On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl podcast, your host Brian Halbleib talks with Rusty Fix, a seasoned waterfowl hunter from Missouri. Rusty shares his experiences in the fire service and how it affords him ample time for waterfowl hunting and habitat management. He discusses the dynamics of waterfowl hunting, including the importance of habitat management, the impact of weather on migration patterns, and the strategies he employs during hunting season. Rusty emphasizes the significance of understanding pressure in hunting and reflects on the challenges faced by hunters in recent years due to changing conditions. The conversation provides insights into the life of a dedicated waterfowl hunter and the evolving landscape of duck hunting. Rusty also discusses the various factors affecting duck migrations and waterfowl hunting, emphasizing the impact of weather, pressure, and misconceptions about flooded corn. He explains how these elements interact to influence duck populations and waterfowl hunting success, particularly in Missouri. The discussion also touches on the role of conservation efforts in maintaining healthy duck habitats and populations.

Takeaways:

• Rusty has been in the fire service for over 15 years.
• He manages family wetlands that have been in the family for over 100 years.
• Rusty splits his hunting time evenly between public and private lands.
• He emphasizes the importance of habitat management for waterfowl.
• Weather significantly impacts duck migration patterns and hunting success.
• Rusty believes in giving hunting areas a seven-day rest to improve success rates.
• He actively scouts for ducks using technology like OnX.
• The duck population has been declining, affecting hunting experiences.
• Rusty shares that pressure from hunters can impact duck behavior.
• He reflects on the importance of community and family in the hunting experience.
• Weather significantly influences duck migration patterns.
• Flooded corn is not a major factor in stopping migrations.
• Pressure from hunters can lead to ducks avoiding certain areas.
• Ice eaters are not effective in attracting ducks once ice is thick enough.
• Missouri's conservation areas play a vital role in supporting duck populations.
• Ducks prefer refuge areas where they feel safe from hunting pressure.
• The misconception of short-stopping ducks often oversimplifies the issue.
• Moist soil is more beneficial for ducks than flooded corn.
• Duck hunting pressure varies significantly between states like Missouri and Arkansas.
• Conservation efforts have historically supported duck populations in Missouri.
   

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