying that these binoculars by Vortex Optics are the best ones in the market for hunters. You may ask why? You get an amazingly durable pair fully backed by their incredible customer service.

As per an enormous number of reviews over the internet, the customer service by Vortex Optics often leaves the customer astounded with quick replacement and instant shipment. They provide a lifetime warranty for replacement of the binoculars or any of the accessories in case of damage or loss.

Let’s move on to the great features this model offers us. The design is compact, lightweight and sturdy enough to stand rough weather conditions and even poor handling. The body is covered with rubber and filled with nitrogen for protection from moisture.

The eyecups are adjustable for your convenience. The focus can be changed with the help of a knob in the middle of the eyecups. In the front, there is a socket provided for tripod adaptation. The package comes with a neck strap, lens covers for protection and a semi-stiff case for your binoculars.

Features

• Compact and durable design
• Backed by a lifetime warranty and quick customer service
• Protected fully from water and fog
• Can be magnified up to 10 times and has a 42 mm diameter for each lens

“I love the Vortex Optics Diamondback because of its amazing clarity and durability. It‘s perfect for long days in the field and its rugged construction can handle the toughest conditions. The lenses are fully multi–coated, so they provide excellent light transmission and image quality. Plus, the fast–focus eyepiece ensures that I can quickly acquire my target. With its lifetime warranty, I can be sure that this scope will be with me for the long haul.” confirmed Geoffrey.

4. Wingspan Optics Thunderbird Ultra HD 8X42 Binoculars

If you are looking for specialized scouting binoculars for scouting ducks, waterfowl and geese, Wingspan Optics Thunderbird binoculars can be a perfect pick for the duck hunt.

This pair gives you a zoomed-in image with sharp and bright colors. The extra-low dispersion glass and the phase-correction coated prism lenses provide a distortion-free high-resolution view of the birds. You can see the tiny details on their feathers with the kind of focus adjustments these binoculars have to offer.

They can be magnified up to 8 times and can be closely focused up to 2m. With the help of these binoculars, you can get a great field of view of 420ft. at 1000 yards. These binoculars also offer great relief to the eyes and are perfect for those who wear glasses.

Features

• Get 22.5 mm eye relief with these binos
• Fully multi-coated 42mm lens for sharp and HD view
• Extra low dispersion glass ensures clarity and contrast of the image
• Fog and waterproof
• Lifetime warranty for repair and replacement in case of loss or damage

5. Carson 3D Series High Definition

Are you looking for a tough-looking pair of binoculars that match the personality of a hunter perfectly? Carson 3D can be the right pick for you. These binoculars have an extremely solid look and feel to them.

There are grooves in the lower part of the binoculars where the thumbs are placed. The body is armored by heavy-duty rubber that adds to the durability of the product. Therefore, I can tell you that these binoculars are ergonomically designed and very lightweight.

The packaging and add-ons give an edge to these binos. The package includes a carry bag, neck strap, a harness for shoulders, and covers and cloth for the lenses. These binoculars are just perfect for duck hunters and outdoor adventurers.

They have an ED glass and BAK4 prisms that ensure sharp, bright and HD images. Plus, they are backed by a warranty for repair or replacement in case of damage or loss.

Features

• Convenient packaging, suitable for hunters
• Solid look and feel, ergonomically designed
• 10x Magnification and 42 mm diameter lens
• Nitrogen filled, fog and waterproof

Duck hunting tips for beginners

You might be just looking for gear to get ready for your first duck hunting trip. The first experience can always be overwhelming because you have a lot of queries in your head which are unanswered. You might wonder what kind of location you should choose, what to wear, which gear to take, what kind of birds to look for and how to succeed.

Well, to your surprise, we are about to shed some light on the duck hunting tips and tricks for beginners out there. And let us go into some basic yet serious details for you to be prepared like a professional duck hunter!

Gear Up!

Getting geared up is obviously the first and foremost step. While gathering the gear you need, the first decision should always be about your camouflage.

Now, if you are going to hunt the ducks in the blind, camouflage wouldn’t really matter. However, if you choose a grassy field where the ducks feed, you better get yourself a lightly shaded green camo. And if you choose the woods as your location, I suggest you wear a dark camo with a leafy or bark pattern on it.

Here is a little checklist for you to assist you in gearing up nicely:

• Waterproof camo, boots, gloves and hat
• A copy of your personal ID and the license for hunting (don’t do it illegally, I tell you!)
• The best binoculars for duck hunting (check the reviews above to make the smartest choice)
• Shotgun and its case
• A compact kit for cleaning the gun (just in case!)
• Waders
• A tote bag to fit all items (consider buying a waterproof one)
• Decoy
• Compass or GPS
• Knife
• Bird / Duck calls

Get an experienced hunting partner

Considering this will be your first duck hunting experience, going with someone who has the knowledge, skill and experience can help you learn it better and gain more confidence over it as well.

They have a license already. They know how to scout, how to set up a decoy spread for the ducks and how to call them without scaring the birds away. Observe them, get clarity and become more confident on your first duck hunting trip. Trust me; doing so will give you more excitement to try it on your own later.

Scout before you hunt

To save yourself from putting in a lot of effort in setting up a decoy spread and calling ducks in the wrong place, a scout with friends or alone can be a great idea for a successful duck hunting trip.

Go around for a drive with your binoculars and look for grassy fields and ponds where the ducks usually are. Let’s be clear about one thing; do not hunt the ducks, waterfowls and geese in their roost. The roost is the place where they go for rest and if you hunt them there, they will all find a new abode.

Hunt them in their feeding areas or loafing areas or when they are flying around.

Seek permission before getting started

Once you have found the best location for duck hunting, you must seek the permission of the people who own that property. In order to get it, make sure you are not in your hunting attire with your gun when you meet them. Also, be nice and tell them you will abide by the rules strictly and take care of their property.

Use the right weapon

Choosing the right weapon is obviously an essential yet crucial task. I would recommend a 12–gauge pump–action shotgun for someone new to duck hunting. A 12–gauge pump–action shotgun is a versatile and reliable firearm that is relatively easy to use and maintain. It is also one of the most popular and widely used firearms for duck hunting due to its accuracy and power. Additionally, pump–action shotguns are relatively affordable and offer a variety of ammunition options.

Make sure the shots are not toxic as they aren’t allowed by the law. Also, keep the species and the hunting location in mind while you are selecting the size of your shot.

Get the right decoy

Now, getting the right decoy plays a great part in duck hunting. The right decoy will always increase your chances for an amazingly successful hunting experience. Therefore, it is important to invest a little in your decoys. Nevertheless, do not get into believing that only the expensive ones will work. There are ones in the market that work well and don’t break the bank either.

You can find electronic decoys too for a more realistic feel. These decoys make the wings move and water ripple just like real ducks do.

Work on duck calling

You cannot obviously be perfect at it from the beginning. Get tips from your experienced friends, watch tutorials and start working on it for improvement.

We have a great tutorial below on improving your duck calling for beginners.

Duck calling tips for beginners. Making it hum.

Hunt with a license

There are a lot of rules and regulations when it comes to duck hunting. Therefore, I suggest you start it by getting on the legal road. Get the proper education, get a license and required a permit and then get started!

We are sure you have found the best binoculars for duck hunting after giving this article a thorough read. If not, scroll up and find the perfect match for your budget and your hunting needs.

Conclusion

With the tips and tricks given above, you cannot go wrong with your first duck hunting trip. Just take someone experienced along, make sure you are doing it legally and get the right gear that that is worth every penny.

I also believe you have found the best binoculars for duck hunting after giving this article a thorough read. Still confused? Let me suggest my favourite one that is Vanguard Endeavor ED 10×42. It has got the best features perfectly suitable for a duck hunter.

Upland Optics Perception is one of my favourites for scouting ducks and mallard. If you want a perfect bino pair that won’t break the bank, this should be your only choice.

However, if you are low on budget and want a cheaper pair, your best pick would be Vortex Optics binoculars or Wingspan Optics Thunderbird. They provide the right features for scouting geese while being on the affordable side.

Happy duck hunting!