The Top 5 Backpacks For Waterfowl Hunting for 2023

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Written By: Zach Miller


"When it comes to hunting waterfowl, the typical duck hunter finds themselves either having the ideal setup on private land where they can leave gear already set up or hunt public land. When it comes to doing either, weight is your biggest enemy when making the hike in and out of your spot."

Photo Compliments Of: Peter Corbin

In this list I will be breaking down my top 5 packs for waterfowl hunting. Keep in mind, these packs are not like the typical blind bags we see many hunters carrying. If you haven't already, go check out The Top 5 Blind Bags for Duck Hunters article. These are a list of packs that I have used in hunts of different environments and conditions, I have done my best to truly proof each one of these and see where they helped me and also restricted me during a public land hunt.


  1. Dr. Duck Hunt Locker Backpack


When it comes to backpacks in a waterfowl hunting setting, this pack sets itself apart from the competition. Now, let me break here to say that the 1.0 version of this was the GOAT (greatest of all time) in terms of packs and is what I currently use. “The Hunt Locker 2.0 is the ultimate backpack organization system. Built with Dura-pel weather-proof material and water-resistant zippers, the Hunt Locker is designed to keep your gear dry and organized. The bag features an integrated shelving system, which allows you to arrange your equipment in a systematic way and prevents you from losing your gear in the bottom of your bag. The shelving system is 100% adjustable and can be completely removed. Water-resistant YKK® Aquagaurd zippers provide protection from moisture.” (Dr. Duck, 2023)

Photo Copyright: DrDuck.com

  1. Filson Camo Backpack Dry Bag


        Filson is a very very close second here, the only thing placing it in second place is the lack of shelving. This bag is one of the most durable and rugged packs I’ve ever used, it keeps the classic design that Filson typically delivers without sacrificing the dependability in the field. This pack is quite literally one that you can dunk into a stream… or in my case fall into a river after a few too many… anyway. The point is, this will ensure everything you have is kept 100% dry. 

Photo Copyright: Filson 1897

  1. Sitka Gear Timber Pack


The Sitka Gear Timber Pack is the most recent to hit the market in terms of packs for duck hunting. Say what you will about Sitka Gear but this pack earned its place here within the top 5. “A radical treehugger, the Timber Pack clings to bare trunks to keep your gear (even your gun) safely above the waterline. Unzipped, the large main compartment hangs open, exposing multiple zippered mesh pockets that keep you organized. The welded rubber bottom keeps your gear dry in the bottom of the boat, and the no-muck straps come clean of even the stickiest mud.” (Sitka Gear, 2023)

Photo Copyright: Sitka Gear

4. First Lite Ground Control Pack


First Lite as a whole is a truly great brand and they produce a line of products that holds up and can be trusted in the field. As of recently they have been diving more into the waterfowl community and we simply love to see it! “The pursuit of waterfowl takes on many different forms from flyway to flyway and season to season, but regardless of hunting style, the Ground Control Pack hauls everything hardcore hunters need for long mornings of directing air traffic into the landing zone. The adaptive versatility of this pack allows it to be optimized for every hunt with multiple carry configurations, stowable backpack straps, external molle panel platforms + accessories, and an internal folding divider system. Constructed of a durable 600D body fabric with a double-sided TPU coating, the Ground Control Pack features a sonic welded bathtub design to keep your gear dry through seasons of abuse on the water.” (First Lite, 2023)

Photo Copyright: First Lite Gear

  1. Rig'Em Right Lowdown Floating Backpack


Rig’Em Right is such a great brand when it comes to supplying the modern waterfowl hunter. Their gear speaks for itself and having used these on many a goose hunt, this pack is worthy of a top five position. The compartments and camouflage patterns give this the proper respect it deserves. FYI, this pack is also falling into swamp proven by yours truly. “A backpack with the quality and durability of a deluxe backcountry pack with all the features needed to sling mud in the duck marsh. This bag features full foam floatation throughout, deluxe molded EVA bottom, built-in sunglasses case, integrated unique paracord handle, thermos holder, side and front handles with daisy chain for attaching Rig'Em Right® Decoy Anchor Clips, padded airfoam backrest and shoulder straps and a large internal compartment for carrying lots of gear. Additionally, this backpack has an internal pocket for laptop or tablet, enabling it to double as a travel bag. This is truly the ultimate waterfowlers backpack.” (Rig’Em Right, 2023)

Photo Copyright: Rig'em Right

In conclusion, a ruck, pack or backpack is vital when it comes to public land hunting. The pack in itself will allow a one person team to bring everything they need to have a successful hunt without being bogged down along the way. Some things to consider before doing this, beer will only help 25% of the initial trek in, proper conditioning and scouting will make up for the rest of it. There is nothing worse than cracking a few adult beverages the night/morning prior and realizing you cant make that trek in. All jokes aside, the proper pack is the one that fits YOU the best, be resourceful and have fun.



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