Jet Skis and Duck Boats

At first glance the answer would probably be "no". However, in my experience the commonality would be the excitement of both sports. They're as varied as cruising the lake at 5kph on your pontoon, drinking coffee or a martini -- depending on the time of day -- and sailing a swift catamaran, splitting through the waves at 40kph.

The excitement of duck hunting boats isn't necessarily in the boat itself, but in the entire experience of hunting the fowl. Hunters are on their craft before the sky has its thin line of morning pink, waiting for the duck and geese to glide onto the lake during their migration from Canada in the Fall.

Duck hunting is often in the tradition of a family, as it was in mine. But boats do need to be replaced, and the sport may appeal to newcomers to the "hunt". Incidentally, in the UK, it's only called "hunting" if you're using hounds. If you're not, you're "shooting" duck.

In any event, if you're looking for a duck hunting boat, here's some sites to visit: Duck Waterfowl Boats makes the claim that they're the first choice for duck hunting boats. They say their boats are so covert "the ducks don't even see them." Also "We punish the ice and the rocks."

Mallard Marine manufactures and sells high quality ducking hunting boats, specializing in layout duck boats. And there's even an inflatable duck hunting boat made by SeaEagle.

The excitement of this sport is a different kind than that of the jet skier. The hunter's anticipation is his joy, along with the satisfaction of filling his bag and bringing meat to his family. The jet skier's joy is the speed he attains on his jet ski, along with the tricks he learns to perform expertly.

Jet skiing is an expensive hobby. If you're traveling and planning to rent one when you get to your destination, make your reservations well in advance, particularly during high season. If you're scoping an area out and want to know your best options, speak to local marinas and jet ski retailers to find options.

Plan your day in advance. Many rental locations charge by the hour, not a flat-rate. Ask if a lesson is included in the rental price. First-time jet skiers may want to take longer lessons so that they understand safety precautions and local regulations. Be sure and bring your credit card in order to leave a security deposit, always required. Almost jet ski rental locations are required to provide the proper life jackets and equipment for free, though there might be an extra charge for wet suit.

In any event, whatever is your passion, enjoy it and stay safe.