Ducks Unlimited Podcast

This Thanksgiving, we’re thankful for wetlands, waterfowl, and YOU—our Ducks Unlimited family. Join us for a festive episode featuring gear recommendations, lively debates, and cherished holiday memories. Together, we’ll celebrate the traditions that make hunting and conservation so special. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at DU!DUCKS UNLIMITED GIFT GUIDEListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited Podcast, Matt Harrison and Nathan Ratchford dive deep into the world of sporting dogs with Karl Gunzer from Purina. The discussion covers why fat and protein matter for working dogs, how to prepare your dog for hunting season, common mistakes first-time dog owners make, and cold weather precautions to keep your dog safe. Karl also shares stories from his years in field trials and offers advice for building a strong bond with your dog. This is an informative and engaging episode for anyone passionate about hunting and dog care.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Join hosts Jerad Henson and John Gordon as they welcome Craig Verhage, aka the BBQ Ninja, for a mouthwatering episode full of duck camp cooking tips. From duck tacos with a game-changing green sauce to panko-crusted duck pasta and southern-style duck and grits, Craig shares simple, delicious recipes anyone can try. Plus, hear stories from duck camp, tips for handling wild game, and how to make duck sausage, tamales, and even ramen. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just love good food, this episode is packed with flavor and fun.Recipe Ideas Mentioned:Duck Tacos with lime-cilantro-pineapple slaw and jalapeno-guacamole green saucePanko-Crusted Duck Pasta with garlic and olive oil pastaDuck and Grits using instant grits (butter and bacon flavors) and Cajun seasoningDuck Egg Rolls with miso slaw and Japanese BBQ sauceDuck Ramen with fresh or frozen veggies and sliced grilled duckDuck Tamales with chipotle seasoning and shredded duckDuck Sausage including breakfast sausage and chorizoDuck Parm with red sauce and melted cheesePutake: slow-cooked duck with garlic, onion, rosemary, and red wine served over riceBoudin and Venison Sausages as camp staplesGrilled Duck Popper Tips for avoiding overcookingFollow Craig Verhage (@thebbqninja) on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter/X, and Facebook for more wild game cooking inspiration.SPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Katie Burke sits down with callmaker Doug Nelson at the Reelfoot Waterfowl Festival to explore the deep traditions of custom callmaking, the evolution of waterfowl hunting, and the vibrant community that gathers each year at this historic event.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Join guest hosts Kayci Messerly and Katie Tucker as they travel to the University of Texas at El Paso for a deep dive into duckDNA with Dr. Phil Lavretsky. Together, they explore how hunters are driving groundbreaking genetic discoveries and uncovering the potential causes of unique plumage characteristics in waterfowl. They also reveal the cutting-edge work happening inside Dr. Lavretsky's lab to unlock genetic mysteries shaping waterfowl today.duckDNA.comListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation. Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Join Dr. Mike Brasher and his long-time friends and colleagues—Dr. Mark Vrtiska, Dr. Brian Davis, and Dr. Scott Stephens—for an entertaining discussion on how daily bag limits shape hunter expectations, influence waterfowl behavior, and ultimately affect hunter satisfaction. From friendly banter to hilarious hunting stories, this episode investigates the complex interplay between regulations and human psychology, while considering why a “perfect bag limit” may be more elusive that it seems. The group also imagines innovative field experiments, brainwave studies, and alternative bag limit structures that could offer fresh perspectives on this topic.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Tune in as Dr. Mike Brasher & Dr. Jerad Henson team up with meteorologists Chance Gotsch and Scott Covert. Together, they break down current weather patterns, drought conditions, and long-range forecasts—including the impact of La Niña—on waterfowl migration and habitat. Whether you're hunting in the Mid-South or tracking birds across the flyways, this episode offers expert insights to help you plan your season.We'll discuss:  Seasonal weather shifts and how they impact waterfowl migrationTips for tracking the best hunting conditions in your area Expert predictions on what the next few weeks hold for duck hunters  Don’t miss this unique blend of meteorological expertise and hunting wisdom!Our Special Guests: Chance Gotsch – Meteorologist for ABC17, Columbia, MO  IG: [@chanceabc17]  / chanceabc17  Skot Covert – Chief Meteorologist for 5News, Fayetteville/Fort Smith, AR  IG: [@skotwx]  / skotwx SPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Wildlife artist Jim Hautman joins host Katie Burke to share the story behind his remarkable seven wins in the Federal Duck Stamp Contest. From growing up in an artistic Minnesota family to hunting WPA wetlands with his brothers, Jim reflects on the influence of his parents, how hunting shaped his art, and the friendly rivalry that continues to inspire the Hautman legacy.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

For this special Halloween episode, the Ducks Unlimited Podcast trades studio mics for a campfire under the stars. With s’mores in hand and coyotes howling in the distance, the crew shares some of the creepiest stories ever submitted by listeners. Whether it’s a mysterious creature crawling through cornfields, a haunted farmhouse door, or a five-foot caterpillar in the woods, these tales are sure to give you chills. Tune in for laughs, scares, and a whole lot of outdoor storytelling.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

The Duck Den comes alive at DUX 2025! Jimbo Robinson hosts an all-star crew—Beau Brooks, Justin Martin, and Maggie Williams—for an unforgettable roundtable in Memphis. Hear their stories about the early days, favorite hunts, mentorship moments, and a few surprises—including a big announcement about Willie Robertson. It’s waterfowl heritage, heart, and humor all in one episode.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Dr. Phil Lavretsky (UTEP) and DU’s Kayci Messerly and Ty Sharrow to announce the return of duckDNA and share new features and mysterious discoveries from this hunter-powered initiative. This season also brings a major milestone—the launch of the 2025 Mossy Oak Waterfowl Conservation Stamp that will directly support duckDNA. Mossy Oak’s Daniel Haas makes a surprise appearance to explain how this collaboration connects art and science to the conservation of our wild ducks. Tune in to learn how hunters are shaping the future of waterfowl science and management—one tongue at a time.duckDNA.comListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

As duck season kicks off across the Central Flyway, cohosts Matt Harrison and Dr. Jerad Henson dive into the latest report from DU Migration Editor John Pollmann. They discuss local duck production, shifting weather patterns (specifically in the Central Flyway / North Dakota), and how scouting can make or break your next hunt. Get expert insight on what’s happening up north and what it means for hunters further south.READ HERE: Migration Alert: North Dakota Hunters Wait on Weather and MigrationSIGN UP FOR MIGRATION ALERTS HERE!Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

On this episode, Dr. Scott Stephens joins Dr. Mike Brasher for an update on habitat and hunting conditions across the prairies, although the report isn't as upbeat as hoped! Fields remain dusty and wetlands remain dry, but ducks are still available for shooting. Scott also discusses his plans for future duck and pheasant hunts and shares his thoughts on misinformation around Canadian duck harvest, the origin of super moons, physiology of duck fat, winter weather, and the importance of being on the target! A rare episode that offers more questions than answers—join us for an entertaining and wide-ranging discussion of ducks, dogs, hunting, and more.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Back by popular demand, Ducks Unlimited and Expanded Perspectives reunite for a chilling Halloween special that dives deep into the unknown. From eerie screams in the dark to invisible watchers in the timber, these true outdoor encounters will make you think twice before heading into the woods alone.Check out EXPANDED PERSPECTIVES!Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Hosts Dr. Mike Brasher and Chris Jennings dive into North America’s most populous waterfowl species in this episode. Brasher and Jennings expand the mallard conversation into its entire life cycle, preferred habitats, and even close relatives. This is the all-things mallard episode you’ve been waiting for. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

The Great Lakes are gearing up for fall migration! Ducks Unlimited’s Waterfowl 360 Great Lakes migration contributor Jay Anglin joins host Matt Harrison for a timely update on what hunters can expect this season. From spotty drought conditions to wood duck surges and early pintail movement, Jay breaks down the latest waterfowl activity across the region and shares what it could mean for your next hunt.SIGN UP FOR MIGRATION ALERTS HERE!Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

DU biologist Madie McFarland and Mississippi landowner Mike Bartlett join host Dr. Jerad Henson to discuss Ducks Unlimited’s Flyway Forests program—an innovative effort to restore bottomland hardwood forests across the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. They explore how carbon markets, conservation partnerships, and private landowners are transforming landscapes to benefit wildlife, waterfowl, and future generations.To learn more about the Flyway Forests programs, CLICK HERE!Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

What connects natural history, conservation, and fine art? Katie Burke explores this question with sculptor Walter Matia. From his early fascination with museums to decades of experience sculpting wildlife, Walter discusses the importance of mentors, the challenge of capturing animals in motion, and why his work resonates so deeply with hunters and nature lovers alike.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

In this episode, Dr. Jerad Henson welcomes Ich Stewart, founder of the Public Timber Project, to share how a group of Arkansas duck hunters turned frustration into action. What started with a simple boat ramp cleanup has grown into a multi-state grassroots conservation movement giving public land hunters a voice, building community, and addressing issues like access, habitat pressure, and hunting culture. From partnering with researchers and agencies to mentoring new hunters, the Public Timber Project is reshaping how waterfowlers care for the resource and each other.PUBLIC TIMBER PROJECT WEBSITE!PUBLIC TIMBER PROJECT on Facebook!Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

From Minnesota duck hunts to winning the Federal Duck Stamp, Scot Storm shares his story with Katie Burke, offering insight into the creative process, the emotional power of art, and his life as a commissioned wildlife artist.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.