Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call Review

Ready to Know the Truth About the Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call?

For years, I’ve relied on a diverse range of equipment to get the job done, whether I’m out in the elements, deep in a workshop, or meticulously setting up a lab. When the need arose for a duck call that could specifically mimic the feeding sounds of mallards, particularly when they’re after rice, the Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call caught my eye. This isn’t just another plastic noisemaker; it’s designed with a specific purpose in mind, aiming for that elusive “Cajun Squeal” sound. My initial impression of this call, straight out of the packaging, was one of straightforward, functional design. It feels solid enough, with a plastic construction that’s typical for calls in this price range. I’d been using a more generic double-reed call that, while functional, lacked the nuanced feeding chatter I was after. This Haydels model seemed to promise a more authentic sound profile without a hefty price tag. My immediate reaction was one of focused anticipation – would it deliver on its promise of that distinct dirty rice feeding sound?

Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call to the Test

First Use Experience

I took this particular duck call out to a local marsh known for its abundance of mallards, especially during the rice-growing season. The conditions were crisp, with a light breeze, typical of early autumn waterfowl hunting. My primary goal was to replicate the sounds mallards make when actively feeding in shallow, rice-filled waters. The call’s design suggested an easy learning curve for its specific sound, and thankfully, it proved to be quite intuitive. Within a few minutes of practicing, I was able to produce the raspy, clucking sounds that mimic feeding mallards. I didn’t encounter any immediate issues; the call felt comfortable in hand and responded well to my breath.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several hunting trips, the Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it repeatedly throughout a full morning’s hunt, in light mist, and even after it took an accidental tumble onto some muddy ground. The plastic barrel has shown minimal scuffing, and crucially, the reeds have maintained their integrity. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse with water and a gentle wipe are usually all that’s needed. Compared to some other calls I’ve used in the past that developed a stiffness in the reeds after a few uses, this model has remained consistent. It’s a reliable performer that doesn’t require constant fiddling or adjustment, which is invaluable when you’re out in the field.

Breaking Down the Features of Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call

Specifications

The Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call is constructed from durable plastic, a material choice that contributes to its accessible price point and resilience. This double-reeded call is specifically tuned to produce the “Cajun Squeal” sound, a characteristic vocalization of mallards engaged in feeding, particularly when they are in rice fields. The barrels have been engineered to make achieving this specific squealing sound easier for the caller. As a special bonus, the package includes Tony’s Creole Seasoning, a fun nod to the “dirty rice” theme, though this is clearly a novelty and not part of the call’s functional specifications.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this call is to replicate the feeding sounds of mallards, and it excels at this. The double-reed design, combined with the specialized barrel shaping, allows for the production of those distinct, high-pitched squeals and clucks that mallards make when digging for food. This is a significant strength, as it offers a more targeted sound than a general-purpose mallard call. Its ability to easily produce the “Cajun Squeal” is its standout feature. A minor point of contention, if one were to nitpick, might be that achieving extremely soft, subtle feeding chirps requires a bit more breath control than some other designs. However, for its intended purpose of producing that aggressive feeding sound, it performs admirably.

Design & Ergonomics

The Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call sports a simple, functional design. Its plastic barrel is lightweight and fits comfortably in the hand, making it easy to manipulate for extended periods without fatigue. The finish is smooth, which aids in grip, especially when hands might be damp from weather or exertion. There are no overly complex mechanisms or awkward angles to contend with, ensuring that the focus remains on producing sound. The overall feel is one of practicality; it’s a tool built for the field, not for display.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction, this mallard call is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The plastic material is resistant to cracking from moderate impacts, and the reeds are robust enough for consistent use. I haven’t encountered any significant wear and tear after multiple outings. Cleaning is as simple as rinsing it out with water and letting it air dry; it doesn’t require any special lubricants or complicated disassembly. Potential failure points in any double-reed call typically involve reed wear or misalignment, but this model has shown no signs of that thus far.

Accessories and Customization Options

The most notable accessory included with the Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call is the small packet of Tony’s Creole Seasoning, a playful addition that ties into the product’s theme. Beyond this, there are no other included accessories, nor are there significant customization options for the call itself. It comes as a ready-to-use unit designed for its specific purpose. While you can’t swap reeds or barrels, the simplicity of the design means there’s less to go wrong.

Pros and Cons of Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call

Who Should Buy Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call?

This mallard call is an excellent choice for any waterfowl hunter who specifically targets mallards in areas where they feed on rice or similar grains. It is particularly well-suited for those looking to master the art of the “Cajun Squeal” feeding call, which can be highly effective in drawing in wary birds. Beginners in waterfowl hunting will find it easier to produce realistic feeding sounds with this call, making it a great starting point. However, experienced callers who need a wide spectrum of mallard vocalizations might find it a bit specialized. Someone looking for a highly versatile call that can mimic quacks, comeback calls, and feeding chatter all from one unit might need to look elsewhere. If you’re hunting over rice fields, this call is almost a must-have.

Conclusion on Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call

The Haydels Duck Dirty Rice Mallard Call delivers precisely what it promises: the authentic sound of mallards feeding on rice. For its price point of $33.99, the performance and ease of use are more than justified. It’s a well-designed, durable tool that caters to a specific, highly effective hunting scenario. While it might not be the only call you’ll ever need for mallards, it excels in its niche, making it a valuable addition to any serious waterfowl hunter’s arsenal, especially those targeting this common feeding behavior. I would absolutely recommend this call to anyone focusing on mallards in rice country.