On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes back George Parker, owner of Blue Bird Waterfowl. They discuss the past waterfowl season and how an injury sidelined George for much of it. They also talk about George's innovative products, including the Animator, and new wing designs for spinning wing decoys. They discuss the challenges of running a growing business while maintaining the passion for hunting. George also shares insights on duck behavior and the importance of adapting hunting strategies to improve success rates. George and Brian also discuss innovative techniques and technologies in waterfowl hunting, and how to mix up your tactics based on environmental changes and animal behavior. They talk about the science behind spinning wing decoys, the introduction of new products like the animator and the significance of customer education and feedback in enhancing hunting experiences. They wrap up discussing the future of waterfowl hunting gear and the community's response to these innovations. Learn more about George here: https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

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Blue Bird Waterfowl

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And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

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On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib talks with Ben Meyers, owner of Flight Day Ammunition. They discuss how Ben got started in waterfowl hunting and his earliest memories of the hunt. Ben talks about his family property in Missouri that he grew up duck hunting on and the management of the habitat he still does there to this day. He also discusses the challenges of starting an ammunition company, how he has scaled it and the nuances between bismuth and steel shot. Ben offers insights into the ammunition market, including the rising costs of bismuth and the impact of Chinese production. Ben shares some memorable hunting experiences along with common mistakes new hunters make. They also discuss the importance of patterning your shotgun and the ongoing 'velocity war' in ammunition marketing. You can learn more about Ben and Flight Day Ammo here: https://flightdayammo.com

Takeaways:

• Ben Myers is the owner of Flight Day Ammunition.
• He has been waterfowl hunting since he was nine years old.
• Memorable hunts often involve family and friends.
• Private hunting spots offer advantages over public land.
• New hunters often make mistakes with decoy and call usage.
• Reloading ammunition can lead to more reliable rounds.
• Bismuth is superior to steel in terms of density and performance.
• The cost of Bismuth has significantly increased due to market factors.
• China controls the majority of the Bismuth market.
• Steel ammunition can be improved with better patterns and lower velocities.
   

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Migration Waterfowl Store

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Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib talks with Max Zaruba, a passionate duck hunter and veteran, about his journey into the world of duck hunting, the techniques he employs, and the importance of community support through his platform, Hardwater Freaks. Max shares insights on duck migration patterns, the importance of scouting, and the challenges of hunting in Wisconsin. He discusses his passion for hunting the Mississippi River and the challenges that come with it. He talks about the importance of a well concealed blind and how much time and effort he puts into his hides. He also breaks down his approach to reading the weather during the season, specifically how winds affect and sometimes stop migrating ducks. He emphasizes the significance of giving back to veterans and youth through fishing trips and community events, highlighting the need for engagement in the sport to ensure its future. The conversation also touches on memorable hunting experiences and the camaraderie that comes with the sport. You can learn more about Max here: https://hardwaterfreaks.com

Takeaways:

• Max Zaruba is known as an ice fisherman and duck hunter in Wisconsin.
• He started duck hunting with the wrong crowd but learned valuable lessons.
• Duck hunting has become a major part of his life, overshadowing deer hunting.
• Max emphasizes the importance of scouting for food sources and duck numbers.
• He believes in giving back to veterans and kids through his platform, Hardwater Freaks.
• Weather patterns, especially wind, significantly affect duck migration and hunting success.
• Wisconsin offers extensive public land access for duck hunting without strict regulations.
• Max's community efforts have raised over $100,000 for veterans and kids since 2015.
• He shares a memorable story about a challenging duck hunt that turned rewarding.
• Max encourages hunters to adapt and find less pressured areas for better experiences.
  
   

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

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://tinyurl.com/MigrationWaterfowlStore

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib talks with Gaines Slade. Gaines shares his journey from a non-hunting background to becoming a passionate outdoorsman and entrepreneur in the hunting industry. Gaines discusses his experiences in outdoor videography, the transition to waterfowl hunting, and the development of Golden Millet as a key product for attracting ducks. He provides insights on habitat setup for landowners, the benefits of Golden Millet, and shares his recent hunting adventures, emphasizing the importance of conservation and supporting the hunting community. You can learn more about Golden Millet here: https://www.goldenmilletseed.com

Takeaways

• Gaines Slade's journey into hunting began at age 16.
• He transitioned from outdoor videography to the hunting industry.
• Golden Millet is a versatile product for attracting waterfowl.
• The importance of understanding local hunting conditions and needs.
• Gaines emphasizes the need for proper habitat setup for landowners.
• He shares experiences from his recent grizzly bear hunt in the Yukon.
• Customer service and feedback are crucial for product success.
• Gaines encourages hunters to support conservation efforts.
• The significance of planning and budgeting for hunting habitats.
• Hunting is a community effort that requires active participation.

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

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl
 

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://tinyurl.com/MigrationWaterfowlStore

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes back Jake Maxwell. Jake is the host of the Chasing Green YouTube channel and he also does some waterfowl hunting guiding. They discuss the challenges of summer duck hunting preparation, the ethics of public land hunting, and the changing dynamics of duck migration patterns. Jake also shares his experiences with traveling for duck hunting, the significance of gear selection and preparation for the season, and the importance of adapting tactics for stale birds. They also touch on the role of faith in hunting and the hunting community, and how that builds a different level of camaraderie in the sport. Jake also offers practical travel tips for hunting in Canada. They wrap up with reflections on the future of duck hunting and the importance of sharing the passion with others. You can learn more about Jake here: https://www.youtube.com/@ChasingGreen

Takeaways:

• Jake Maxwell emphasizes the importance of improving hunting ethics among public land hunters.
• The conversation highlights the changing migration patterns of ducks and the impact of weather on hunting success.
• Jake shares his experiences of hunting in various states and the importance of adapting tactics based on local conditions.
• The significance of preparation and gear selection for a successful waterfowl season is discussed.
• Jake reflects on the role of faith in hunting and the community aspect of the sport.
• Traveling for duck hunting can be an adventure, and Jake encourages hunters to explore new areas.
• The importance of being adaptable and recognizing when to change tactics during hunts is emphasized.
• Jake discusses the challenges of hunting stale birds and the need for patience.
• The episode highlights the importance of sharing the passion for hunting with others, especially through guiding.
• Jake shares practical travel tips for hunting in Canada, including navigating border regulations.

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

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://tinyurl.com/MigrationWaterfowlStore

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib talks with Drew Smith, an active duty Green Beret and passionate waterfowl hunter. They discuss Drew's journey from Louisiana to North Carolina, the allure of waterfowl hunting and the importance of mentorship in recruiting new hunters. Drew shares his experiences in the field, cooking techniques for waterfowl and the challenges of transitioning between different flyways. He also talks about his venture into creating a waterfowl clothing line, focusing on affordable, high-quality gear that enhances the hunting experience. The conversation highlights the camaraderie and culture surrounding waterfowl hunting, emphasizing the need for community and feedback in the hunting world. You can learn more about Drew here: https://www.canardswaterfowl.com

Takeaways:

• Drew's journey from Louisiana to North Carolina highlights the diverse experiences in waterfowl hunting.
• The importance of mentorship in recruiting new hunters is crucial for the future of the sport.
• Cooking and sharing meals from hunts enhances the hunting experience and builds camaraderie.
• Drew emphasizes the significance of understanding bird behavior and pressure in different hunting regions.
• The transition from the Mississippi Flyway to the Atlantic Flyway presents unique challenges and learning opportunities.
• Drew's passion for waterfowl hunting is evident in his storytelling and experiences.
• The need for affordable, high-quality waterfowl clothing is a gap Drew aims to fill with his brand.
• Creating a positive hunting experience is essential for retaining new hunters.
• Drew's experiences in the military influence his approach to outdoor gear and clothing design.
• The importance of community feedback in developing new products is a key focus for Drew's brand.

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

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://tinyurl.com/MigrationWaterfowlStore

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib talks with his friend Elliott Snider. They discuss their recent experiences at Meyers Family Farm in Missouri and the boat trip they took on the Kansas River. Meyers Family Farm is a duck hunting property managed by Ben Meyers, owner of Flight Day Ammunition, and some of his family members. Brian and Elliott talk about Elliott’s experiences touring and hunting Meyers Family Farm last season, the new duck hole they helped Ben cut into a section of flooded timber on the property and the fun they had shooting clay targets after the work was done. They also talk about the unique hunting techniques they employ in places like private ground with flooded timber in Missouri and the differences compared to other hunting locations they are used to. They also get into shooting practice, the benefits of bismuth ammo, and preparations for a float trip that Elliott was hosting through his Freelance Duck Hunting YouTube Channel and his North American Waterfowler Podcast. Elliott offers insights on dog training for hunting tests and they discuss goals for the upcoming hunting season. The conversation wraps up with reflections on friendships and the importance of Christian fellowship. You can learn more about Elliott here: https://www.youtube.com/c/FreelanceDuckHunting

Takeaways

• The Myers Family Farm is a magical place for hunting.
• Flooded timber with acorns attracts ducks effectively.
• Shooting practice is essential for building confidence.
• Bismuth ammo allows for more comfortable long-range shots.
• Float trips provide a unique outdoor experience.
• Dog training is crucial for successful hunting tests.
• Setting goals can enhance the hunting experience.
• Community and friendships enrich the hunting journey.
• Tracking hunting stats can improve performance.
• Christian fellowship adds depth to outdoor experiences.

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

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://tinyurl.com/MigrationWaterfowlStore

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:
 

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib talks with Rhett Strickland, waterfowl hunter and co-founder of AVES hunting gear. Rhett shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Georgia to becoming an avid waterfowl hunter. He discusses the challenges of finding quality hunting gear, the culture of waterfowl hunting in Georgia, and the importance of family in his hunting experiences. He also talks about the typical waterfowl season in Georgia and some memorable hunting stories. Rhett discusses the innovative designs and development process behind AVES hunting gear. He emphasizes the importance of functionality and comfort in outdoor apparel, sharing insights into the challenges faced during product development and the vision for the brand. He also covers the various product lines, including the Feather Light Series, Stratum Series, Drifter Series and the Bering Series, highlighting the commitment to quality and performance in extreme conditions. Rhett also discusses the performance of his hunting gear in extreme cold conditions, emphasizing the innovative insulation technology that keeps hunters warm and dry. He highlights the versatility of his gear, designed to adapt to changing weather conditions, and shares insights into the accessories that enhance the waterfowl hunting experience. He also addresses common challenges faced by hunters and how his designs aim to solve these issues. He wraps up with a look at upcoming products and community engagement through events and promotions. Learn more about AVES here: https://aveshunting.com

Takeaways:

• Rhett Strickland grew up in a small town in Georgia, deeply rooted in outdoor activities.
• The idea for AVES was born from a desire for better hunting gear.
• Waterfowl hunting became a passion for Rhett after a memorable experience with wood ducks.
• Rhett emphasizes the importance of family in hunting, especially with his son.
• The culture of waterfowl hunting in Georgia is growing, with more people getting involved.
• A typical waterfowl season in Georgia features a mix of migratory and local ducks.
• Rhett shares insights on the challenges of finding good hunting spots in Georgia.
• Memorable hunting experiences often involve family and cultural exchanges.
• The design process for AVES gear focuses on high-quality materials and innovative designs.
• Rhett's approach to gear design involves looking beyond the hunting industry for inspiration.
• Rhett Strickland is focused on innovative designs for hunting gear.
• The development of AVES products takes time to ensure quality.
• Balancing functionality and comfort is crucial in outdoor apparel.
• The brand aims to create a strong first impression with its products.
• Rhett emphasizes the importance of solving problems in product design.
• The journey of launching AVES involved significant personal sacrifices.
• The feather light series is designed for warmer hunting seasons.
• The Drifter series offers versatility for various hunting conditions.
• Rhett's experience in extreme weather informs product development.
• The brand's vision extends beyond waterfowl to all bird hunting.
• I prefer not to have any gloves on.
• The fabrics on that are 100% waterproof.
• This really is some good gear.
• If you get cold easily, you will not get cold in that system.
• It's almost waterfowl proof.
• You have everything in the closet, ready to go.
• It's built to save you money in the long run.
• We'll have specials and deals going on there.
• Get him something good.
• I appreciate you having me on.

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

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://tinyurl.com/MigrationWaterfowlStore

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com
 

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib talks with Brian Melvin. Brian is an avid waterfowl hunter from New Jersey. They discuss the unique hunting seasons and regulations in New Jersey, Brian’s journey of becoming a self-taught hunter, and the increasing black duck population in the area. Brian also shares memorable experiences from his duck hunts, the importance of scouting, and the unique challenges of flooded timber hunting. They talk about the community aspect of hunting in Brian’s area and the various habitats that support waterfowl in New Jersey. They dive into the intricacies of waterfowl hunting, emphasizing the importance of scouting and tracking harvest numbers. Brian shares insights into the cultural traditions of waterfowl hunting in New Jersey, the challenges and joys of filming hunts, and the balance between hunting and capturing footage. Brian also reflects on the evolution of his brand, Timber Life Outdoors, and his aspirations for expanding his YouTube channel while maintaining a focus on quality content. They discuss their experiences and challenges over the waterfowl hunting season. They share personal insights about hunting trips, the importance of courtesy among hunters, and the excitement of upcoming adventures. They also touch on memorable hunting stories and the significance of having a hunting dog.

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

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://tinyurl.com/MigrationWaterfowlStore
 

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:
 

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10
 

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com

Takeaways:

• Brian Melvin is an avid waterfowl and bow hunter from New Jersey.
• He started hunting without a family background in it, learning through experience.
• The hunting seasons in New Jersey vary, with specific regulations for different species.
• Waterfowl hunting requires significant scouting and knowledge of bird migration patterns.
• Brian's first duck hunt was a memorable experience that sparked his passion for waterfowl hunting.
• The black duck population has been increasing in New Jersey over the years.
• Flooded timber hunting is a unique experience available in New Jersey, though not as common as in the South.
• The use of tools like Argo can enhance hunting experiences by providing access to hard-to-reach areas.
• Hunting habitats include marshes, rivers, and lakes, each offering different challenges and opportunities.
• Brian emphasizes the importance of community and sharing the hunting experience with others.
• Scouting is crucial for successful waterfowl hunting.
• Tracking harvest numbers helps understand hunting success.
• Group dynamics enhance the hunting experience.
• New Jersey has rich waterfowl traditions, especially in coastal areas.
• Timber Life Outdoors was born from a passion for filming hunts.
• Filming can be a double-edged sword in hunting communities.
• Solo filming presents unique challenges for hunters.
• Investing in quality gear significantly improves filming results.
• Future goals include expanding the YouTube channel with high-quality content.
• Building community through shared hunting experiences is invaluable.
• Hunting seasons can create personal conflicts for hunters.
• Planning trips is essential for maximizing hunting experiences.
• Waterfowl hunting presents unique challenges that require teamwork.
• Courtesy among hunters is crucial for a positive experience.
• Communication can help avoid conflicts in hunting areas.
• Memorable hunting stories often involve unexpected situations.
• Having a hunting dog enhances the hunting experience.
• Personal preferences in gear can vary widely among hunters.
• Sharing experiences can foster a sense of community among hunters.
• Respecting others in the field leads to better hunting outcomes.

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl podcast, your host Brian Halbleib will be talking with Phil Christian from Ontario, Canada. They discuss Phil’s journey into waterfowl hunting, his experiences with the Punisher Waterfowl podcast, and insights into the duck hunting culture in Ontario. They also talk about hunting techniques, preferences, and setup strategies. Phil covers his hunting travels and adventures, including trips to Saskatchewan and Arkansas, and the challenges of waterfowl hunting outside of his local, familiar areas. They discuss the realities of waterfowl hunting, including the challenges and rewards of hunting vacations, reflections on the previous season, and the essential skills needed for success. They talk about the importance of scouting, concealment, and understanding duck behavior across different regions. They also touch on personal hunting experiences, local goose populations, and the journey into using sub-gauges for hunting. They talk about shotgun gauges and some advantages of using a 20 gauge for waterfowl hunting. They discuss the importance of understanding ammunition specifications and the challenges of sourcing ammunition. They also touch on memorable hunting experiences, future plans for hunting, and the importance of conservation efforts that improve waterfowl populations.

Takeaways

• Phil started hunting at the age of seven.
• He is part of the Punisher Waterfowl podcast.
• Duck hunting culture in Ontario is unique compared to the U.S.
• Phil prefers small water duck hunting for its intimacy.
• He emphasizes the importance of scouting and setup in hunting.
• Limits don't define a successful hunting day for Phil.
• He enjoys the camaraderie of hunting trips with friends.
• Phil uses technology for scouting, including maps and fish finders.
• He has traveled for hunting in Saskatchewan and Arkansas.
• Phil values the experience of being outdoors over the number of birds harvested.
• Hunting vacations can be more work than leisure.
• Scouting is crucial for successful waterfowl hunting.
• Concealment and movement are key to fooling birds.
• Personal experiences shape hunting techniques.
• Duck behavior varies significantly by region.
• Local conditions affect goose populations and hunting success.
• Shooting at close range enhances the hunting experience.
• Patterning your gun is essential for effective shooting.
• Sub-gauges can be effective for waterfowl hunting.
• Understanding local regulations can enhance hunting opportunities.
• Shooting sub gauges like the 20 gauge offers minimal recoil and faster follow-up shots.
• Pellet count is crucial in understanding shotgun effectiveness.
• The availability of ammunition varies significantly between 12 and 20 gauges.
• Engaging in local conservation efforts can enhance waterfowl populations.
• Personal experiences in hunting can lead to greater accuracy and success.
• Starting a local chapter for conservation can foster community involvement.
• Memorable hunting experiences often involve unique encounters with wildlife.
• Exploring new hunting spots can lead to exciting discoveries.
• Sharing knowledge about hunting gear and techniques can benefit others.
• Building connections within the hunting community enriches the experience.

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

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok:

@migrationwaterfowl

Migration Waterfowl Store

https://tinyurl.com/MigrationWaterfowlStore

Migration Waterfowl is presented by:

Blue Bird Waterfowl

https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com

And also brought to you by these fine partners:

The Duck Hole & Company

https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany

Rig’Em Right Outdoors

https://rigemright.com

Flight Day Ammunition

https://www.flightdayammo.com

10% off with code MW10

Aves Hunting

https://aveshunting.com

Northern Duck Calls

https://www.northernduckcalls.com