A widgeon coat is a type of waterproof coat that is designed for hunting wildfowl like widgeons. Widgeon coats have a long history and tradition among wildfowl hunters. In this article, we will explore the history, purpose, and defining characteristics of widgeon coats.
What are widgeons?
Widgeons are a species of duck found throughout the Northern Hemisphere. There are three main species of widgeon:
- Eurasian Wigeon (Mareca penelope)
- American Wigeon (Mareca americana)
- ChiloƩ Wigeon (Mareca sibilatrix)
Widgeons are medium-sized ducks with slate-gray bodies, white bellies, and iridescent green and purple speculums on their wings. The males have bold white foreheads and crowns that stand out in flight. Widgeons dabble and graze in shallow marshes and wetlands, where they feed on aquatic plants and grasses. They are swift fliers and make erratic changes of direction when fleeing predators.
Widgeons are a popular game bird in North America and Europe. Hunters pursue them for their meat and feathers. Their wariness makes them a challenging target for hunters.
Purpose of a widgeon coat
A widgeon coat is specifically designed for hunting widgeons and other wildfowl. Here are the main purposes of a widgeon coat:
- Camouflage – Widgeon coats are made in muted dark tones like brown, green, or tan to help hunters blend into wetland environments.
- Waterproofing – They are coated in wax or oiled canvas to repel water. This keeps the hunter dry while lying in wait in marshes.
- Warmth – The coats are padded with down orother insulating materials to retain body heat in cold temperatures.
- Pockets – Special pockets and loops are provided to carry hunting gear like calls, shells, and decoys.
- Freedom of Movement – Widgeon coats are cut loose to allow for free movement ofthe arms and shoulders while swinging and aiming shotguns.
In summary, the widgeon coat allows a hunter to conceal themselves, withstand wet conditions, keep warm, and have convenient access to gear needed for widgeon hunting.
History of the widgeon coat
The origins of the widgeon coat trace back centuries to European market hunters who pursued wildfowl for meat and feathers. In England, wealthy gentlemen hunters adopted specialized hunting attire for waterfowling expeditions. This included oilskin frock coats and hats. Later innovations like rubberized cotton, waxed canvas, and lighter water-repellent coatings improved the water resistance and comfort of early widgeon coats.
In North America, market hunters in the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic flyway regions modified capes and coats for concealment and weather protection while hunting ducks and geese from layout boats and blinds during the late 1800s. Companies like J.C. Earl Manufacturing Company in Dunnville, Ontario began making sporting garments for wildfowling as early as 1857.
After the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 restricted overhunting of waterfowl, recreational hunters kept the tradition of widgeon coats alive. Brands like Barbour in England and Filson in Seattle carried on making specialized oilskin coats for wildfowl hunters into the modern day.
Styles of widgeon coats
There are a few distinct styles of widgeon coats that have emerged over time:
- Frock coat – A long coat extending below the hip, styled like a suit coat. Frock coats provide ample coverage.
- Barn coat – A shorter coat ending at the upper thigh. Barn coats allow more leg movement.
- Motorcoat – A duster-style coat that falls below the knee. Motorcoats shed precipitation during boat rides.
- Seaside coat – A three-quarter length coat tailored to end around the mid-thigh.
Modern widgeon coats typically have front buttons or zippers for putting on and taking off. Some have oversized cargo pockets while others have simple slit pockets. Collars are usually large and stand-up for repelling water from the neck. Coat fabrics include waxed cotton, oiled canvas, tightly-woven polyester/cotton blends, wool blends, and microfiber polyesters coated in durable water repellents (DWR).
Key features of widgeon coats
Here are some of the typical features that characterize a widgeon coat:
- Water repellency – The coat retains water resistance through waxes, oils, or durable water repellent (DWR) coatings.
- Wind resistance – Tightly woven, heavy fabric prevents wind penetration.
- Insulation – Down, synthetic fills, or heavy cotton provides warmth.
- Camouflage – Muted dark tones like brown, green, tan or camo prints help hide the wearer.
- Roomy fit – A loose fit allows wearing layers underneath and free arm movement.
- Large protective collar – Stands up to guard the neck and prevent water entry.
- Front opening – Buttons, zippers, or snaps allow easy putting on/taking off.
- Spacious cargo pockets – Hold calls, ammunition, gloves, and other gear.
- Adjustable cuffs – Tighten cuffs over gloves to keep water out.
- Drawcord waist – Cinches in waist for a secure fit.
High-end widgeon coats may also incorporate features like shoulder pleats for range of motion, reinforced elbows, and custom tailoring for a personalized fit.
Popular brands of widgeon coats
Many companies have specialized in producing widgeon coats. Here are some of the top brands today:
Brand | Country | Notable Models |
---|---|---|
Filson | USA | Shelter Cloth Wading Jacket, Mackinaw Wool Cruiser |
Barbour | England | Solway Zipper Jacket, Extol Wading Jacket |
Orvis | USA | Ultralight Wader Jacket, Jersey-Lined Hunting Coat |
Simms | USA | Guide Coat, Freestone Wading Jacket |
Sitka Gear | USA | Chugach Jacket, Hudson Jacket |
Beretta | Italy | Hunting Down Jacket, Memory Marsh Wading Jacket |
Cabela’s | USA | Dry Plus Silent Weave Parka, Guidewear Light Hunting Blazer |
Browning | USA | Waders Aquatech Coat, High Five Insulated Jacket |
These companies use cutting-edge fabrics and coatings to produce high-performance widgeon coats for avid waterfowl hunters.
Cost of widgeon coats
The price of a widgeon coat can vary considerably based on materials, quality, and brand reputation. Here is an overview of typical price ranges:
- Budget: $100 – $200
- Basic oiled cotton or polyester shell
- Minimal waterproofing
- Affordable brands like Gamehide or Walls
- Moderate: $200 – $500
- Major sporting brands like Browning or Beretta
- Coated synthetic shell or wool blend exterior
- Water-resistant and insulating
- Premium: $500 – $1,000+
- Top brands like Filson, Barbour, and Orvis
- High-performance technical fabrics
- Custom sizing and tailoring options
- Lifetime guarantee
The highest-end widgeon coats from designers like Kevin’s or Pure Fishing can cost over $1,000. But top-quality coats are seen as a wise investment due to their durability and longevity over many seasons of use.
How to care for a widgeon coat
Widgeon coats require some special care and maintenance to preserve their water resistance and extend their lifespan. Here are some tips for caring for a widgeon coat:
- Avoid washing the coat as much as possible, and use wax/oil treatments instead to rejuvenate water repellency.
- Use a stiff brush to remove dried mud or dirt. Spot clean stains with a damp sponge and mild detergent.
- If washing is necessary, use a gentle cool water cycle and non-detergent soap. Reshape and air dry fully.
- Apply wax-based waterproofing products a few times per year. Rub the wax thoroughly into the fabric.
- Store the coat cleaned and fully dried in a cool, dark place. Avoid direct sunlight which can degrade the fabrics.
- Repair rips, tears or holes promptly through patching or professional resealing of seams.
- Take to a specialty cleaner or brand retailer periodically for servicing and renewal of protective coatings.
With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality widgeon coat should remain waterproof and durable for decades of rugged outdoor use.
Conclusion
For wildfowl hunters pursuing ducks and geese in marshes, a widgeon coat is essential protective gear. The water-repellent, insulating coats provide concealment and weather resistance when hunting from blinds and boats. Widgeon coats have a venerable history originating with European market hunters centuries ago. They remain a critical item for serious waterfowlers today. With high-performance modern fabrics, widgeon coats allow hunters to stalk wary birds in comfort and safety across wetlands worldwide.