Ed,
Like you, I have found that 3 goose decoys, and 7-8 big duck decoys do the trick. So we are very alike in that way.
Teal decoys work just fine, and I can stow them anywhere. It's almost like they don't count. Except when picking up...
I put some of the duck decoys in individual bags (I dislike repainting my decoys). They get stowed forward, and under the deck. Goose decoys on top.
I use baskets, or plastic tubs to keep the decoys in, when in the vehicle, and to carry back and forth to the boat
Dragging a full boat, with no snow, or water is a major PITA. But ya gotta go where the birds tell ya to, and it is seldom without busting yer hump. All part of the deal.
Yup keeping the gun barrel well forward, and above the combing is a good idea. In the photo the gunning box & "shootgun" (unloaded) is back further than usual.
I use a lightweight, camo, waterproof gun sleeve, with shoulder strap to transport the gun to and from the boat, and at other none use times. Really does a good job of keeping mud and water where it need not be in the gun.
The only time the gun is loaded in the cradle, is when getting cripples, or jump/sneak shooting.
A slow moving marsh boat is one helluva a stealth sneak boat. The birds are stone dead, and no BB's in the breast. Like the old market hunters.
I envy the fact that you have had many duck boats. Different experiences really add to a hunters life, and well being. Having a understanding wife, a major plus.
It took all the $$$$, I saved up to get the two duckboats I had/have. They both fit my needs very well, so I did OK. Here is a photo of my long gone old sneakbox, a real duck hunting machine that I dearly miss.
Even before I retired, most jobs my days off were during the week. With no Sunday hunting in PA, Monday was a must hunt day, as was Weds. Afternoon turn and midnight turn, hunted when I could. Now when I look back on it, I must have been nutz, but boy did I have big fun!
Retirement hunting is sweet.
Only draw back is.
If ya don't have a really good gunning partner to prod ya, some days ya gotta kick start yourself to go, cuz of no pressure.
One of my best gunning partners lived in Lancaster Co. He owned Trop Gun Shop before he died. Also my inlaws used to work at Sight And Sound for years. Time was there was very good pheasant hunting down that way, and mighty good duckin' on The River. Now it is rat race central IMO
I look forward to your posts about your new boat, as you live in a grand waterfowl area. It's been a pleasure bantering with you.
Best regards
Vince
View attachment Sneakbox.jpg
] I made a wooden blunt point for the end of the push pole. Many times I jammed it to deep into the muck. Pulling it up was a job, and many curse words were said. All part of the fun...