On this episode of The Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes Tony and Tristan Vogel, the father-son team behind One Hell of a Life Outdoors and the One Hell of a Life Outdoor Podcast.

We discuss how they got started waterfowl hunting, the experiences that shaped them as hunters, and how their approach to chasing ducks and geese has evolved over the years. From their early days in the blind to what a typical season looks like today, Tony and Tristan share lessons learned through decades of hunting and time spent outdoors together.

We also dive into a topic that seems to be on the minds of many hunters today: the current state of waterfowl social media. Is it helping grow the sport, or creating more division within the hunting community? We discuss authenticity in outdoor content, hunting culture online, and what responsibility content creators have when representing the future of our sport.

Whether you're a lifelong waterfowl hunter, a new hunter looking to learn, or someone interested in the future of hunting culture, this episode is packed with honest conversation and valuable perspective.

Please share this episode with your waterfowl hunting friends and family, and thank you for supporting The Migration Waterfowl Podcast.

Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected]

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store - Gear Roost & Apparel

https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com

Patreon - Support the show & get more personal content from Brian

https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Am-mo

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Retay USA

https://www.retayusa.com

frogg toggs

https://www.froggtoggs.com

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes Ben Meyers of Flight Day Ammunition back to the show for an in-depth discussion on the current state and future of waterfowl ammunition.

The conversation begins with a breakdown of the recent U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service memorandum clarifying approved non-toxic shot requirements for migratory bird hunting. Ben explains what the memo means for hunters, manufacturers, and the future development of non-toxic shot materials. They discuss copper shot, approved shot types, the federal approval process, and some of the misconceptions circulating throughout the hunting community.

Brian and Ben also take a deep dive into the economics of waterfowl ammunition, including the rising costs of bismuth and tungsten shot. Ben shares insight into global supply chains, material availability, pricing trends, and how market forces continue to shape the ammunition industry.

The discussion also covers the practical side of things for waterfowl hunters. Ben compares steel, bismuth, and tungsten loads, explains where each option shines in the field, and offers advice on choosing the right ammunition for different hunting situations and budgets.

Whether you're interested in regulations, ballistics, ammunition technology, or simply want to become a more informed waterfowl hunter, this episode is packed with valuable information.

Please share this episode with your waterfowl hunting friends and family.

Learn more about Flight Day Ammunition at FlightDayAmmo.com.

Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected]

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store - Gear Roost & Apparel

https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com

Patreon - Support the show & get more personal content from Brian

https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Am-mo

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Retay USA

https://www.retayusa.com

frogg toggs

https://www.froggtoggs.com

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib is joined by Chris Williams, Senior Director of Industry Partnerships at Delta Waterfowl.

Chris shares the history of Delta Waterfowl and explains how the organization evolved into one of the leading voices in duck production, hunter recruitment, and waterfowl conservation in North America. Brian and Chris discuss Delta’s mission, major accomplishments, current conservation projects, habitat priorities, and the state of duck populations heading into the future.

The conversation also covers some of the biggest issues facing hunters today, including public land concerns, anti-hunting legislation, conservation funding, and the importance of keeping hunters engaged in protecting the future of waterfowl hunting.

Chris also gives listeners an inside look at the 2026 Delta Waterfowl Duck Hunters Expo happening July 24–26 in Des Moines, Iowa. They discuss what attendees can expect, why the Expo continues to grow, and why events like this matter for the future of the hunting community.

Whether you’re passionate about duck conservation, habitat, public lands, or simply want to become a more informed waterfowl hunter, this episode is packed with valuable insight and discussion.

Please share this episode with your hunting friends and family and thank you for supporting the Migration Waterfowl Podcast.

Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected]

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store - Gear Roost & Apparel

https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com

Patreon - Support the show & get more personal content from Brian

https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Am-mo

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Retay USA

https://www.retayusa.com

frogg toggs

https://www.froggtoggs.com

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes Ernest Gonzales of Feet Down Waterfowl to the show.

Ernest is a hardcore Texas waterfowl hunter and content creator known for sharing his passion for the sport through Feet Down Waterfowl on TikTok. Brian gets Ernest’s background and hears the story of how his obsession with duck hunting began before diving into what makes waterfowl hunting in Texas unique.

The conversation turns to scouting, hunting strategy, and lessons learned from years spent chasing ducks. Ernest shares his approach to breaking down new areas, discusses common mistakes hunters make, and explains what separates average hunters from consistently successful waterfowl hunters.

Brian and Ernest also talk about the role social media plays in hunting today, how platforms like TikTok have influenced hunting culture, gear philosophies, unpopular opinions, and plenty of stories from time spent in the marsh.

Waterfowl hunters of all experience levels will find some entertaining stories and practical takeaways in this episode.

Please share this episode with your waterfowl hunting friends and family.

Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected]

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store - Gear Roost & Apparel

https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com

Patreon - Support the show & get more personal content from Brian

https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Am-mo

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Retay USA

https://www.retayusa.com

frogg toggs

https://www.froggtoggs.com

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib dives into one of the topics he gets asked about a lot: freelance waterfowl road trips.

From choosing a destination and planning a hunt to licensing, budgeting, scouting, gear selection, and deciding where to actually hunt once you arrive, Brian breaks down his complete process for planning DIY waterfowl adventures. Whether you're thinking about taking your first out-of-state hunt or looking to become a more efficient travel hunter, this episode is packed with practical information and lessons learned through years of trial and error.

Brian discusses how he researches potential hunting locations, what resources he uses before ever leaving home, how he approaches scouting unfamiliar areas, and the gear that makes the cut when space is limited. He also covers regulations and licensing considerations, the importance of understanding each state or province waterfowl laws, and what happens after the hunt—including transporting and making use of harvested birds.

If you've ever wondered what really goes into planning a successful freelance hunt beyond the social media highlight reels, this episode pulls back the curtain.

Please share this episode with your hunting friends and family, and thank you for supporting the Migration Waterfowl Podcast.

Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected]

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Patreon - You can support the show here and get exclusive access!

https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Apparel & Gear Roost

https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Am-mo

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Retay USA

https://www.retayusa.com

frogg Toggs

https://www.froggtoggs.com

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes his friend and hunting partner Mike Pomaibo back to the show. Mike is a hardcore waterfowl hunter from Pennsylvania. Brian asks Mike about his recent turkey hunting success and gets to hear the story of the gobbler Mike got to harvest while hunting with his dad. They talk about tungsten ammunition and the extreme rise in cost of TSS rounds.

The conversation turns to waterfowl hunting and Brian asks Mike to share his perspective of what has worked and what hasn't as he has matured as a waterfowl hunter over the last few seasons. Mike shares his top 5 tips that helped him level up his waterfowl hunting game. He also breaks down some common misconceptions he expected as a new waterfowl hunter and how he dealt with those.

Waterfowl hunters of all levels will find some great information in this episode. Please share this with your waterfowl hunting friends and family.

Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected]

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Merchandise & The Gear Roost:

https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Am-mo

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Retay USA

https://www.retayusa.com

frogg Toggs

https://www.froggtoggs.com

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib breaks down his ideal waterfowl season blueprint—what he would do differently if he could start from scratch, knowing what he knows now.

From defining what a successful season actually looks like, to structuring early, mid, and late season hunts, Brian dives into the strategies that separate a reactive season from an intentional one. He covers how to balance local hunting and travel, why off-season prep matters more than most hunters realize, and how staying organized and ready can lead to more opportunities in the field.

Brian also discusses the importance of hunting conditions over calendar dates, choosing the right hunting partners, and adapting when things don’t go according to plan—because they rarely do.

Whether you’re chasing more consistent success or just looking to get more out of your time in the blind, this episode will help you approach the upcoming season with purpose.

⸻

In This Episode:

⸻

Support the Show:

If you’re enjoying the podcast, consider supporting on Patreon. Choose from Flyway Member, Blind Partner, or Migration Crew tiers—each designed to bring you closer to the show and the Migration Waterfowl community.

https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl

⸻

Connect & Follow:

Follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for more content, gear, and behind-the-scenes from the season.

Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow waterfowl hunter.

Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected]

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Am-mo

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Retay USA

https://www.retayusa.com

frogg Toggs

https://www.froggtoggs.com

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most waterfowl hunters overlook how innovation and community are changing the game—and they often miss the real story behind your favorite gear. Don Espy, a seasoned outdoor industry pro and marketing expert at Frog Togs, unpacks how authentic relationships, cutting-edge product design, and savvy content creation are transforming outdoor adventures in ways you’ve never heard before.

On this episode, Don shares his incredible journey with host Brian Halbleib, from fishing in New York to leading marketing for one of the most trusted brands in outdoor gear. You'll discover how Frog Togs’ revolutionary waterproof technology and affordable pricing challenge the status quo, making top-tier gear accessible for every waterfowler. We break down the science behind their packable rain suits and cooling towels—how they keep you dry and comfortable in extreme conditions—and the tactical approach they take in product development to meet hunters' needs at every season.

You'll also get an inside look at the modern landscape of outdoor marketing—how user-generated content, social media innovation, and authentic storytelling are driving engagement. Don shares practical advice on how aspiring outdoor professionals can break into the industry, emphasizing the importance of community, local connections, and building genuine relationships with brands and reps. Plus, learn why supporting the right companies means more than just their products—it's about the people.

This episode is perfect for hunters, waterfowlers, and outdoor enthusiasts eager to understand how technological advances, marketing shifts, and personal connections are shaping future hunting experiences. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Don’s insights reveal the opportunities—and the critical mindset—needed to thrive in today’s outdoor industry.Tune in to discover how embracing innovation and authentic community can elevate your outdoor game, and why having fun and staying safe should always come first. If you care about gear that truly performs and stories that inspire, this episode is your go-to guide for navigating the evolving outdoor landscape

Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow waterfowl hunter.

Feel free to reach out to us: ⁠[email protected]⁠

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

⁠https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com⁠

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

⁠https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com⁠

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

⁠https://rigemright.com⁠

Flight Day Am-mo

⁠https://www.flightdayammo.com⁠

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

⁠https://aveshunting.com⁠

Retay USA

⁠https://www.retayusa.com⁠

frogg Toggs

⁠https://www.froggtoggs.com⁠

The Duck Hole & Company

⁠https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany⁠

Northern Duck Calls

⁠https://www.northernduckcalls.com⁠

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of The Migration Waterfowl Podcast, I’m joined by my good friend Greg Croxford at his cabin in southern Ohio. After spending the day planting rice along a remote creek, we sit down to talk about what it really takes to build a duck spot from scratch—and the risks that come with it.

Greg shares the story behind his property, originally purchased by his father, and what it meant to build the cabin together by hand using white oak logs from the land itself. Since his father’s passing, the property has taken on an even deeper meaning, and now we’re working to build something that will last for years to come.

We dive into the reality of planting duck food in water we can’t control, why rice can be effective in the right conditions, and the challenges that come with trying to create a consistent duck hunting spot. From scouting and habitat to long-term strategy, this episode is all about the process—and the uncertainty—of trying to do it the right way.

If everything goes right, this could turn into a great early season spot. If not… it’s all part of the journey.

🎬 Be sure to check out the full video from this trip on the Migration Waterfowl YouTube channel as part of The Migration Route series.

🔑 KEY TOPICS

• Building a duck hunting spot from scratch

• Planting Ozark rice for waterfowl habitat

• Hunting property history and legacy

• Scouting and habitat strategy

• Risks of planting in uncontrolled water

• Creating long-term duck hunting opportunities

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and share it with a buddy. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Migration Waterfowl YouTube channel to follow along with The Migration Route series.

Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected]

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Am-mo

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Retay USA

https://www.retayusa.com

frogg Toggs

https://www.froggtoggs.com

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl podcast, Brian sits down with Wisconsin waterfowl hunter and TFS Cable Works owner, Dylan Kletsch. Introduced through a mutual friend, Dylan brings a blue-collar, grassroots perspective to both hunting and building a business in the waterfowl space.

Dylan shares his journey into waterfowl hunting in Wisconsin—what it was like getting started, the lessons learned along the way, and how his approach has evolved over time. The conversation dives into his preferred hunting styles, the types of habitat he focuses on, and the species he encounters throughout the season in the upper Midwest.

The guys also break down the story behind TFS Cable Works—how it started, what goes into building a brand in the waterfowl industry, and what sets his products apart from the rest. If you’re interested in waterfowl hunting, entrepreneurship, or both, this episode delivers real-world insight from someone living it every day.

Topics discussed:

• Learning to waterfowl hunt in Wisconsin

• Habitat preferences and hunting strategies

• Species and seasonal experiences in the Midwest

• Starting a business in the waterfowl industry

• The story behind TFS Cable Works

• Standing out in a competitive gear market

Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow waterfowl hunter.

Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected]

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Am-mo

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Retay USA

https://www.retayusa.com

frogg Toggs

https://www.froggtoggs.com

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

15% off with code MW15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices