The North American Waterfowler

In this solo episode, I sit down with my Patreon crew for a live Q&A and cover a wide range of topics from duck hunting strategy to gear, pressure, and real world experiences in the field. We get into the spinner vs water motion debate, how I pack for out of state hunts, decoy spread differences on big water vs small water, and the reality of public land pressure. I also share thoughts on non resident hunting regulations, what I’m seeing across Kansas, and what might be coming next. On top of that, we dive into dog training resources, gear that actually makes a difference, and answer a bunch of listener questions from Patreon, Instagram, and Facebook. If you’re serious about freelance duck hunting and want honest answers without the fluff, this one’s for you. Partners Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Code: NAW10 Weatherby Shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Code: FDH10 TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Code: NAW18 Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpetproducts.com Code: GUARDIAN15 Want to join the live Q&As, get your questions answered first, and be part of the conversation? https://patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting For partnerships or inquiries: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Contact Elliott: [email protected] Join Elliott on Patreon: www.patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting Elliott sits down with Matt Zavlonek of High Prairie Sportsman to break down the past waterfowl season from start to finish. They dive into warm winters, changing bird patterns, and what hunters are seeing across multiple states including Nebraska, Wyoming, Utah, and beyond. This episode covers everything from mountain hunts and Salt Lake teal shoots to the deeper reason why we keep going back to the marsh. If you’ve been wondering what’s really going on with duck seasons lately, this is one you’ll want to hear. PARTNERS This episode is brought to you by: Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Code: NAW10 Weatherby Shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpetproducts.com Code: GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Code: FDH10 TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Code NAW18 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode turned into a full blown shooting breakdown with Scott Vix. If you’ve ever struggled hitting birds, especially that first shot, this one is for you. We get into the fundamentals most hunters never actually learn. Proper gun mount, where your eyes should be, how to move with the bird, and why so many guys miss even when they’re doing everything they think is right. I also walk through my own shooting struggles this season and where things started falling apart, especially when hunting in groups. Scott gives real world advice that applies directly to duck hunting, not just the clay range. If you want to become a more consistent shooter this season, this episode will help. Partners: Flight Day Ammunition → https://www.flightdayammo.com (Code: NAW10) Shotty Gear → https://www.shottygear.com (Code: FDH10) Weatherby Shotguns → https://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates → https://mammothpet.com (Code: GUARDIAN15) TideWe → https://www.tidewe.com (Code: NAW18) Patreon: Want to join live recordings, ask questions, and be part of the conversation? Join here → patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Patreon If you want more content like this and to go deeper into the hunts, join the Patreon. You’ll get: Early access to all videos Full length hunt videos with extra footage Exclusive podcasts and interviews Live streams and Q&A sessions Access to a community of serious waterfowl hunters This simulated hunt video will be available on Patreon before it goes live on YouTube. Join here:https://www.patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting In this episode, I break down a spring simulated duck hunt that turned into something way more valuable than I expected. What started as a fun way to get out with the dog and run some retrieves quickly turned into a reminder of just how important offseason scouting really is. From limited bird movement to adjusting on the fly, and ultimately finding a hidden backwater that I had completely overlooked, this hunt reinforced something I’ve believed for a long time. OnX is a great tool… but it’s not enough. There is no substitute for boots on the ground, putting in the time, and seeing these places with your own eyes. I also walk through: How I set up and ran the simulated hunt What I look for in early spring scouting Why certain spots are better for teal vs big ducks How water levels and vegetation impact your season And how one small decision can lead to finding your next great hunting location If you’re serious about improving your success this fall, this is the kind of work that separates average hunts from consistently good ones. As always, I appreciate you being here. If you have thoughts or questions, reach out on Instagram @freelanceduckhunting or @thenorthamericanwaterfowler. Partners Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Code: NAW10 Weatherby Shotguns & Rifleshttps://www.weatherby.com TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Code: NAW18 Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Search “Mammoth Dog Crate” on Amazon Code: GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Code: FDH10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: In this episode, I sit down with Missouri farmer and waterfowl hunter Derrick Lindstrom to get a different perspective on some of the challenges in today’s waterfowl world. We talk through what modern farming looks like, how it impacts habitat, and how that connects to access and hunting pressure. We also get into: • Why access to private land has changed • The relationship between hunters and landowners • Public land pressure • Getting started in waterfowl hunting without a mentor • Ideas for doing things better moving forward It’s a good, honest conversation from someone living on the other side of it. Partners: This episode is brought to you by: Flight Day Ammunition Use code NAW10⁠https://www.flightdayammo.com⁠ TideWe Use code NAW18⁠https://www.tidewe.com⁠ Shotty Gear⁠https://www.shottygear.com⁠ Weatherby Shotguns⁠https://www.weatherby.com⁠ Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Use code GUARDIAN15 Search “Mammoth Dog Crate” on Amazon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I break down a recent snow goose hunting weekend with Jake Maxwell and Aiden the Golden Boy, including a field hunt and a couple of classic snow goose stalks. We talk about the strategy behind those hunts, the dog work involved, and why these late season weekends have become one of my favorite traditions. After that, I respond to some listener comments from recent episodes featuring Dr. Michael Brasher and Dr. Goins. There has been a lot of discussion around duck population surveys, harvest impact, and whether hunters should trust the science behind waterfowl management. I read some of the comments and give my thoughts on the debate. Finally, I read a letter from a newer waterfowl hunter who had a tense situation unfold on public land involving decoys, a blind, and a confrontation with another hunter. It raises some interesting questions about ethics, etiquette, and how situations like that should be handled. If you have thoughts on the situation or want to share your own experiences, reach out and let me know. Flight Day AmmunitionPremium steel loads built for waterfowl hunters.Visit flightdayammo.comDiscount code: NAW10 Weatherby ShotgunsReliable shotguns built for the field and marsh.Learn more at weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog CratesDurable and secure kennels built to keep your dog safe during travel.Available on Amazon or at mammothpet.comDiscount code: GUARDIAN15 Shotty GearWaterfowl gear built by hunters for hunters.Shell holders, gun cases, backpacks, and more.Visit shottygear.comDiscount code: FDH10 TideWeAffordable outdoor gear including waders, outerwear, blinds, and packs.Visit tidewe.comDiscount code: NAW18 Contact Elliott: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I sit down with Dr. Mike Brasher, Senior Waterfowl Scientist for Ducks Unlimited, for a deep dive into one of the most debated topics in waterfowl hunting right now. Mallard numbers are down, pond counts are below average, and hunters across the country are asking the same question. Should seasons and limits be reduced? Dr. Brasher walks us through the science behind duck population surveys, how breeding population estimates are actually conducted, and how Adaptive Harvest Management (AHM) determines the frameworks for duck seasons in North America. We also discuss the ongoing debate about compensatory vs additive mortality, whether harvest is impacting duck populations, how pond counts affect productivity, and why the current regulatory system still supports liberal seasons despite declining mallard numbers. This conversation covers the full picture of how waterfowl populations are monitored and how hunting regulations are set. Topics covered include: • How duck population surveys are conducted • What the breeding population estimate actually represents • The role of the May pond count • Why habitat drives duck populations • The science behind Adaptive Harvest Management • Compensatory vs additive mortality • Whether harvest impacts duck populations • Why we are still in liberal seasons If you want to better understand how duck populations are managed and what the future of waterfowl seasons may look like, this episode is packed with valuable insight. Partners Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Code: NAW10 TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Code: NAW18 Weatherby Shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpet.com Code: GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Code: FDH10 Support the Podcast If you enjoy this podcast and want to support the show, consider joining the Patreon community. Patreon supporters get access to exclusive content, bonus material, and help make these conversations possible. Join here:https://www.patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Titus Headings from Mid Valley Mercenaries joins me to talk about where he has been and why he has been absent from YouTube and the MVM Show. We dig into his outstanding duck season, what has changed in his life over the past year, and some deeper conversations about faith and perspective. Titus is a guy I think the world of, and this was a really enjoyable conversation with a good friend. Partners Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Use code NAW10 (or FDH10) for 10% off Weatherby Shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.comUse code FDH10 for 10% off TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Use code NAW18 Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpetproducts.com Use code GUARDIAN15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since my recent conversation with Josh Goins, there’s been a lot of debate about duck numbers, hunting pressure, flooded corn, and the Adaptive Harvest Management system. In this episode, I step back from the noise, dig into the actual data, and explain what I’ve learned. We break down how AHM works, why seasons have remained liberal despite declining mallard numbers, and what the science says about additive vs compensatory mortality. I also compare current duck populations and prairie pond conditions to long-term averages and historic drought years to put today’s numbers into context. I’ll also revisit my recent reel about ducks going nocturnal around flooded corn and discuss what we actually know — and don’t know — about its impact on migration. Finally, I tease an upcoming Patreon-only livestream interview with Dr. Mike Brasher, Chief Scientist at Ducks Unlimited, where we’ll go even deeper into habitat, harvest management, and the future of waterfowl hunting. This episode is about facts, context, and understanding — not outrage. Partners Flight Day Ammunition Premium bismuth loads built specifically for waterfowl hunters. Reliable performance and clean kills. Use code NAW10https://www.flightdayammo.com TideWe Affordable, dependable hunting gear built for real conditions. Waders, blinds, backpacks, apparel, and more. Use code NAW18https://www.tidewe.com Weatherby High-performance shotguns trusted by serious waterfowl hunters. Built for reliability, durability, and performance in harsh conditions. https://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Heavy-duty aluminum crates designed to keep your dog safe in the field and on the road. Use code GUARDIAN15Search “Mammoth dog crate” on Amazon or visit the Mammoth Pet Products store Shotty Gear Rugged, affordable gear built by hunters for hunters. Blind bags, shell pouches, gun cases, lighting, apparel, and more. Use code FDH10https://www.shottygear.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Goins, founder of Flyway Federation, is one of the most controversial figures in modern waterfowl hunting. Supporters call him a truth teller fighting for everyday hunters. Critics say his claims oversimplify complex science. In this rare appearance, Josh sits down to explain his views on flooded corn, short stopping, migration changes, and the future of duck hunting across North America. This conversation dives into the data, the history, and the growing divide within the waterfowl community. Whether you agree with him or not, this is a perspective every hunter should hear. Love him or hate him, Josh Goins has changed the conversation. Support the companies that support this podcast: Flight Day Ammunition Premium bismuth waterfowl loads built for real world performancehttps://www.flightdayammo.com Use code NAW10 TideWe Quality hunting gear and apparel built for durability and valuehttps://www.tidewe.com Shotty Gear Waterproof, rugged gear designed by hunters for tough conditionshttps://www.shottygear.com Use code FDH10 Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Heavy duty protection for your retriever at home and on the road Search “Mammoth Dog Crate” on Amazon Use code GUARDIAN15 Weatherby Shotguns Precision built shotguns trusted by serious waterfowl huntershttps://www.weatherby.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

📝 EPISODE DESCRIPTION After Episode 250, the feedback poured in from hunters across the country. Some agree. Some strongly disagree. Many are seeing completely different realities depending on where they hunt. In this episode, Elliott reads and responds to real listener comments about duck numbers, migration patterns, hunting pressure, public vs private access, and what success actually looks like across different regions. From concerns about declining mallards to debates over effort, habitat, and expectations, this episode captures a wide cross section of opinions from the waterfowl community. No experts. No scripts. Just honest reactions to what hunters are experiencing on the ground right now. Shotty GearWaterproof, durable gear built by hunters for hunters. From shell pouches to gun cases, this is rugged equipment made to survive real conditions.🔗 https://www.shottygear.comCode: FDH10 TideWeAffordable, reliable hunting gear for every season, including waders, apparel, optics, and more.🔗 https://www.tidewe.comCode: NAW18 Weatherby ShotgunsDependable performance and fit right out of the box, trusted by hunters for generations.🔗 https://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog CratesSafe, rugged transport for your hunting partner, whether in the cab or the truck bed.🔗 https://www.mammothpet.comCode: GUARDIAN15 Flight Day AmmunitionMaximum payload steel loads designed for dense patterns and reliable performance in the field.🔗 https://www.flightdayammo.comCode: NAW10 Support the show and connect with Elliott’s core community of serious waterfowl hunters. Patreon members get bonus content, hunt giveaways, live events, and more. 👉 https://www.patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting 🤝 PARTNERS🔒 JOIN THE INNER CIRCLE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jordan Fromer of the Duck Gun Podcast joins Elliott for the first off-season recap of the year. With duck and goose seasons closed across most of the country, it’s time to look back at what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons learned from months in the field. Jordan hunted six different states this season, logging serious miles and experiencing a wide range of conditions, bird numbers, and hunting styles. In this episode, he breaks down his travels, favorite locations, toughest hunts, gear insights, and the realities of chasing birds across the country. If you’re already thinking about next season, this conversation is packed with perspective that can help you hunt smarter, scout better, and prepare during the off-season. PARTNERS Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Code NAW10 for 10% off Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Code FDH10 for 10% off Weatherby Firearmshttps://www.weatherby.com TideWe Hunting Gearhttps://www.tidewe.com Code NAW18 for 18% off Mammoth Guardian Dog Crate Search “Mammoth Dog Crate” on Amazon Code GUARDIAN15 for 15% off PATREON — Extra Hunts + Annual Hunt Giveaway Join here: https://www.patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting Get access to full hunt videos not released on YouTube, bonus content, and entry into the annual hunt giveaway on private flooded timber in Missouri. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler, I sit down for a civil and honest debate with a critic who took issue with a recent reel of mine about duck hunting effort, success, and responsibility. Instead of trading comments online, we chose to have the conversation face to face. We talk about flooded corn, migration changes, regional expectations, frustration in the waterfowl community, and where personal effort fits into the bigger picture. This episode is not about winning an argument. It is about listening, challenging assumptions, and having the kind of conversation hunters should be willing to have with one another. Support the show and get access to exclusive full length hunt films, bonus podcast episodes, live streams, and giveaways by joining Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting Partners of The North American Waterfowler Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Code NAW10 Weatherby Shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpet.com Code GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Code FDH10 TideWe Code NAW18https://bit.ly/49ghKzG Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I break down my entire duck season using logged hunt data from start to finish. I split the season into early, mid, and late segments and walk through harvest totals, shooting percentages, shots per hunt, satisfaction ratings, and species breakdowns for each phase of the year. Early season covers September 1 through October 31 and was dominated by blue wing teal and gadwall with high efficiency and solid satisfaction. Mid season runs November 1 through December 15 and shifted heavily into mallards, with more pressure, lower shooting percentages, and reduced satisfaction. Late season spans December 16 through close and became a mallard focused grind with more shots per hunt, higher difficulty, but improved satisfaction when things came together. I then zoom out to the full season totals, including 37 hunts, 129 ducks harvested, 239 shots fired, a 57.322 percent shooting percentage, and an average hunt satisfaction of 6.51. I also break down species totals across the entire season. Using those stats, I outline five offseason wants for 2026. These include TideWe heated gloves, the Lucky Twin Pack 2.0 mallard spinning wing decoys, the Higdon Pulsator PRO drake and hen combo, shotgun and ammo changes including 18i 5s, Muller choke considerations, and a possible move to a 20 gauge Weatherby Sorix. The final offseason want is a bigger motor, upgrading from a 35 horsepower surface drive with a goal of reaching upper teens speed when fully loaded. This episode is a full season review driven by real data and a clear look at what I am changing heading into next year. Partners Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Discount Code: NAW10 Weatherbyhttps://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpet.com Discount Code: GUARDIAN15 TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Discount Code: NAW18 Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Discount Code: FDH10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, Elliott sits down with Michael Flaspohler, Kale Flaspohler, and Dan Crigler from the Waterfowl Management Academy to talk about one of the most overlooked drivers of duck numbers: spring habitat. The discussion breaks down moist soil versus flooded corn, why invertebrates are critical during spring migration, and how water depth, timing, and habitat diversity directly impact duck production. With decades of experience managing public and private wetlands across Missouri and the Mississippi Flyway, the Waterfowl Management Academy team explains how spring habitat determines how many ducks make it back to the breeding grounds in good condition. They also introduce the Spring Habitat Campaign and explain how private landowners, hunters, and supporters can play a role in improving habitat during the most important season of the year. Learn more about the Waterfowl Management Academy and their spring habitat resources athttps://www.waterfowlmanagement.com Spring Habitat Campaign shirts support Ducks Unlimited, with proceeds helping fund habitat work on the breeding grounds. Support the podcast and get access to exclusive content, livestreams, and giveaways by joining Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting Podcast Partners TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com NAW18 for 18% off Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Use code NAW10 Weatherby Shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpet.com Use code GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Use code FDH10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I wrap up the 2025–26 waterfowl season and break down my final numbers, including harvest totals, shooting percentage, and what made this my second best season ever. I recap my final hunt of the year in brutal cold, ice hole mallards, and some absolutely unreal dog work that capped the season the right way. I also answer listener questions pulled from Instagram, covering topics like finding open water during deep freezes, boat choices for marshes and reservoirs, teal decoy setups, off season plans, and whether marshes or reservoirs are more enjoyable to hunt. Finally, I dig into a topic I keep hearing over and over. Is duck hunting really being “ruined”? By social media, guides, influencers, or pressure. I give my honest take based on decades in the field and why effort still matters more than anything else. If you’re wondering what to do now that the season is over, how to stay sharp in the off season, or you just enjoy honest waterfowl talk, this one’s for you. As always, thanks for listening and supporting the North American Waterfowler podcast. Partners: Shotty Gear Waterproof, rugged hunting gear built by hunters for hunters. Shell pouches, blind bags, backpacks, gun cases, and more.https://www.shottygear.com Code FDH10 for 10% off Flight Day Ammunition Quality steel waterfowl loads at a great price. I ran Flight Day all season.https://www.flightdayammo.com Code FDH10 for 10% off TideWe Waders, heated gear, jackets, gloves, and ground blinds. I use their heated vest and outerwear all season long.https://www.tidewe.com Podcast code NAW18 for 18% off Weatherby Shotguns From the Element and Orion to the 18i and beyond, Weatherby makes dependable shotguns for the field.https://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Safe, durable dog crates with an optional roll cage system for travel. Search Mammoth Guardian Dog Crate on Amazon or visithttps://www.mammothpet.com Code GUARDIAN15 for 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support the Podcast North American Waterfowler Apphttps://www.thenorthamericanwaterfowler.com Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting Episode Description In this episode, Elliott sits down with Chris Jobman for a wide ranging late season conversation that hits everything from weather driven duck movement to why some regions see more bands than others. They talk about the hunt giveaway crew, band stories, and the wild odds of killing two mallard pintail hybrids in the same spot just days apart. They also dig into habitat and food. Millet versus corn. Imprinting birds on a new marsh. Why ducks shortstop when conditions stay warm. Then they tackle the flooded corn debate head on, including the claim that it stops migration and the argument that it is baiting. Chris gives his take and Elliott adds perspective from Kansas and the Central Flyway. To wrap it up, Chris answers a listener question about force fetching a soft dog and why training the owner is often harder than training the dog. If you want to watch these recordings live and be part of the chat, join the Patreon community. Podcast Partners and Links Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Discount Code FDH10 Weatherby Shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpet.com Discount Code GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.comDiscount Code FDH10 TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Discount Code NAW18 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The North American Waterfowl Podcast, Elliott sits down with Harrison Collins of Hark Outdoors to talk North American waterfowl, chasing birds across the flyways, and the idea behind pursuing all 41 species. Harrison shares his path into waterfowl hunting, from not growing up hunting at all to traveling for ducks, hunting Arkansas public land, and building a product that celebrates the full spectrum of North American waterfowl. They dig into public land pressure, Arkansas timber hunts, migration struggles, dog work, and why the 41 species goal resonates with so many hunters. This conversation is about the culture of waterfowl hunting, the memories behind the birds, and finding meaningful ways to remember the hunts that matter. TideWe Waterproof and insulated hunting gear built for real hunters in real conditions Website https://bit.ly/4qHt5jB Discount code: NAW18 Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Heavy duty dog crates built for safety and serious travel Website https://www.mammothpet.com Discount code GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gear Hunter owned gear built to handle the marsh, the boat, and the blind Website https://www.shottygear.com Discount code FDH10 Flight Day Ammunition Premium ammunition for waterfowl hunters Website https://www.flightdayammo.com Discount code FDH10 Weatherby Shotguns Reliable shotguns trusted by hunters across North America Website https://www.weatherby.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Elliott covers a wide range of topics including recent YouTube warnings related to hunting content and why more of his best videos are being moved to Patreon. He shares honest thoughts on the current state of social media, addresses claims about toxicity within the waterfowl community, and explains why he believes social media itself is the real issue. Elliott also reflects on his most recent hunting decisions, the importance of small group and solo hunts, and how filming allows him to relive meaningful moments from the season. He discusses a major video project he is working on that captures his entire waterfowl season in one compilation. Additional topics include Kansas commission discussions around potential non resident hunting restrictions and Elliott’s thoughts on what changes may realistically be coming. To wrap up the episode, Elliott introduces a brand new feature on The North American Waterfowler app and website called Ask Elliott. This tool pulls from every episode of the podcast to answer waterfowl related questions based on years of recorded experience and conversations. Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.comCode: FDH10 for 10 percent offHigh quality steel loads with excellent patterns and consistent performance. Weatherbyhttps://www.weatherby.comFrom the Element series to the 18i and Orion shotguns, Weatherby continues to deliver reliable firearms for waterfowl and beyond. Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.comCode: FDH10Shell pouches, blind bags, backpacks, gun cases, and rugged gear built by hunters for hunters. TideWehttps://www.tidewe.comCode: NAW18 for 18 percent offWaders, blinds, rain gear, and waterfowl equipment that continues to improve in quality and durability. Mammoth Guardian Dog CratesSearch “Mammoth dog crate” on AmazonDurable crates designed to keep your dog safe without the high price tag of premium brands. Roll cage attachment sold separately. The North American Waterfowler App and Websitehttps://www.thenorthamericanwaterfowler.comLog hunts, track birds, connect with friends, and now use the Ask Elliott feature which pulls answers from every podcast episode. Patreon Exclusive Content and Hunt Giveawayshttps://www.patreon.com/freelanceduckhuntingAccess Patreon only hunts, full length videos, live podcast recordings, giveaways, and a strong waterfowl community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Elliott sits down with Spencer Lewis, better known as The Wetland Gypsy, for an honest and wide ranging conversation about modern waterfowl hunting, social media, and changing priorities. Spencer shares the origin of the Wetland Gypsy name, his upbringing in Texas, and how he found hunting without growing up in a traditional hunting family. He walks through his early days duck hunting out of a canoe, buying his first boat, and how traveling the Central Flyway completely reshaped his understanding of waterfowl hunting. The conversation dives into Spencer’s unexpected rise on TikTok through viral mudboat videos, how social media changed the way he hunted, and why constant pressure, competition, and ego within the waterfowl space have started to drain the joy from the sport. Elliott and Spencer talk candidly about hunting pressure, OnX, traveling hunters, public versus private land, and why it feels harder every year to simply find birds. They also discuss fatherhood, shifting priorities, and why Spencer is intentionally stepping back from being known as a waterfowl influencer. The episode closes with thoughts on respect for the resource, ethics, humility in hunting, and what really matters as seasons and stages of life change. This is a thoughtful conversation about ducks, identity, family, and what happens when passion meets burnout. Podcast Partners TideWe Durable hunting apparel built for real world conditions. From waders to outerwear, TideWe gear is designed for hunters who spend serious time in the field. Exclusive link: https://bit.ly/49ghKzG Discount code: NAW18 Flight Day Ammunition High quality waterfowl ammunition trusted by serious hunters.https://www.flightdayammo.com Discount code: FDH10 Weatherby Premium shotguns known for performance, reliability, and craftsmanship.https://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Pet Products Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates are built for hunters who demand durability and safety. The optional roll cage is sold separately and features steel bars with welded tie down points and a chrome plated heavy duty door frame.https://www.mammothpet.com Discount code: GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gear Hunter owned brand producing rugged and affordable waterfowl gear including shell pouches, blind bags, backpacks, gun cases, duck straps, apparel, and boat lighting.https://www.shottygear.com Discount code: FDH10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Podcast Description This episode was recorded during an active duck hunt. Between flights and shots, I kept the mics rolling and captured the hunt as it unfolded in real time. In this episode, you will hear ducks being shot while the conversation continues. I walk through what I carry with me while hunting, go through my blind bag piece by piece, and give a real world update on the Cruchanator 2000. There is no studio, no pause button, and no cleanup. Just hunting, talking, and letting the morning play out naturally. This is a raw, in the field episode recorded exactly where the hunt was happening. Partners and Links Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Use code FDH10 Weatherby Shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Use Code: FDH18 Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpet.com Use code GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Use code FDH10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a mix of two things. A full recap of a killer Christmas weekend with Stormy Crook and Aiden, and then a real talk discussion on using treats in retriever training. I start with why a simple comment I left on a Facebook video turned into a bigger conversation. The video showed a young pup being sent to a place board using treats, and I explain why I personally avoid treats with average to high drive retrievers. I get into intrinsic vs extrinsic motivation, why I want my dog working for the relationship and teamwork, and why I believe that foundation matters later when you are asking a dog to trust you on blinds and fight factors like wind and pressure. I am also going to ask Chris Jobman about this directly on the Flatlander Kennels Podcast, and I am open to being corrected. Before we get to that, I take you through one of my favorite stretches of the year, Christmas break, Mallard season, and the obsessive nature of waterfowl hunting. Then I break down an unforgettable weekend hosting Stormy and Aiden. We hunted hard, dealt with ice, ran the boat where other guys could not, and ended up with back to back three man Mallard limits with a bunch of feet down finishes. It was one of those rare weekends where expectations were low, the hunts were incredible, and everything came together. Wives had a great weekend too, and the new muck room got put to use the way it was meant to be used. Partners Shotty Gear 🔗 https://www.shottygear.com 💸 Code: FDH10 — 10% off TideWe 🔗 https://www.tidewe.com 💸 Code: FDH18 — 18% off Flight Day Ammunition 🔗 https://www.flightdayammo.com 💸 Code: FDH10 — 10% off Mammoth Guardian Dog Crate / Mammoth Pet Products 🔗 https://www.mammothpetproducts.com 💸 Code: GUARDIAN15 — 15% off (Also available on Amazon — search Mammoth Guardian Dog Crate) Weatherby Shotguns 🔗 https://www.weatherby.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, I’m joined by Austin Williams, a Missouri waterfowler who was randomly selected from Patreon to come on the show. These Patreon wheel episodes have become some of my favorites because they’re simple, honest conversations with everyday waterfowlers who live this life just like the rest of us. We talk about the recent Hunt Giveaway weekend, ice eaters, cold mornings, stubborn ducks, and how these trips have become about much more than just killing birds. I also reflect a bit on how waterfowl hunting, fellowship, and faith have helped me weather a very difficult couple of years and why these weekends in the blind matter more than ever. If you’ve ever wondered what the Patreon community is really about, this episode gives you a clear picture. It’s not just content. It’s friendships, shared experiences, and time spent doing what we all love. Shotty GearWaterproof, durable hunting gear built by hunters for hunters. From shell pouches to blind bags and packs, Shotty Gear is designed to take abuse and keep working.https://www.shottygear.comUse code FDH10 for 10 percent off Flight Day AmmunitionPremium steel waterfowl loads designed for consistent patterns and clean kills. I run Flight Day shells all season and trust them when it matters.https://www.flightdayammo.comUse code FDH10 for 10 percent off Mammoth Guardian Dog CratesA rugged, affordable dog crate system with an optional steel roll cage for added protection in the truck bed. A great option without paying premium crate prices.https://www.mammothpetproducts.comUse code GUARDIAN15 for 15 percent off TIDEWEAffordable and functional waterfowl gear including heated vests, jackets, waders, and ground blinds. Perfect for cold late season hunts when layering matters.https://www.tidewe.comUse code FDH18 for 18 percent off WeatherbyReliable shotguns built for hunters who actually use their gear. From the Element series to the Orion and SORIX, Weatherby continues to deliver field proven performance.https://www.weatherby.com Episode DescriptionPodcast Partners Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description In this episode, I’m joined by Capt. Casey, Ben Meyers from Flight Day Ammunition, and Brian Halblieb, host of The Migration Waterfowl Podcast. We spent the weekend together at an Airbnb for a hunt giveaway weekend after Casey was drawn as the winner. We break down both Day 1 and Day 2 of the hunt, what conditions were like, how the birds worked, and how the weekend unfolded from camp conversations to the field. We talk about adjustments, success, and the moments that made this hunt memorable. We were able to shoot full limits over the two days, and Casey capped off the weekend by shooting a banded mallard. This episode is part hunt recap, part camp talk, and a good look at what these giveaway weekends are really like behind the scenes. Flight Day Ammunition Flight Day Ammunition produces premium waterfowl loads that are built by hunters for hunters. Their shells are clean, consistent, and designed to perform in real world hunting conditions. Websitehttps://www.flightdayammo.com Discount Code FDH10 Use code FDH10 at checkout to save on your order. Partner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Elliott Snider and returning guest Jordan Fromer for a wide open conversation covering everything from tech troubles and early-season memories to Jordan’s incredible ice hole streak in Indiana. Jordan breaks down why this cold snap has produced some of his best mallard hunts ever, how he scouts fast flowing rivers, and what’s behind the sudden push of ducks into his state. Elliott and Jordan also react to the bizarre Utah scenes Matt Zavonic has been reporting, including driveway corn piles, domesticated ducks, discarded birds, and a mysterious caged animal left at a WMA. The two discuss ethics in the field, band stories, river access laws, duck behavior during freeze lines, and why fresh birds make all the difference. A fun, honest, hunt-heavy episode with plenty of laughs and solid waterfowl insight. Flight Day Ammunition High performance bismuth and steel loads. Link: https://www.flightdayammo.com Code: FDH10 Weatherby Shotguns and rifles built for waterfowlers. Link: https://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Rugged kennel systems built for serious hunters. Search "Mammoth dog crate" on Amazon or visit the Mammoth Pet Products Store. Code: GUARDIAN15Note: The roll cage is sold separately with welded tie down points and a chrome-plated heavy duty door frame. Shotty Gear Waterproof, durable blind bags, shell pouches, straps, apparel, and boat lighting. Built by a small hunter owned operation.Link: https://www.shottygear.comCode: FDH10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I walk through the long term mallard population trends and ask a simple question. Can the average hunter actually feel the effects of this decline. Mallard numbers have dropped from more than eleven million in 2016 to around six and a half million today. I look at the historical highs and lows, compare them to my own data since 2016, and talk about whether the current dip is truly changing the way our hunts unfold or if our success still comes down to weather patterns, decisions, and being in the right place at the right time. I also break down the recent cold snaps, the sudden migration push across the Central Flyway, and how difficult it can be to make good decisions when the shallow marshes freeze solid. I talk about yesterday’s frustrating river hunt, why finishing ducks has been so tough this year, what I am seeing from other hunters, and why this season feels so strange. Later in the episode I preview the Patreon hunt giveaway weekend with Captain Casey, Brian H. from the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, and Ben Meyers. I also share early thoughts on planning the spring Patreon float trip and what the next few weeks of December may look like. If you watch on Spotify you can drop comments and share your thoughts on whether declining mallard populations are affecting your hunting. I would love to hear what you think. PARTNER LINKS Flight Day Ammunition www.flightdayammo.com Shotty Gear http://www.shottygear.com Use code FDH10 for ten percent off TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Use code FDH18 for eighteen percent off Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Search Mammoth Dog Crate on Amazon or visit the Mammoth Pet Products store Use code GUARDIAN15 for fifteen percent off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Elliott as he recounts his Thanksgiving week filled with waterfowl hunting adventures. From unpredictable weather challenges to the camaraderie with fellow hunters, Elliott shares insights on bird movements, gear choices, and memorable hunts, including a top five hunt of his life. Tune in for a deep dive into the art of waterfowl hunting and the strategies that make it successful. Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.com Discount code FDH10 Weatherby Shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crateshttps://www.mammothpetproducts.com Discount code GUARDIAN15Reminder that the roll cage is sold separately and includes steel bars with welded tie downs and a chrome plated heavy duty door frame Shotty Gearhttps://www.shottygear.com Discount code FDH10 TideWehttps://www.tidewe.com Discount code FDH10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler, Elliott goes full rant mode. From holiday nostalgia to Chiefs stress to duck hunting “experts” who speak in absolutes, this one covers it all. Elliott breaks down why claims about mallards, cold fronts, ice, and snow often get tossed around like scientific fact when most of it is nothing more than opinion dressed up as truth. He also dives into weather frustration, the chaos of unpredictable forecasts, and the strategy game of stale-bird hunting. Then the big one: Georgie’s escalating whining problem. Elliott lays out exactly how it’s getting worse, why it’s such a devastating issue for a dog guy, and why even top pros don’t have a real solution. The episode wraps with November hunt stats, comment of the week, and a powerful message for hunters dealing with trials and stress during the holiday season. PARTNERS AND DISCOUNT CODES Flight Day Ammunition Website: flightdayammo.com Code: FDH10 Details: Steel sixes, fives, threes and fours. Available in 20 gauge, 28 gauge, and 12 gauge. Cases of 200 or 250. Shotty Gear Website: shottygear.com Code: FDH10 Details: Waterproof packs, gun cases, shell pouches, blind bags and gear built for waterfowlers. Backpacks restocking soon. TideWe Website: tidewe.com Code: FDH18 Details: Heated vests and gloves, breathable waders from entry level to high end, and reliable cold weather gear. Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Website: mammothpetproducts.com Code: GUARDIAN15 Details: Heavy duty dog crates with optional roll cage. Available on the Mammoth Pet Products site or by searching “Mammoth Guardian Dog Crate” on Amazon. Weatherby Shotguns Website: weatherby.com Details: Elliott is running the Element shotguns this year, including the 20 gauge with sixes and the 12 gauge 18. Also includes the Orion over-under series. North American Waterfowler App iOS and Android Website version: thenorthamericanwaterfowler.com Details: New photo library feature showing all hunt photos in one place. Tap a picture to pull up every hunt detail. Patreon Community patreon.com/freelanceduckhunting Details: Supports the show and includes full access to the NAW app plus bonus content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Meyers from Flight Day Ammunition is back and we tell the full story behind recent comments about Flight Day on the Boss Shot Shells fan page. We walk through the pattern comparison that started it, how Flight Day steel edged out Boss Steel Reserve on the board, and why Ben thinks muzzle velocity myths just will not die. Ben breaks down copper shot versus premium slow steel, real gel test results, pattern percentages at forty yards, and what actually matters from thirty to fifty yards when birds are over the decoys. We also talk pump failures, flooding timber for mallards, Thanksgiving weather, and why I am still running sixes in my twenty gauge with a Muller decoy choke. Flight Day Ammunition Premium slow steel designed for serious duck hunters who care about pattern density and clean kills. Flight Day Ammunitionhttps://www.flightdayammo.comCode: FDH10 for a discount on your order Weatherby ShotgunsThe shotguns I rely on for every hunt and every video. Weatherby sitehttps://www.weatherby.com TideWe Waders, boots, and hunting gear that actually match the way we hunt. TideWe site Code: FDH18https://www.tidewe.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates Heavy duty crates built to protect your retriever at duck camp or on the road.Mammoth sitehttps://www.mammothpet.com/products/guardianCode: GUARDIAN15 for a discount on Guardian crates Shotty Gear Waterproof blind bags, shell pouches, apparel, and gear built by real waterfowl hunters. Shotty Gear sitehttps://www.shottygear.comCode: FDH10 for a discount on your order Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Elliott checks in from the heart of mid season in the Central Flyway with a full weather and migration update from Kansas. Warm temperatures and a late push of birds have made this stretch tricky, so he walks through the ten day forecast, talks about why he actually took a rare weekend off from hunting, and explains what he looks for when deciding whether to rest or grind. You will hear about date night at the old school winery, the feeling of being fully rested on a November Saturday, and how that ties back into keeping family and hunting in balance. Elliott also recaps a four day duck camp with Jordan Fromer, Brian Hallblieb, Aiden and Jeremy, complete with hot tent living, steak dinners, and some really solid hunts. He breaks down his current numbers at the midpoint of the season, the exact moment the migration flipped from mixed bags to true mallard season, and why he thinks the new trend of saying birds only show up on the first south wind day is overrated. Along the way he talks marsh etiquette, OnX yardages, Georgie’s sore paw, geese landing on spinning wing decoys, and how Thrill of the Fight on the Meta Quest is changing his fitness and mindset. If you love hearing honest talk about weather, birds, camp life, and the little details that make waterfowling special, this one is for you. TideWE — Use code FDH18 at tidewe.com for 18 % off. Shotty Gear — Use code FDH10 at shottygear.com for a discount on shell pouches, backpacks, gun cases and more. Flight Day Ammunition — Use code FDH10 at flightdayammo.com for your ammo needs. Mammoth Pet Products — Use discount code GUARDIAN15 for the Mammoth Guardian Dog Crate (search “Mammoth Guardian Dog Crate” on Amazon). Weatherby — (No code mentioned, but linked as a sponsor for shotguns.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode description Elliott sits down with Wisconsin waterfowler and patron guest Jake Brokish. They compare notes on a fresh cold front push, the shift from blue-wing teal and wood ducks to mallards, and why the best flights often arrive overnight. Jake walks through his small-boat backwater approach on the Mississippi, hiding off the boat when possible, and what geese do over water when spinners are running. They hit calling goals for the season, gear priorities, and how warm falls keep changing the rhythm of mid-November hunts. There is a little Packers talk, a little soup-by-the-fire honesty, and plenty of practical takeaways for anyone chasing ducks on shallow pockets and cattails. TideWe — heated vests, base layers, waders, blinds Use code FDH18 for 18% off.https://www.tidewe.com Shotty Gear — shell pouches, backpacks, blind bags, rugged gun cases, duck straps Use code FDH10 for 10% off.https://www.shottygear.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates — lightweight crate with optional roll-cage add-on Use code GUARDIAN15 for 15% off. Amazon: search Mammoth Guardian Dog Crate or visit Mammoth Pet Productshttps://www.mammothpetproducts.com Weatherby — Element and 18i shotgunshttps://www.weatherby.com Flight Day Ammunition — waterfowl loads in 20 gauge and more Use code FDH10 for 10% off.https://www.flightdayammo.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Marino of Marino Decoys joins Elliott to share how a kids pastor fell in love with carving and turned high density cork and tupelo heads into functional art that hunts. Mike walks through his full process from pattern and bandsaw to glass eyes and paint, why cork still floats after a stray pellet, and how he creates working urn decoys that hold a dog’s ashes and even shells. He talks species he carves and hunts, goldeneye addiction on frozen reservoirs, first place ribbons at the Colorado State Fair, and the “Just One More” mission behind his brand. Elliott and Mike also swap notes on cooking divers, raising kids in the blind, and why faith brings real freedom. See Mike’s work at marinodecoys.com and on Instagram and Facebook at Marino Decoys. Partners Flight Day Ammunition – flightdayammo.com — Code: FDH10 Weatherby Shotguns – weatherby.com TideWe Waders & Gear – tidewe.com — Code: FDH18 Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates – mammothpetproducts.com — Code: GUARDIAN15 Shotty Gear – shottygear.com — Code: FDH10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this November 3 episode I break down the big duck opener from a solo kayak hide that turned into a pintail show. First frost mornings, a steady northwest wind, and plenty of birds made for a memorable hunt with Georgie working hard. I share how the sun angle and a spinner affected finishing birds, why I shifted setups mid hunt, and a quick story about an eight point buck slipping along the willows. We also tackle three listener questions from Instagram including my most dangerous moments in the marsh, when ducks are simply too high to call, and why solids have become popular alongside camo. I close with a North American Waterfowler app snapshot of the season so far and a look ahead at camp plans for next weekend. TideWe – Heated vests, coats, waders, and blinds. Black Friday sale running through December 1. Use code FDH18 for 18% off at TideWe.com Shotty Gear – Waterproof shell pouches, gear bags, and gun cases. Use code FDH10 for 10% off at ShottyGear.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates – Heavy-duty, crash-tested crates. Pair with the roll cage for maximum protection. Use code GUARDIAN15 at MammothPet.com/Guardian Flight Day Ammunition – steel loads that hit hard. Check them out at FlightDayAmmo.com FDH10 Code Weatherby Shotguns – From the Element 2 to the Orion and 18i series, reliable performance for every hunt. Browse the lineup at Weatherby.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this listener-driven Q&A episode, Elliott dives into some of the most debated topics in waterfowling today. He talks about why blue-wing teal are still hanging around Kansas later than normal, whether spinners should stay in the spread through November, how to fairly handle “who shot what” in group hunts, and if leaving headlamps in a hole to hold your spot crosses the line. Packed with practical hunting insight, laughs, and candid thoughts from the live Patreon stream — this one’s all about real duck talk with the North American Waterfowler community. Flight Day Ammunition – https://www.flightdayammo.com Code FDH10 for 10% off Weatherby Shotguns – https://www.weatherby.com TideWe – https://www.tidewe.com Code FDH18 for 18% off Shotty Gear – https://www.shottygear.com Code FDH10 for 10% off Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates – Search Mammoth Guardian Dog Crate on Amazon Code GUARDIAN15 for 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us deep in the Sandhills of Nebraska for one of the most remote hunts we’ve ever done. We set up a hot tent miles from anywhere and lived completely off the grid. In this episode, we share stories from camp, the challenges of life in the middle of nowhere, and the excitement of a successful Day 1 duck hunt in the Sandhills. Flight Day Ammunition – https://www.flightdayammo.com – Code FDH10Weatherby Shotguns – https://www.weatherby.comMammoth Guardian Dog Crates – Code GUARDIAN15Shotty Gear – https://www.shottygear.com – Code FDH10TideWe – https://www.tidewe.com – Code FDH18 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an exciting episode of the North American Waterfowler Podcast as Elliott Snider sits down with Walter Jones, also known as Captain Casey. Discover the thrilling story behind Walter's big win in the hunt giveaway and delve into his fascinating life as a boat captain and avid hunter. From fishing tournaments to duck hunting adventures, Walter shares his unique experiences and insights. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with laughter, stories, and a shared passion for the great outdoors. Flight Day Ammunition — flightdayammo.com — Use code FDH10 for 10% off. Shotty Gear — shottygear.com — Use code FDH10 for 10% off. TideWe Outdoors — tidewe.com — Use code FDH18 for 18% off. Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates — Use code GUARDIAN15 for 15% off. Weatherby Shotguns — weatherby.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Elliott and Jordan Fromer as they talk through early-season hunting, fog-filled mornings, and the ethics of sharing public spots. They dive into how they handle field conflicts, spinner use on geese, and what it’s like building and camping out of a truck bed rig. Elliott also recaps his Youth and Veteran opener filled with teal, pintail, and wigeon, plus updates on new filters inside The North American Waterfowler app. 🎯 Flight Day Ammunition – flightdayammo.com — Code FDH10 for 10% off 💧 TideWe Outdoor Gear – tidewe.com — Code FDH18 for 18% off 🦆 Shotty Gear – shottygear.com — Code FDH10 for 10% off 🐾 Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates – Search “Mammoth dog crate” on Amazon — Code GUARDIAN15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Partners & Discount Codes 🎯 Flight Day Ammunition – https://www.flightdayammo.com Use code FDH10 for 10% off bismuth loads built for serious waterfowlers. 🎯 Shotty Gear – https://www.shottygear.com Use code FDH10 for 10% off rugged shell pouches, blind bags, and gun cases made by real duck hunters. 🎯 TideWe Outdoors – https://www.tidewe.com Use code FDH18 for 18% off waders, heated gear, and hunting apparel. 🎯 Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates – Search “Mammoth dog crate” on Amazon or visit the site above. Use code GUARDIAN15 for 15% off their heavy-duty crates and roll cages. 🎯 Weatherby Shotguns – https://www.weatherby.com Dependable performance built for tough marsh conditions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, Elliott shares a solo layout boat hunt recap, reflecting on pintails, teal, and what it takes to stay effective in the field. He also opens up about faith, addressing the tough questions many hunters and listeners have raised about trials, free will, and God’s plan in hard times—encouraging us to see challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth. Along the way, Elliott dives into gear performance, including his experience with Flight Day Bismuth ammo, the Weatherby Element 2 shotgun, Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates, TideWe waders, and Shotty Gear. The show wraps up with Woody’s much-loved Top 5 segment. Whether you’re here for the hunts, the faith talk, or the gear insights, this episode brings it all together. Flight Day Ammunition — https://www.flightdayammo.com — Code FDH10 for 10% off Weatherby Shotguns — https://weatherby.com Purina Dog Food — https://www.purina.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates — search “Mammoth dog crate” on Amazon (look for Mammoth Pet Products store) — Code GUARDIAN15 for 15% off TideWe — https://www.tidewe.com FDH18 for 18% off Shotty Gear — https://www.shottygear.com — Code FDH10 for 10% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: On my way to the 2025 big duck opener, I’m layout boat hunting solo. In this episode, I dive into my personal history with layout boat hunting, why it’s one of my favorite styles of hunting, and share practical tips for anyone wanting to give it a try. Flight Day Ammunition – Premium bismuth loads for waterfowlers.flightdayammo.comCode: FDH10 for 10% off Weatherby Shotguns – Legendary shotguns built for the hunt.weatherby.com Purina Pro Plan Dog Food – Nutrition trusted by hunters and trainers.purina.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates – Built tough for safety and durability.mammothpetproducts.comCode: GUARDIAN15 for 15% off Shotty Gear – Waterproof, durable, and affordable gear for everyday duck hunters.shottygear.comCode: FDH10 for 10% off Sponsors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as I sit down with Thomas Hoke from Hoke Outdoors to dig into his recent Canada trip, scouting process, and some of the best hunts of his season so far. We talk about what it takes to freelance successfully in Canada, the challenges of keeping a young retriever steady in the field, and how early season hunts in Minnesota have shaped up. From knocking on doors to managing high-volume mallard shoots, Thomas shares what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you’re planning a freelance trip of your own or just love hearing about the grind behind the hunts, this one is packed with insight, reflection, and practical tips. Partners of the North American Waterfowler Podcast: Flight Day Ammunition — https://www.flightdayammo.com — Code FDH10 for 10% off Weatherby Shotguns — https://www.weatherby.com Purina Dog Food — https://www.purina.com Mammoth Guardian Dog Crates — Search “Mammoth dog crate” on Amazon or visit the Mammoth Pet Products store on Amazon — Code GUARDIAN15 for 15% off Shotty Gear — https://www.shottygear.com — Code FDH10 for 10% off TideWe — https://www.tidewe.com — Code FDH18 for 18% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices