Connor Merritt

When it comes to duck hunting, having access to the right hunting grounds can make all the difference. Fortunately, for those with military affiliations, there are several iSportsman base locations across the United States that offer the best places to hunt ducks in the entire country. In this article, we will explore four top iSportsman bases for duck hunting: Fort Liberty, Fort Campbell, Fort Stewart, and Edwards Air Force Base.

Best Places to Hunt Ducks

Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg)

Fort Liberty, formerly known as Fort Bragg, is not only one of the largest military installations in the world but also a prime destination for duck hunters. Situated in North Carolina, this base features an extensive network of ponds, lakes, and wetlands, making it one of the best places to hunt ducks out of any iSportsman location. The majority of this habitat is actually formed by beavers, providing crucial structure that allows for waterfowl and other endangered species to thrive.

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The installation’s iSportsman program provides hunters with access to these waterways, allowing for  hunting experiences. Species commonly found here include mallards, gadwall, teal, and a variety of other waterfowl. The most abundant species however, is the wood duck. This species has a healthy population on the base thanks to the maintenance of on-base nest boxes by volunteers from the local Boy Scouts and Fort Liberty Chapter of Ducks Unlimited. While I never personally volunteered at Fort Liberty back when I was a Boy Scout, I can attest to the level of care they must be putting into these efforts, making Fort Liberty one of the best bases for duck and waterfowl hunting in the country.

Fort Campbell

Fort Campbell, spanning the border of Kentucky and Tennessee, provides hunters with a unique opportunity to pursue waterfowl in a distinctive environment. Its proximity to the Kentucky Lake and Barkley Lake areas creates excellent habitats for ducks, geese, and other waterfowl.

The iSportsman program at Fort Campbell allows hunters to explore the various hunting zones, each with its own charm and waterfowl populations. Hunters can hunt in parties of four, and are allowed to check in with base beginning at noon the previous day. Whether you’re after mallards, gadwalls, or snow geese, Fort Campbell has something to offer all duck hunters. You can check out their season dates and bag limits here.

Fort Stewart

Nestled in coastal Georgia along the Canoochee River, Fort Stewart is a hidden gem for duck hunting. The base’s marshes, swamps, and tidal creeks create an ideal setting for waterfowl, just make sure you have everything you need before hunting.

The iSportsman program at Fort Stewart manages hunting activities and offers hunters some great opportunities to hunt ducks and other waterfowl. Here, hunters can expect encounters with teal, black ducks, and a wide array of migratory waterfowl species. The unique ecosystem and abundant birdlife make Fort Stewart a top destination for duck hunting in the southeastern United States. You can learn about their season dates and bag limits here.

Edwards Air Force Base

While primarily known for its aerospace testing and research, Edwards Air Force Base in California is also one of the best places to hunt ducks. If you want to hunt waterfowl on the base, you can head to the Piute Ponds Complex during hunting season. While there, you must hunt from a designated blind, with each blind having a maximum occupancy of four people.

The iSportsman program at Edwards AFB ensures responsible hunting practices and provides access to hunting areas. Duck hunters visiting Edwards AFB can expect to find species like cinnamon teal, northern pintail, and even the occasional mallard. The scenery and diverse bird species make this location a surprising yet excellent choice for waterfowl hunting. For more information about waterfowl hunting at Edwards AFB, check out this useful page.

Remember to check with each base’s iSportsman program for specific regulations and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable hunt. You can also find many more wonderful iSportsman locations for hunting all kinds of game on iSportsmanUSA.

Also, learn which dogs are best for duck hunting.