Cleaning Your Waterfowl Hunting Gear After Every Hunt

Decoys

Your decoys work best when they look realistic and are free from mud, algae, and debris. After every hunt, remove all caked-on mud, plant material, or slime with a soft brush or cloth. Use mild soap and warm water when needed, but avoid harsh detergents that may leave a residue or fade the paint. Rinse thoroughly and let each decoy dry completely before storing to prevent mold and mildew. Proper storage means keeping them out of direct sunlight in a dry, ventilated space, ideally in a blind bag or decoy bag designed to wick away moisture buildup.

Firearms and Shotguns

Safe, dependable shooting depends on a clean firearm. After your hunt, always disassemble your shotgun, especially if it’s been exposed to moisture, rain, or salt spray. Use a bore brush and patches to clean the barrel and chambers, taking care to remove all fouling and dirty cans of oils. Pay close attention to the gas line if you use a semi-automatic shotgun, as any buildup here can affect performance.

• Lubricate all moving parts lightly with gun oil, making sure not to leave excess oil that could attract dust or gum up in cold weather.
• Treat exposed metal parts with a light coat of oil to prevent rust, and always store your firearm in a dry, well-ventilated area, separated from ammunition.
• Remember, cold weather attracts condensation—wipe down your firearm after coming in from the field.

Waders and Boots

At the end of any hunting trip, rinse your waders and boots thoroughly with fresh water—especially if you hunt in saltwater environments. Use a soft brush on stubborn mud, then inspect for tears, punctures, or seam separation. Fix minor leaks promptly with appropriate patch materials, and always let your waders and boots dry completely, both inside and out, before storage. Stuffing with newspaper or using a boot dryer can help speed up the process and prevent mold growth.

Hunting Apparel (Outerwear, Midlayers, etc)

Performance hunting clothes, like those from AVES, depend on hydrophobic coatings and technical fabrics that demand proper care. Avoid fabric softeners, which break down waterproof layers and diminish breathability. Instead, follow care instructions on garment labels, using gentle or technical detergents specifically designed for outdoor gear.

• Wash clothing in cold or lukewarm water, and hang to air dry whenever possible.
• If you notice reduced water repellency, reapply a technical waterproof treatment (spray or wash-in product) according to manufacturer recommendations to extend the life of your gear.
• Never store damp clothing; all apparel should be completely dry before it goes back into your closet or blind bag.

Calls and Small Accessories

Duck and goose calls, gloves, rigs, and other small items are often overlooked but just as prone to failure if neglected. Disassemble calls, wash reeds and cavities with mild soap, and let them dry fully before reassembling. Regularly inspect gloves and straps for wear or cracks, and replace any failing parts. Store these items in a dry compartment of your blind bag or pack, using silica gel packs to manage moisture buildup.

detailed gear inspection

Inspect for Wear and Damage

After cleaning, conduct a meticulous inspection of all your hunting equipment. Look for frayed lines on decoys, cracked plastics, bent or rusted metal parts, and faded camouflage that may compromise concealment. Check hunting knives for dull blades or loose handles, and thoroughly inspect zippers, snaps, and buckles for proper function.

Repair vs Replace

Small issues can be remedied with the right tools: patching a wader leak, sharpening a knife, or replacing a decoy line. However, gear showing extensive wear—like repeated embroidery failures, corroded fasteners, or compromised waterproof layers—should be replaced to ensure you’re not risking comfort or effectiveness next season. Keep a running list of what’s serviceable and what needs upgrading before your next hunt.

Proper off-season maintenance

Pre-Storage Cleaning Checklist

Before you put your gear away for the off season, give everything a deeper cleaning than your typical post-hunt wipe down. Remove all mud, moisture, and salt from every piece. Air dry each item until it’s completely dry—even the inside pockets or folds.

Off-Season Storage Tips

Choose a storage location that’s cool, dry, and well-ventilated to prevent mold and UV damage. Use cases or storage bags designed for hunting gear, and never seal up items in airtight containers if they aren’t thoroughly dry. Firearms should go in a gun safe with silica gel packs or dedicated dehumidifiers to prevent moisture buildup and rust.

• Hunting clothes should be stored loosely, preferably on hangers or in breathable garment bags.
• Place boots and waders where air can circulate, and consider using boot trees or stuffing them with newspaper.
• Keep all electronics, calls, and valuables in dedicated compartments, clearly labeled for next season.

Seasonal Gear Inventory

After you’ve cleaned and stored your equipment, take a complete inventory. List damaged, missing, or worn items, and make a plan to replace or upgrade them in the off season. This proactive approach ensures you’re always ready when waterfowl season opens again and helps you avoid last-minute, rushed purchases.

best practices & common mistakes to avoid

Avoiding Harsh Chemicals

Never use soaps with UV brighteners or harsh chemicals, as these can ruin camouflage and damage technical fabrics. Opt for cleaners made for sportswear and outdoor gear to keep your hunting clothes performing at their peak.

Don't Skip After-Hunt Care

Delaying care—even for one muddy hunt—can result in permanent stains, foul odors, mold, and rusted firearms. Cleaning your equipment after every outing is the single most effective way of maintaining hunting gear for the long term. Don’t let moisture sit overnight on metal parts or let muddy gear fester in your blind bag.

Proper Blind and Decoy Storage

When storing blinds and large decoy setups, avoid folding them in ways that might crease camouflage material or break down their structure. Hang blinds when possible, or store them flat, making sure all components are clean and dry before packing away.

quick gear maintenance checklist

• Rinse, clean, and dry all decoys, calls, and accessories after every hunting trip.
• Disassemble and clean firearms and shotguns; lubricate with light oil and inspect for excess oil.
• Rinse, air dry, and thoroughly inspect waders and boots; patch and repair minor issues.
• Inventory and organize gear for the off season, noting items to replace before next season.
• Store firearms with silica gel packs or dehumidifiers, and keep all other hunting gear in ventilated, dry locations.
• Check all gear—decoy lines, hunting knives, gloves, and small hardware—for safety and functionality before storing.

lasting performance starts with consistent maintenance

Taking the time for proper care of your waterfowl hunting gear isn’t just about protecting your investment—it’s about guaranteeing your performance, comfort, and safety every time you step into the field. By developing a post-hunt cleaning routine, inspecting for damage, storing gear properly during the off season, and avoiding common mistakes, you ensure your equipment is always ready for your next hunt. Well-maintained gear lasts longer, works better, and helps you make the most of every waterfowl season—so you can focus on the adventure, not your equipment.

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