Anyone use an inflatable raft to retrieve downed birds?

[biggfish]

I was thinking next year I'd spend my focus on ducks next season, only problem is I have no dog or duck boat. I've got no room for a skiff and I'm to big for a Jon boat sneak boat type vessel. I hunt calm water so fighting current is no issue. Just need to be able to retrive decoys and downed birds.

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[YoungFowler]

If your already wearing waders and there is no current, you could use a float tube


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[scotrobe]

I just bought a cheap inflatable boat (that holds over 400 lbs.) from Walmart for $35 (Seahawk 2) for this exact reason.

[Bill W]

spinning rod and a bass plug

[EWUeagles]

Not knowing what you're actually it's hard to give a real recommendation. If it's a small pot hole or pond a float tube or any inflatable boat will be fine. If you're hunting a larger lake or pond where a bird could be out a couple 100 yards in my opinion neither of those are good options. Cripples happen and it's your duty to try to retrieve them. How big are you? Have you thought about an aquapod with a small motor? Like I said you maybe hunting a tiny piece of water that really any boat will work.

[EagleEye]

Here is a second vote for the Seahawk 2.  I have used many kinds over the years and the Seahawk was one of the best.  Just be aware that they all have the same problem -- they work until they don't.  At some point you'll find yourself out on the water and the thing is losing air.  I have had a couple of sketchy moments and hunts cut short. In my experience each boat is good for a season but if you try to use it much longer than that you'll have issues.  Also, watch for sharp ice when the weather gets colder and always wear a life vest. 

[bhawley76]

Wetsuit and flippers 

[Colin]

Best way to avoid buying a boat is to hunt fields

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[biggfish]

I'd been hunting out of the blind in Elma, it's basically a big pot hole it's small but deep. I've thought about maybe going to Kapowsin since its close, I've paddled around that lake in an inflatable kayak with no issues. I know cold will make them lose air faster so I figured a pump would have to be carried along too. Aquapod wouldn't work for me I weight 440. I'd love to but fields but I can't find any that aren't being leased for extravagant amounts of money.

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[lokidog]

Wetsuit and flippers 

That's what I did in the dune lakes down in OR when I first moved to the west coast.  I ran some straps across an innertube.  It worked great!

[Colin]

Just gotta keep banging on doors. Lots of AG land in that valley.

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[sakoshooter]

If your already wearing waders and there is no current, you could use a float tube
I've thought many times of using my float tube. It's dark green so I could just sit out in the decoys.

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[jagermiester]

I would say once the weather changes it would be important to have a sturdy boat. A blow up air mattress would work but its just not worth the risk. Do you have any hunting grounds that don't exceed your waders? Good luck and be safe.

[boneaddict]

I used a float tube instead of a dog for years. 

[YellowDog]

I'd be considering a used portable if it were me and depending on how accessible the pond/lake is from your vehicle.