Chesapeake Bay Sea duck hunting with Nanticoke Outfitters is a true big-water waterfowl experience conducted on the Chesapeake Bay during Maryland’s second and third splits. These hunts are weather-driven, fast-paced, and unforgettable—targeting some of the toughest and most sought-after ducks in North America.
All sea duck hunts are run by one of our licensed USCG Captains, ensuring safety, professionalism, and compliance while operating in open-water conditions. Whether you’re checking off species for a trophy wall or chasing your 41 Duck Challenge, our program is built around adaptability and experience.
Season Timing: 2nd & 3rd Split
Our sea duck hunts take place during two prime windows:
- Second Split: Approximately two weeks in November (Ends the Friday after Thanksgiving)
- Third Split: Mid-December through the end of January (roughly Dec 15 – Jan 31)
These splits coincide with peak sea duck presence on the Chesapeake Bay and offer the best opportunity to encounter multiple species in a single hunt.
Chesapeake Bay Sea Duck Hunting Species We Target
Our Chesapeake Bay sea duck hunting focuses on classic Atlantic sea duck species, including:
- Surf Scoter
- Common Scoter
- White-winged Scoter
- Long-tailed Duck (Old Squaw)
Bag limits are regulated and strictly followed. Hunters are permitted to harvest:
- Up to 4 sea ducks total
- No more than 3 of any one species
Your guide will review current regulations and species identification before the hunt.
Chesapeake Bay Sea Duck Hunting ; How We Hunt Sea Ducks
Sea duck hunts are conducted on the Chesapeake Bay, where bird movement, wind, and sea conditions dictate our setup and strategy. (CLICK LINK TO LEARN MORE)
Common Hunting Methods:
- Boat-based sea duck hunts (primary method)
- Layout boat hunts available upon request
Using our layout boat is always an option for hunters looking for a more up-close, in-your-face shooting experience. These hunts place you directly in the flight path and offer some of the most exciting waterfowl shooting available on the Bay when conditions allow.
Shot Size & Gear Recommendations
Sea ducks are notoriously tough birds, requiring proper gear and shot selection for ethical harvests.
Recommended Setup:
- Shot size: BB or #2
- Federal SpeedShok Sea Duck 12 Gauge 3″ 1-1/4oz 4/6 Shot is a great option if you can find it! CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO!
- Non-toxic shot as required
- Waterproof outer layers suitable for open-water conditions
Sea ducks are difficult to kill cleanly due to dense feathers and heavy bone structure. Using heavier shot improves lethality and reduces the risk of cripples in open water.
Trophy & Specialty Requests
When booking your sea duck hunt, please let us know in advance if:
- You are targeting a specific species for a trophy wall mount
- You are hunting sea ducks as part of your 41 Duck Challenge
Advance notice allows us to plan scouting and setups with your goals in mind whenever conditions allow.
What Sets Our Sea Duck Hunts Apart
- Chesapeake Bay–based program with proven access
- Operated by licensed USCG Captains
- Layout boat option available
- Strict adherence to bag limits and regulations
- Experience targeting multiple sea duck species
- Safety-first approach in all conditions
These are serious hunts, run the right way, by guides who understand big water and big birds.
Ready to go Chesapeake Bay Sea Duck Hunting?
If you’re looking for a guided sea duck hunt in Maryland that offers real Chesapeake Bay experience, multiple species opportunities, and professional captains, Nanticoke Outfitters delivers.
From scoters to long-tails, these hunts are as challenging and rewarding as waterfowling gets.
Contact us today to reserve your sea duck hunt or request a layout boat option.