Boat Blinds: Best Options For Hunters

Duck hunting boats are designed to allow hunters to navigate through the water and reach remote locations. They also provide a level of concealment for the hunter, with camouflage paint and a boat hunting blind. A duck boat blind is typically a frame covered with canvas or synthetic fabric, which can be removed when not in use. There are various options available for duck boat blinds, including pop-up blinds, hard blinds, and custom-built blinds. Some popular brands include Avery, Beavertail, Mud Buddy, and Cabela's Northern Flight. When choosing a boat blind, hunters consider factors such as ease of setup and takedown, compatibility with their boat, weather protection, and cost.

Pop-up blinds

One user review of a Pop-Up Blind from Pop-Up Blinds praises the quality, fit, and finish of the product, as well as the level of concealment it provides. However, the same review also notes some drawbacks, such as reduced room in the boat, limited visibility due to the placement of mesh windows, and the need for grassing straps to match the surroundings. The cost of the blind, ranging from $1,200 to $3,000, is also mentioned as a potential drawback.

Another user review mentions that they purchased a Pop-Up Blind for their 16' War Eagle and are happy with the product, particularly the way it pops open and the level of concealment it provides.

In summary, pop-up blinds offer a convenient, effective, and comfortable option for hunters seeking to conceal themselves from waterfowl. While they may have some drawbacks, such as reduced space and visibility, they provide a quick and easy way to set up a concealed hunting position on a boat.

Hard blinds

One example of a hard blind is the Cabela's Northern Flight Boat Blind. This blind has a fully adjustable, all-steel frame that can be installed on boats ranging from 14 to 18 feet long with beams up to 78 inches wide. It uses quick-release clamps and includes heavy-duty zip ties for attaching camo netting (not included). The blind can be easily raised and lowered with four quick-release pins, and it comes with tie-down straps for highway travel.

Another popular option for a hard blind is the Avery Quick-Set. This blind has been described as "solidly built" and offers more room inside when set up. It also features a 90-degree vertical setup, making it easier to add permanent natural cover. The Avery Quick-Set is easy to put up solo and can be stored flat during the off-season.

Some hunters prefer to make their own hard blinds. One person described building a frame out of electrical conduit using a pipe bender and then covering it with plastic chicken wire and synthetic camo material. This DIY approach allows for customisation and can result in a low-profile blind that is easy to see and shoot from.

When choosing a hard blind, it is important to consider factors such as ease of setup and takedown, compatibility with your boat, and the level of cover and protection provided. Some blinds may also offer features like dog doors or flip tops for added convenience and concealment. Ultimately, the best hard blind for your needs will depend on your specific hunting setup and preferences.

Camouflage

Boat blinds typically consist of a frame covered with a canvas or synthetic fabric material. The frame is designed to be adjustable, allowing it to fit a range of boat sizes. The fabric used for the cover is often a camouflage pattern, helping the hunter blend into their surroundings and remain hidden from their prey. Some boat blinds also offer the option of attaching additional camo netting or personalised camo patterns to further enhance concealment.

When selecting a boat blind, hunters should consider the level of camouflage it provides and whether it can be customised to match their specific hunting environment. The ability to add natural cover, such as gullie grass or synthetic material, can also improve concealment and make the blind more effective.

Additionally, the design of the boat blind can impact its camouflaging abilities. For example, the Avery Quick-Set Duck Boat Blind features a 90-degree vertical setup, which makes it easier to add permanent natural cover. This design feature allows hunters to further customise their blind to match their hunting environment, ensuring maximum concealment.

Overall, when choosing a boat blind, hunters should carefully consider the level of camouflage it provides and the customisation options available to ensure they select a blind that effectively conceals them from their prey.

Ease of installation

When it comes to choosing the best boat blind, ease of installation is a key consideration. You want a blind that is quick and simple to set up, so you can spend more time hunting and less time fiddling with equipment. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Many hunters opt for pop-up blinds, which are known for their convenience and ease of use. These blinds can be set up and taken down in a matter of seconds, making them a popular choice for those who want a hassle-free option. The Mud Buddy grass blind, for example, is a popular pop-up option that offers quick installation and effective concealment.

Another important factor to consider is compatibility with your boat. Some blinds, like the Beavertail blind, are designed for easy installation without the need to drill holes in your boat. This can be a significant advantage if you want to avoid making permanent modifications to your vessel. The Beavertail blind has also received praise for its quick setup and takedown, making it a convenient choice.

If you're looking for a more permanent solution, the Cabela's Northern Flight Boat Blind offers a sturdy, all-steel frame that installs easily on boats ranging from 14 to 18 feet in length. It comes with quick-release clamps and zip ties, making the installation process straightforward. The blind also features four quick-release pins, allowing for fast and easy setup and takedown.

For those who hunt with a dog, it's important to choose a blind that accommodates your four-legged companion. The Mud Buddy/Beavertail blind, for instance, features a dog door, making it a convenient option for hunters with dogs.

When it comes to customisation, some blinds offer more flexibility than others. The Avery Quick-Set, for example, allows for the addition of permanent natural cover, providing a more solid structure and better wind control. This blind is also known for its vertical setup, making it easier to add extra camouflage.

In summary, when considering the best boat blind in terms of ease of installation, look for options that offer quick setup and takedown, compatibility with your boat, and the potential for customisation. Pop-up blinds, such as the Mud Buddy, are popular for their convenience, while options like the Beavertail and Cabela's Northern Flight offer straightforward installation processes without requiring permanent modifications to your boat.

Ease of setup and takedown

The ease of setup and takedown is an important consideration when choosing a boat blind. Some blinds can be set up and taken down quickly and easily, while others may be more complicated and time-consuming.

The Avery Quick-Set Duck Boat Blind is a popular option that is known for its ease of setup and takedown. One user mentions that their Avery blind is "a few seasons old now and still performs like new", and they are able to "easily put it up solo" on their boat. Another user highlights the benefits of the Avery blind's 90-degree vertical setup, which makes it easier to add permanent natural cover.

The Beavertail blind is another highly regarded option for its quick setup and takedown. One user notes that the Beavertail blind "sets up and down quick", while another mentions that they had a Beavertail blind on their previous boat and found it easy to set up and takedown, with the added benefit of not requiring any drilling to install.

The Cabela's Northern Flight Boat Blind is also designed for easy setup and takedown, with four quick-release pins that allow the blind to go up and down effortlessly. This blind is fully adjustable and can be installed on boats ranging from 14 to 18 feet long.

Some hunters also opt for custom-made boat blinds. For example, one user handcrafted their blind using electrical conduit for the frame and synthetic camouflage material for the cover. While custom-made blinds can be tailored to specific needs, they may require more time and effort for setup and takedown.

When choosing a boat blind, it is essential to consider the ease of setup and takedown, as well as other factors such as durability, concealment, and compatibility with your boat. By selecting a blind that is quick and easy to set up and take down, hunters can maximise their time on the water and adapt to changing conditions with minimal hassle.

Frequently asked questions