How to Choose the Best Dog Stand for Duck Hunting
As you are preparing to hunt, you are probably considering all of the different items you will need to pull off a successful hunt. As the dog guy/gal, you will want to make sure that your dog is set up for success and can hunt comfortably in whatever situation you plan to hunt.
Dog stands & Blinds
There are many options for you to choose from when it comes to dog stands and blinds. Depending on where and how you plan to hunt, one blind may work better for your dog than the other.
Timber Hunts
You will probably want a completely open stand in the timber so that your dog has maximum visibility. Here are a few great stands for you to consider. (Links go to the manufacturer's website for more info. I recommend shopping around to find the best deal.)
Of course, there are more to choose from, but this is a good starting point for your search. It all boils down to what you feel is going to suit your needs best.
The MOMARSH Ramp Stand will give you some flexibility because you can use it on the boat and the timber. You can strap it to a tree to be ready for the hunt. As far as the Banded Gear Dog Stand and the MOMARSH Final Stand go, they are both good options.
Although they don't strap to a tree as the Ramp Stand does, they will certainly work in the timber. One superb feature of the MOMARSH Final Stand is its independently adjustable legs. Each leg provides perfect reinforcements so your dog can remain comfortable without having to worry about a wobbly stand.
I've used both, and they both get the job done. I'm partial to the MOMARSH Stand, but that doesn't mean that the Banded stand won't work well for you.
Field Hunts
On a field hunt, it's generally best to keep your dog in an enclosed dog blind. An enclosed blind has many benefits for your dog.
Here are a few excellent enclosed blinds. (Links go to the manufacturer's website for more info. I recommend shopping around to find the best deal.)
This is a good list to get you started on your search for the best dog blind for hunting. When you're hunting fields, there are a few things to consider so that you can find the blind that suits you and your dog's needs best.
Of the options that I mentioned, the MOmarsh dog stand is going to be best suited for hunting situations in standing water or on a field hunt when keeping a low profile isn't a concern. The MOmarsh Invisi-lab features a highly durable construction that enables it to have a secure hold in many different environments.
The Invisi-lab has the best leg system for easy setup and tear down making it not only durable but convenient as well. When I say durable, I mean it. I've been hunting with mine for years, and it is still going strong.
If you plan to hunt in layout blinds or want to keep an extra low profile, the Rig 'Em Right dog blind or the Tanglefree dog blind would work best. I am partial to the Rig'Em Right dog blind for these scenarios, but the Tanglefree blind would probably treat you well.
Which one is right for you?
As you can see there are many options to choose from. Finding the right blind for you is ultimately going to depend on your specific hunting scenarios. If you hunt in multiple different places, odds are that you will need to purchase more than one stand or blind.
Something to consider:
The dog guy/gal, if they've done a good job training their dog, often gets more invites to hunt. Being the dog guy/gal is no guarantee to get more invites, but it can happen. With keeping that in mind, you certainly will want to be prepared for any situation that arises, especially if you've done a great job training your dog!
You can always start with the blind or stand you think you would use the most and then add to your collection from there.
My picks:
My top two choices for blinds are the MOmarsh Invisi-lab and the Rig'em Right Field Bully Blind. My top choice for a stand is the MOmarsh Final Stand.
Member picks:
In addition to my thoughts, take a look at what our CGA Members think. We did a poll in our member's group and we also asked them to explain their choice. Here's what some of the members had to say.
- Andrew said, "I love the flexibility of the Invisi-Lab in that it can be used in fields and in water. It's lightweight, well designed, and easy to brush in."
- Brooke said, "Invisi-Lab because I use it as a training stand and a dog blind. Not to mention it has held up 2 seasons in the saltwater which is impressive."
- Adam said, "My vote is dependent on my application as well as the products quality/function and ease of use. Stands/blinds I have and use are as followed: Momarsh Invisi-Lab, Momarsh Final Stand, Momarsh Field House LP, Rig Em Right Field Bully
In a flooded scenario with good cover or timber, I just use my final stand. If the cover is sparse or hunting pressured birds I use my Invisi-Lab.
For field hunting, I like the MOmarsh Field House LP. I like that I can fold the legs down without sacrificing the comfort of the dog, or if I’m hunting a field with sheet water I can get my dog up off the ground and out of the water. Currently no snow cover available for us northern boys, but I’m told it’s in the works.
If I’m tight on space or walking out, I bring along the Field Bully dog blind. The compact design makes it easy to carry afield."
Those are some things to consider when searching for a great dog stand or blind. Take your time, shop around, and then when you're ready, purchase the stand that suits you best!
BuildFromHere,
Joshua Parvin
P.S. If you want to train your retriever but aren't sure where to start, what to do next, and what to do when problems, then you are in the right place. Find the right course for you here.
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