Ducks Unlimited Podcast

With growing band recoveries and a newly implemented Breeding Population and Habitat Survey, waterfowl managers in the 1950s sought a more science-based understanding of population dynamics and harvest regulations. The 1960s brought plummeting waterfowl populations, reductions in harvest limits, declining hunter numbers, and shifts in waterfowl distribution. On this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher discusses these important changes and concerning times with Dale Humburg and Ken Babcock. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Spring is one of the most critical — and overlooked — periods for creating great duck hunting in the fall. In this episode, host Matt Harrison is joined by experienced land manager Guy Halbert to break down what spring land management really looks like and why the work done now sets the table for the entire waterfowl season.From one of the driest springs in recent memory to drawing down moist‑soil units, improving timber stands, controlling invasive vegetation, and planning for planting season, Guy shares real‑world experience, practical advice, and hard‑earned lessons from managing duck habitat year‑round.In this episode:Why spring is the foundation of successful duck seasonManaging through an unusually dry springTimber stand improvement: thinning, girdling & releasing oaksWhy sunlight and diversity matter in duck woodsHow to read vegetation & decide when to plant vs. let it grow naturallyThe value of keeping management notes & logs year‑to‑yearCrop rotation concepts for duck foodMoist‑soil management vs. planted crops like corn & milletWater control: the single most important management factorAdvice for first‑time landowners and new duck managersCommon mistakes & why slowing down saves money and habitatIf you’ve ever said “duck season will take care of itself,” this episode explains why spring is when the real work — and success — begins.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Learn how women are taking safety, confidence, and responsibility into their own hands—both in the field and everyday life.Professional shotgun shooter and DU Ascend host Julia Stallings sits down with Audrey Wikan, Drake Waterfowl spokeswoman and former gun‑industry marketer, to discuss what women need to know about concealed carry, field carry, legal realities, holsters, draw practice, and staying equipped on hunts.Audrey shares her early experiences working behind a gun‑store counter at age 19, why women beelined to her with questions, what she carries now, and how she mentors new shooters. Together, they unpack the realities of traveling with firearms, carrying while hunting or fishing, choosing the right gun, staying legal across state lines, and building confidence through training and mentorship.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why more women are choosing to carry in the outdoorsTraining, mentorship, and how to find the right firearmHolsters, appendix vs. backpack carry, and drawing safelyWhat to know about carrying while hunting, fishing, or hikingTraveling with firearms: TSA tips, ammo rules, and packing hacksUnderstanding caliber choices, recoil, and comfort for smaller handsWhy confidence and comfort determine whether you’ll actually carrySubscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world.Join the Ascend Instagram community at @duascend and http://www.ducks.org/ascend.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

World War II brought global upheaval in the 1940s and caused a redirection of national priorities and placed a temporary pause on regulatory and conservation momentum of the 1930s. After the war, returning veterans became the pioneers in waterfowl management and led to a new era of scientific discovery, regulatory creativity, and a growing need for state and federal coordination via Flyways. The DU Podcast continues its discussion with Ken Babcock and Dale Humburg.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Ducks are heading north, and we’re getting the first hints of what breeding habitat may look like this spring.DU's senior waterfowl scientist, Dr. Mike Brasher, sits down with Dr. Scott Stephens, DU's senior director of conservation strategy, for a timely update on prairie conditions, recent snowfall, runoff potential, and what these early signs may mean for breeding ducks in 2026. They also break down the migration chronology of different duck species — who arrives first, who lingers longest, and why evolutionary history shapes these patterns.In this episode:A flyover view of recent prairie snowfall and soil moistureWhere runoff potential looks promising — and where it doesn’tHow dry wetland basins from last fall influence spring habitat recoveryWhy “some water” doesn’t equal “full recovery”The importance of seasonal vs. semi‑permanent wetlands for brood successHow multiple years of improved conditions are needed for strong fall flightsMigration timing: early (mallards, pintails), mid (shovelers, teal, divers), and late (gadwall, scaup)Why ducks “follow the ice line” and how late storms disrupt timingBoreal nesters vs. prairie nesters — who waits for the thawCanada geese and snow geese movement patterns during March–AprilLong‑term conservation reminders: habitat base matters more than any one wet yearJoin us for a concise, informative episode for anyone tracking habitat conditions and dreaming about next fall’s duck season.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Spring turkey season has arrived — and while the weather has been unpredictable and the gobblers uncooperative at times, that won’t stop host Matt Harrison, his brother Michael Harrison, and friend Trent Camden from diving into the opening‑week action.The trio breaks down their hunts from the first few days of Mississippi’s season, including successful youth hunts, tough cold mornings, henned-up gobblers, green woods that feel “ahead of schedule,” and the wild behavior that makes turkey season so addictive. Along the way, they share lessons learned, personal stories, and real‑world tips for hunters at all experience levels.In this episode:Opening‑week reports: gobbling activity, flock dynamics & weather impactsWhy birds seem “ahead of schedule” this yearCalling strategies when gobblers aren’t vocalDealing with henned‑up toms & broken‑up flocksPatience, timing, and understanding mid‑morning movementHow weather (cold, sun, wind) changes where birds want to bePatterning early-season gobblers vs. late-season behaviorChase stories, close calls & first‑time turkey successesPopulations: jakes, hens, and hatch observations across MS & LALessons from the hunt: adapting, looping ahead, staying patientWhether you’re new to turkey hunting or a seasoned spring addict, this episode is packed with the relatable highs, lows, and “what just happened?” moments that make chasing longbeards so special.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Into the 1920s, the Federal government endured growing pains in its new-found regulatory responsibilities for waterfowl harvest. Then, the 1930s brought a Dust Bowl, Great Depression, and catalysts for conservation, eventually producing the Duck Stamp Act, National Wildlife Refuge expansions, Pittman-Robertson Act, and organizations such as DU. Dr. Mike Brasher resumes his discussion with Ken Babcock and Dale Humburg about the history of waterfowl harvest management. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Spring is one of the most important—and most overlooked—periods in the waterfowl annual cycle. In this episode, host Dr. Mike Brasher sits down with the creators of Waterfowl Management Academy to discuss how private landowners can dramatically improve duck habitat by making simple adjustments in late winter and spring.Guests Kale Flaspohler, Mike Flaspohler, and Dan Crigler bring more than 70 years of combined experience in wetland management, public land habitat work, and private land technical guidance. Their new online platform—WaterfowlManagement.com—is designed to bring that expertise directly to landowners and managers who want to improve their wetlands.In this episode:What Waterfowl Management Academy is and why they built itWhy spring habitat is critical for ducks, from migration to nestingMoist-soil management fundamentals and how timing influences resultsProtein, invertebrates, and the nutritional demands of breeding birdsWhy pulling boards right after season misses the most important windowHow private land (75–80% of remaining wetlands) can change population outcomesRegional considerations: Midwest vs. Gulf Coast vs. flyway-wide applicationsHow simple changes like holding water longer can support shorebirds & waterbirdsMentorship, trial‑and‑error, and the value of lifelong learning in habitat workWhat’s next for WMA and how landowners can get hands‑on guidanceWhether you’re a wetland manager, private landowner, or someone wanting to “give back” to ducks after hunting season, this episode can change how you think about habitat.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

The Chesapeake Bay is home to some of the richest decoy and waterfowling traditions in North America — and today’s guest, Chad Tragakis, is one of its most passionate historians.Chad is a longtime decoy collector, writer, editor for Decoy Magazine, and a respected storyteller of the makers, clubs, boats, and communities that built the decoy culture along the Atlantic Flyway. Host Katie Burke sits down with Chad for a wide-ranging conversation that explores the origins of collecting, the legacy of iconic craftsmen, and the unique waterman traditions that still shape the region today.In this episode:How a $20 scoter decoy started Chad’s lifelong passionThe foundational books every new collector should readChesapeake Bay as the “decoy capital of the world”Sink boxes, sporting yachts, and the golden era of upper-bay gunningWhy the region produced tens of thousands of working decoysHaver de Grace vs. Northeast River styles — what sets them apartHow form, tradition, and community shape regional carvingCharlie Joiner’s legacy & what he learned from Mitchell and the Ward BrothersThe culture of shop visits, mentorship, and generational knowledgeAdvice for beginning collectors & why building a library mattersThe importance of preserving working decoys as American folk artThis episode is a celebration of craftsmanship, history, and the people who keep America’s decoy tradition alive.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Following legal challenges to early attempts at Federal protection of migratory birds, policy makers and conservation leaders sought alternative avenues for establishing Federal jurisdiction. Dale Humburg and Ken Babcock rejoin Dr. Mike Brasher to discuss the Migratory Bird Treaty Act becoming law in 1918, its role in a landmark Supreme Court case, and its emergence as the foundation for regulated waterfowl harvest and migratory bird management.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

West Texas guide, podcaster, storyteller, and full‑time chaos manager — Andy Shaver — joins the DU Podcast.Hosts Jimbo Robinson and Matt Harrison sit down with Andy for a fast‑moving, hilarious, and insightful conversation about guiding specklebelly hunts, running the wildly successful Big Honker Podcast, building an outfitting operation, and navigating life at Stanfield Outfitters.From dove season to specks, jiu‑jitsu to podcast growth, and from flatbed‑trailer disasters to rookie‑guide bloopers, Andy brings the candid honesty and humor that Big Honker listeners love.In this episode:How Andy became a full‑time guide at Stanfield OutfittersThe origin story of The Big Honker Podcast and how it evolvedWhy geese > ducks (according to Andy)Running 90+ days of hunts and keeping clients happyThe rise of specklebelly hunting in West TexasWhat guides look for when hiring new staff“Post and ghost” — how Andy handles online commentsJiu‑jitsu, cauliflower ear, and letting his wife drain itBest guide stories & funniest client momentsWhat show season looks like for outfitters todayWhy Oklahoma became “the rat race”Life after season: Mexico, turkey season, baseball coaching & podcast grindIf you like hunting stories, honesty, and behind‑the‑scenes truth from a veteran guide, this episode delivers.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

This is one of the biggest Ducks Unlimited Podcast episodes we’ve ever recorded — and for good reason. Host Matt Harrison brings together the full cast and production team behind DUTV, including:Jim RonquestDoug LarsonFred ZinkRusty McDanielsPreston McDanielsJoe WhiteTogether they unpack the entire 2025–26 DUTV filming season — the highs, the lows, the logistics, the weather challenges, the production hurdles, and the incredible people and places that made the show possible.In this episode:What it’s really like filming duck hunts across North AmericaThe messy reality of camera angles, wind shifts, sun glare & “lens flash”Why pressure, weather, and older birds made this year unpredictableTelemetry research & how ducks are adapting faster than we thinkThe role of DU volunteers, biologists, landowners & partners in every episodeThe huge workload of producers and post-production teamsFavorite hunts of the year — from mallards in Nebraska to brant in New JerseyHow DUTV chooses hunt locations and builds conservation storylinesThe game‑changing importance of drones, new cameras, and modern techIf you love DUTV, waterfowl storytelling, or want to understand how outdoor TV is really made…this episode is an absolute must‑listen.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

At the turn of the 19th Century, market hunting and unregulated harvest was taking a toll on waterfowl and other migratory birds. Growing concern produced the first attempts at federal regulation of migratory birds. In part 1 of the DU Podcast’s series on the history of waterfowl harvest management, Dale Humburg, former DU chief scientist, and Ken Babcock, former DU senior director of regional operations, discuss these early days and the resistance to federal intervention.

He’s a former NFL quarterback, a lifelong outdoorsman, a junior world duck‑calling champion, a YouTube creator, and now the founder of a new lifestyle brand. Today’s guest is the one and only Devlin “Duck” Hodges.Hosts Matt Harrison and Jimbo Robinson sit down with Duck for a wide‑open conversation covering everything from his days with the Pittsburgh Steelers to his passion for duck hunting, bowhunting, faith, family, and building his new brand — Club Country — which connects the hunting/outdoor lifestyle with the golf world.In this episode:How he got the nickname “Duck” (and why he hated it at first)Breaking Steve McNair’s passing record at SamfordThe wild moment he got thrown into his first NFL gameWhat it was like hunting with Peyton Manning, Luke Bryan & othersThe YouTube boom and why he wants to be a positive influence for new huntersHow Club Country was born — and why it bridges golf + outdoorsBalancing business, hunting, and planning a wedding with Lainey WilsonHis favorite hunts, biggest lessons, and where he’s headed nextIf you’re a football fan, a duck hunter, or someone who loves the outdoor lifestyle, this is one of the most fun, wide‑ranging episodes of the season.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

The history of bird conservation is full of conflict, characters, chaos — and ultimately, hope.In this special episode, host Dr. Mike Brasher sits down with journalist and author James H. McCommons, whose new book Feather Wars uncovers the dramatic, surprising, and often untold stories behind how America saved its birds from the brink of extinction.From market hunting and plume traders to poetic bird lovers, political maneuvering, and early wildlife heroes, this book chronicles the people, laws, and events that shaped modern conservation — including stories waterfowl hunters will instantly recognize.In this episode:The early days of shotgun ornithologists and egg collectorsHow plume hunting and the feather trade ignited a national movementWhy hunters played a crucial role in securing early conservation lawsThe real story behind the Lacey Act, Weeks-McLean Act, and MBTAThe wild saga of Ray Holland vs. the Missouri Attorney GeneralDing Darling, duck clubs, and the birth of the Federal Duck StampHow past conservation battles mirror today’s challengesIf you love birds, hunting history, conservation law, or simply great storytelling — this episode (and this book) are must-listens.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Phil Bourjaily, DU Magazine shotgunning columnist, joins host Chris Jennings to discuss a recent column – The Physics of Shotgunning. Bourjaily breaks down the science behind being a better shooter. He also provides an update on his duck season.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

The wildturkeyDNA project is back—and year one delivered far more surprises than expected.Recorded on location at the NWTF Convention, Dr. Mike Brasher, DU's Senior Waterfowl Scientist, is joined by:Dr. Mike Chamberlain, NWTF Distinguished Professor at the University of Georgia and Wild Turkey LabDr. Phil Lavretsky, Associate Professor and wildlife geneticist at University of Texas at El PasoKatie Tucker, DU Conservation Science AssistantTogether they break down year one results, insights from odd‑plumage birds and unexpected hybrids, and unveil expansion plans for 2026. This episode offers an inside look at one of the fastest‑growing wildlife genetics projects in North America—powered by turkey hunters.In this episode:Why some "odd plumage" birds turned out to be 100% wild.Heritage breeds, hybrids, and true genetic mutations: what showed up and why it matters.Why turkey genetics were more complicated than expected.How expanded sampling will shed light on subspecies ranges across the country.Concern about inbreeding depression and the quest for answers.How hunter participation has become the engine behind modern wildlife genetics.Big plans for 2026, including expansion into Canada and incorporation of Osceola samples.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

The Goose Camp finale brings two powerhouse DU partners to the couch.Will Taylor (Streamlight) shares new‑product highlights, SHOT Show takeaways, and why quality lighting matters when waterfowlers spend half their day in the dark. Drew McIntosh (Migra Ammunition) dives into stacked‑load design, extreme cold‑weather primer testing, and custom DU event concepts—plus a few camp laughs about waders, headlamps, and sugar‑powered shooters.You’ll hear:Streamlight’s SHOT Show releases, dual‑fuel options, and DU co‑branded headlampsWhy candela and throw matter for waterfowl setups before dawn and after last lightMigra’s stacked‑load philosophy, new hybrid turkey load, and negative‑temperature primer testingDU event‑exclusive ammo concepts and how customization supports fundraisingClassic Goose Camp moments: sleep‑in mornings, Little Caesars in the blind, and “wait—what’s that smell?” headlamp storiesListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher peruse a series of fun facts about waterfowl, including questions such as how many invertebrates a wood duck eats, which waterfowl species is the largest, which lives the longest, which is the fastest and why is it not green-winged teal. The duo also discuss observations from past research including multiple paternity, double brooding, long-distance migration, which acorns wood ducks consider the tastiest, and several others.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Goose Camp Pt. 2 brings serious heart, humor, and inspiration as Jimbo and Matt sit down with Gunner Kennels founder Addison Edmonds. From starting DU season with Jimbo in North Dakota to ending it together at Goose Camp, this episode is full of stories, reflections, and behind‑the‑brand insight. Addison shares emotional “full circle” moments — from vision‑boarding the DU logo on a kennel to launching new products with DU partners. You’ll also hear dog stories, vest launches, camp chaos, and what’s coming next for the Gunner brand.You’ll hear: • How Gunner’s DU‑exclusive kennels came to life • The North Dakota → Arkansas “start and finish” of the season • Chevy’s big blind retrieves & the joy of hunting with dogs • The story behind Gunner’s vest launch and Ben Potter’s film • New facility, new colors, upcoming collabs, and future releases • The importance of DU partnerships in Gunner’s storyListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

The DU Podcast kicks off Goose Camp with an all‑star group of partners, storytellers, and friends from the waterfowl world. Host Matt Harrison is joined by Jimbo Robinson, Brooke Richard (Higdon Outdoors), and Seth Dortch (Rough Country) to talk camp culture, late‑season realities, and how DU partnerships turn into better fundraising, better gear, and better conservation.This episode is part storytelling, part behind‑the‑scenes look at how ideas are born around a muddy Arkansas blind: raffle innovations, DU‑exclusive items, UTV/truck outfitting for waterfowlers, and why Goose Camp is where the best conversations happen.You’ll hear:Why snow geese are humbling (and addictive) — and why you still go tomorrowHow Higdon & DU collaborate on raffles, gear, and event‑friendly packagesRough Country’s crossover into the waterfowl community (UTV/truck builds DU members actually use)The power of DU events: customization, fundraising concepts, and partner synergyCamp culture, youth‑weekend anticipation, and the laughs you only get at Goose CampListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Effective waterfowl habitat is often made, not born. On this DU Podcast, Texas’ Thunderbird Hunting Club manager Todd Steele takes you inside the world of moist soil wetlands management. He tells his secrets for attracting ducks and keeping them happy throughout the season. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Discover how women find belonging, mentorship, and confidence by stepping into the outdoors together.Host Bethany Beathard sits down with Jess Rice, founder of WildHERness, a women‑centered outdoor community built to empower beginners and seasoned outdoorswomen alike.Together, they explore what community really means for women entering the outdoor world—breaking down barriers, building skills, and creating friendships that change lives. From learning to hunt or kayak to embracing homesteading and conservation, Jess shares how shared experiences help women grow stronger, braver, and more connected.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why women thrive when they learn outdoor skills togetherHow Wilderness creates accessible, authentic adventure for every womanWhat mentorship looks like beyond huntingHow shared first‑time outdoor experiences deepen confidenceThe role of conservation, motherhood, and mental health in outdoor lifePractical ways women can find or build their own outdoor communityWildHERness - INSTAGRAMWildHERness - WEBSITESubscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world.Join the Ascend Instagram community at @duascend and http://www.ducks.org/ascend.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

In this special tribute episode, we honor the life, impact, and legacy of John Gordon—Media Productions Manager at Ducks Unlimited, lifelong outdoorsman, storyteller, mentor, friend, and a familiar voice to DU Nation and the Ducks Unlimited Podcast. John’s passing in January of 2026 left a profound void in the waterfowling community he spent a lifetime uplifting.Through stories and archival audio, we revisit John’s journey from his Mississippi roots to the Texas prairies that shaped his early hunting life, and eventually to his influential role at Ducks Unlimited where he helped bring DU Nation, DU Films, and countless conservation stories to life.About John GordonBorn in Mississippi, later moving with his family to Kingwood, Texas, where he discovered goose hunting and the Texas coastal prairie that shaped his lifelong passion.Worked as a snow goose guide on the Katy, Texas prairie before joining Ducks Unlimited.Graduated from Mississippi State University with a BA in Communications.Served as a Senior Communications Specialist at Ducks Unlimited, coordinating production for DUTV, DU Nation, and Ascend. . Frequent contributor and co‑host on the Ducks Unlimited Podcast, featuring conversations on retrievers, hunting heritage, and waterfowl history. Recognized writer with published work in WILDFOWL, Outdoor Life, and more.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host John Gordon sits down with Ray Voigt, former professional retriever trainer and current Purina senior specialist, and Karl Gunzer, Purina Sporting Dog Group Director, discussing all things dogs. They talk about their love for sporting breeds, canine nutrition, training tips, and the Bird Dog Hall of Fame. If you're a dog lover, this episode is a must-listen as they dive into the history and importance of sporting dogs. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Get a clear read on what drove Great Lakes hunting success this season—and how to adapt for spring snows, steelhead, and turkey.Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by DU’s Chris Jennings and returning Great Lakes voice Jay Anglin (Northern Indiana, guides primarily in Michigan) to break down conditions, bird behavior, and practical lessons learned.This episode is a boots‑on‑the‑ground season review from the Great Lakes region. Jay explains why he hunted fewer days but had better results by timing “the right days,” and why low water and inconsistent weather created a challenging year for local puddle ducks. The crew also digs into diver timing, late/odd Canada goose movement, big-water pressure from year‑round fishing, and the mindset shift that keeps hunts enjoyable even in down years.Takeaways:Why “hunting the right days” (wind, timing, conditions) mattered more than grinding it outHow drought/low water created short-lived habitat even after heavy rain burstsDiver storylines (especially redheads) vs. a slower mallard “burn” across key Great Lakes areasHow big-water refuge behavior, boat traffic, and fishing pressure push ducks offshoreThe mystery of “late Canada geese” and why it didn’t match typical patternsWhat’s next: conservation order snow geese, spring movement, steelhead, and turkey plansListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Take a deeper dive into how state policy drives habitat conservation, promotes access, and protects our hunting and outdoor traditions.Dr. Mike Brasher sits down with South Carolina State Senator Chip Campsen, DU’s Southern Region Director of Public Policy Ed Penny, and Wildlife Mississippi Executive Director James Cummins. They unpack proven tools like the South Carolina Conservation Bank, dedicated state funding models, and why respectful behavior and smart policy both matter for the future of hunting and fishing.From perpetual conservation easements to college‑town river hunts and the role of Boone & Crockett, this episode shows how statehouses—and the people who vote them in—influence opportunities for every hunter and angler. Takeaways:How the South Carolina Conservation Bank leverages competitive grants and easements to protect ~500,000 acres—and why seed funding stretches dollars farther Voluntary, perpetual easements: property‑rights friendly, customizable, and often paired with public access incentives Why clustered easements (ACE Basin, Santee Delta) create ecosystem‑scale wins for waterfowl and wildlife Dedicated state funding models (e.g., Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund) unlock big federal matches and local projects Social license to hunt and fish: how hunter behavior, messaging, and policy safeguard opportunity beyond a constitutional “right” CSF/NASC: bipartisan networks where state legislators swap playbooks that protect hunting, angling, and access Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

2009 World Duck Calling Champion Mike Anderson joins the DU Podcast to talk calls, calling and his favorite pastime, chasing river ducks. Anderson takes us on his journey from childhood to putting in the time and road miles that lead to becoming World Champion. We also discuss his favorite competition and hunting style calls and how Rich-N-Tone founder Butch Richenback mentored him all the way to the top of the contest calling mountain.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Learn how state-level decisions directly impact your seasons, access, opportunity, and conservation funding.Host Dr. Mike Brasher sits down with Kaleigh Leager of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation and Swanny Evans of Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever—two policy professionals working daily inside state capitols to protect hunting, fishing, trapping, and shooting traditions.Most hunters understand federal policy like the Duck Stamp or the Farm Bill. But far more decisions—from Sunday hunting to conservation funding and public‑land access—are made in state legislatures. This episode explains how the National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses works, why states are “laboratories of democracy,” and how small bills can create big downstream impacts on opportunity.In this episode:What the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation and NASC network doHow state bills—good and bad—spread across the countryWhy Sunday hunting reforms matter for access and R3Conservation funding: how license structures and federal match dollars really workWhy discounted or free licenses can unintentionally hurt state wildlife agenciesThe case for resident‑rate licenses for nonresident college studentsHow DU, PF/QF, and partners collaborate to stop harmful bills and advance positive onesListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Stop second-guessing yourself outdoors: learn what’s actually “icky,” what’s just noise, and how to build confidence fast. Julia Stallings is joined by DU Ascend host Erin Crider and Maggie Williams (duck hunter and women-in-the-outdoors advocate) to talk real etiquette, safety, and community.This episode gets honest (and funny) about the “icks” women run into in hunting and fishing culture—everything from performative photos to gear judgement. Erin and Maggie share practical ways to keep the outdoors welcoming: lead by example, teach without shaming, and prioritize safety when you’re alone on public land. You’ll also hear real talk on makeup, social media pressure, and how women are “redesigning what conservation looks like” through community and positivity.Why “duck in your mouth” photos turn people off—and what to do insteadMakeup in the blind: do it or don’t, but don’t let it define youThe fish photo ick: wide-angle, long-arming, and posing vs documenting the journeySafety on public land: why some women avoid pink and try not to “look like a girl” aloneGear talk that matters: fit challenges, cost, and what keeps new hunters coming backHow to correct a newcomer without tearing them down (DMs, tone, and leading by example)Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world.Join the Ascend Instagram community at @duascend and http://www.ducks.org/ascend.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Hosts Dr. Mike Brasher and Chris Jennings have a quick discussion on the basics of what separates these waterfowl types. Brasher explains anatomy, feeding types, and other differences between these ducks, while Jennings brings a handful of fun facts to the show. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Hear how a carver–painter duo learned the craft together, built a collection, and now run one of Illinois’ longest‑running decoy shows.Host Katie Burke talks with John and Amy Sarver—carvers, collectors, and organizers of the Henry Decoy Show—about their path into waterfowl art, carving as a team, and growing a younger decoy community.John grew up on the Illinois River surrounded by hunters and collectors, while Amy came from an artistic family with early exposure to Mississippi River decoys. They share how Pat Gregory pushed them into carving, how painting and sculpting became a shared language, and why they’re committed to keeping regional traditions alive. The pair also reflect on shows, mentors, travel hunts, and how inspiration from wild birds translates into their work.Takeaways:How childhood exposure to Illinois and Mississippi River traditions shaped their collectingWhy Pat Gregory’s push got the whole family carving—and why their first decoys “weren’t round”How Amy’s art background fuels both painting and wildlife studyThe history, growth, and youth engagement of the 58‑year‑old Henry Decoy ShowHunting trips—from Alaska to California—that influence their carving and paintingWhat it’s like being featured carvers as a young team in the craftListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Learn how pro waterfowl photographer Phil Kahnke scouts, sets up, and times the moment for jaw‑dropping duck images—and how it improves your hunting.Host Matt Harrison interviews photographer and lifelong hunter Phil Kahnke, known for striking waterfowl images and a methodical, hunt-first approach behind the lens.Kahnke traces his path from a hand‑me‑down film camera to modern digital work, explaining why his scouting mirrors a duck hunt and why perfect light, wind, and hide are non‑negotiable. He shares close calls on the ice, gear he won’t work without, and why hiding is the single most underrated factor for success—whether you carry a gun or a camera.Takeaways:The one moment that proved he could make magazine‑quality imagesWhy success is “10x harder than a duck hunt” and how he preparesHiding as the critical skill: getting birds below the horizonLight, wind, access, and backgrounds—how he chooses a spotPintails as the wariest, redheads as camera‑friendly, and why cans thrill himEthics in wildlife photography: wild birds, wild places, honest portrayalListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: [email protected]:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.