So you’re ready to book a trip with Williamson Outfitters (or maybe you’ve already reserved your hunt) but still have a few questions? No worries! Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to Capt. Chris Williamson anytime: Call or Text: 850-251-8650, or Email: chrisw.fas@gmail.com
When and where do we meet?
You’ll receive a text message typically around 7pm or 8pm on the evening before your scheduled hunt with detailed meeting time and location. If weather becomes an issue, we’ll notify you immediately with updates or adjustments.
What licenses and permits are required to duck hunt in Florida?
Hunters age 16 and older must have all four of the following:
1. Florida Hunting License
2. Florida Waterfowl Permit
3. Florida Migratory Bird Permit (HIP)
4. Federal Duck Stamp
*Licenses, permits, and stamps can be purchased at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or through the MyFWC mobile app.
What shotgun and shells should I bring?
12- or 20-gauge shotgun with a modified or full choke. 1–2 boxes of non-toxic shells per hunt (3" length, shot sizes #2, #3, or #4 work best for North Florida). MIGRA® Ammunition is available for purchase at the lodge. Call Capt. Chris at 850-251-8650 to check availability.
Do I need waders?
Yes. Some hunts require entering the water, and weather conditions can make waders essential for comfort and safety. We have affordable waders available for sale at the main lodge.
When is the best time of the season to hunt?
Traditionally, late November through early January provides the best success. However, every season is different—duck movement can vary greatly with weather, tides, and migration timing.
Are afternoon hunts as productive as morning hunts?
It depends! Flight patterns change daily due to factors like tide, moon phase, wind, and hunting pressure. Some days birds fly better in the morning, others in the afternoon—and occasionally not much at all. To maximize your experience, we recommend booking at least two days, ideally including one full-day hunt.
What species of ducks do you typically harvest?
Since 2019, Williamson Outfitters has harvested 25 species of waterfowl. Roughly 80% are divers such as redheads, bluebills, and buffleheads. Other common species include: canvasbacks, teal, ringnecks, scoters, snow geese, gadwalls, pintails, mallards, mergansers, goldeneyes, wigeon, shovelers, wood ducks, coots, and ruddy ducks.
Can I bring my own dog?
Yes—experienced retrievers are welcome with a few conditions:
- Accepted breeds: Retrievers (Labrador, Chesapeake Bay, Golden), Spaniels (Boykin, American, Irish), Poodles, and Pointers (GSP, GWP, WPG)
- Dogs must be trained to at least a started level—steady in the blind and responsive to “sit,” “here,” and “heel.”
- Aggressive behavior (biting, growling, etc.) is strictly prohibited and may end the hunt early.
- Dogs must be healthy and free from contagious conditions.
- Dogs are allowed inside the lodge only with prior approval from Capt. Chris Williamson.
