Ducks Unlimited Podcast

Hear how a carver–painter duo learned the craft together, built a collection, and now run one of Illinois’ longest‑running decoy shows.Host Katie Burke talks with John and Amy Sarver—carvers, collectors, and organizers of the Henry Decoy Show—about their path into waterfowl art, carving as a team, and growing a younger decoy community.John grew up on the Illinois River surrounded by hunters and collectors, while Amy came from an artistic family with early exposure to Mississippi River decoys. They share how Pat Gregory pushed them into carving, how painting and sculpting became a shared language, and why they’re committed to keeping regional traditions alive. The pair also reflect on shows, mentors, travel hunts, and how inspiration from wild birds translates into their work.Takeaways:How childhood exposure to Illinois and Mississippi River traditions shaped their collectingWhy Pat Gregory’s push got the whole family carving—and why their first decoys “weren’t round”How Amy’s art background fuels both painting and wildlife studyThe history, growth, and youth engagement of the 58‑year‑old Henry Decoy ShowHunting trips—from Alaska to California—that influence their carving and paintingWhat it’s like being featured carvers as a young team in the craft

Learn how pro waterfowl photographer Phil Kahnke scouts, sets up, and times the moment for jaw‑dropping duck images—and how it improves your hunting.Host Matt Harrison interviews photographer and lifelong hunter Phil Kahnke, known for striking waterfowl images and a methodical, hunt-first approach behind the lens.Kahnke traces his path from a hand‑me‑down film camera to modern digital work, explaining why his scouting mirrors a duck hunt and why perfect light, wind, and hide are non‑negotiable. He shares close calls on the ice, gear he won’t work without, and why hiding is the single most underrated factor for success—whether you carry a gun or a camera.Takeaways:The one moment that proved he could make magazine‑quality imagesWhy success is “10x harder than a duck hunt” and how he preparesHiding as the critical skill: getting birds below the horizonLight, wind, access, and backgrounds—how he chooses a spotPintails as the wariest, redheads as camera‑friendly, and why cans thrill himEthics in wildlife photography: wild birds, wild places, honest portrayalListen 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.

Discover how a Crisfield carver kept Chesapeake Bay decoy traditions alive—and what he learned from the legends.Host Katie Burke sits down with Oliver “Tuts” Lawson, a master decoy maker who grew up in the Ward brothers’ shop and spent decades shaping waterfowl art and heritage.From carving his first birds at age eight to repairing hunting decoys for Eastern Shore clubs, Lawson shares stories of mentorship, craftsmanship, and community. Hear how oil paints, raised wings, and open-door shops defined a culture—and why preserving tradition matters more than chasing ribbons.Takeaways:How Oliver Lawson learned carving and painting from Lem and Steve WardWhy oil paint creates depth and patina unmatched by modern acrylicsThe evolution from hunting decoys to ornamental birds—and why he returned to gunning styleHow early carvers shared techniques versus today’s secretive approachStories behind rare swans, auctions, and the founding of the Ward FoundationWhy tradition and accessibility keep decoy carving alive

Find out why mild weather and drought are reshaping waterfowl migration—and what hunters can do now.Hosts Matt Harrison and Dr. Jared Henson break down the latest Ducks Unlimited migration alerts across the Chesapeake Bay, New York, and the Central Flyway.This episode dives into why some regions are stacked with birds while others struggle, how weather patterns and habitat conditions influence duck and goose movement, and what late-season hunters should expect. From drought in the Chesapeake to ice challenges in New York and warm spells in the Dakotas, learn how these factors impact success and strategy.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.

Host Katie Burke visits Virginia carver Mark McNair, a lifelong artist shaped by Connecticut folk art, Easton’s decoy scene, and decades of hands‑on craft.In this conversation recorded at McNair’s marsh‑side home, he traces his path from Guilford, Connecticut to the Eastern Shore of Virginia, sharing mentors, influences, and the community that keeps carving vibrant. You’ll hear how form leads paint, why some heads go to the scrap pile, and how a celebrated swan decoy gathered its story over time. McNair also explains his “alchemist workshop” demos, opening the process to families and new carvers.The moment he asked “Who’s in charge here?” and took control of the carve.Why form should guide paint—and when paint distracts from the sculpture.How mentors (from Madeleine Shar to peers like Cameron McIntyre and Grayson Chesser) shape better work through real critique.Building decoys with raised wings and two‑part construction; borrowing ideas from Cobb, Shang Wheeler, Blair, and John English to solve design problems. The liberating lesson of throwing a failed piece in the wood stove and moving on.Community moments: Easton Waterfowl Festival, Barrier Island Center’s Meet the Carvers, and teaching with his son Ian.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.

Success doesn’t mean losing who you were or what you love.Country music artist Priscilla Block joins Ascend to talk about confidence, creativity, staying grounded, and how the outdoors plays a role in her life beyond the stage.This episode is about representation, inspiration, and showing younger women what’s possible.Topics include:Staying authentic as success growsBeing visible for the next generationBalancing creativity and real lifeFinding grounding outdoorsFollow Priscilla Block @PriscillaBlock on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X.Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world.Join the Ascend Instagram community at @duascend and http://www.ducks.org/ascend.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. Jared Henson and Jimbo Robinson welcome OnX Hunt marketing manager and Backwoods University host Lake Pickle. The crew dives into everything from habitat changes in the Mississippi Delta and evolving agricultural pressures to the latest OnX features like LiDAR and collaborative folders. Lake shares his journey from Mississippi kid to Primos videographer to OnX manager, and even unpacks the surprising roots of Santa’s flying reindeer. This one blends conservation insight, hunt strategy, mapping tech, family traditions, and plenty of laughs.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.

Matt Harrison and Dr. Mike Brasher welcome outdoor writer and DU ASCEND Host Bethany Beathard to discuss her MeatEater article on North America’s four waterfowl flyways. Bethany shares her background, research process, interviews with banders and guides, and insights into how hunting tactics differ across regions. Dr. Brasher expands on migration science, flyway councils, Adaptive Harvest Management, and why reliable data is critical for the future of waterfowl conservation.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.

Katie Burke sits down with renowned call maker Ronnie Turner at Reelfoot Lake to explore the rich history of duck call making, the evolution of craftsmanship, and why passing the tradition to the next generation matters. Ronnie shares stories from his Tennessee roots, his hunting adventures, and how he uses his craft to support meaningful causes.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.

Despite a recent Arctic plunge, the outlook for duck hunters through the end of the year isn’t exactly promising. Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Mandy Bailey, Chief Meteorologist at KTEN in Denison, Texas, and Skot Covert, Chief Meteorologist at 5News in Fayetteville/Fort Smith, Arkansas, to recap the latest winter weather outbreak and discuss what’s ahead as we close out the season. Early La Niña forecasts have largely held true, and that pattern appears to continue—warm and dry conditions dominate the southern Central and Mississippi Flyways, while frigid air grips the north. Out West, hunters and communities face repeated rounds of flooding rain, creating unique challenges for holiday hunts. Join us for expert insights on holiday weather trends and what they mean for your hunting plans.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 Matt Harrison and Jim Ronquest as they dive into all things ducks! This episode covers everything from migration timing and habitat conditions to motion decoys and calling etiquette. Learn how acorns impact duck numbers, why motion matters in decoys, and get pro-level calling tips for tough birds.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 Matt Harrison and special guest Guy Halbert as they dive into Arkansas’ first split of duck season. From unexpected warm weather and mosquito-filled mornings to big pushes of birds as of late, Guy shares insights on hunting conditions, water levels, and the impact of acorn abundance on wildlife. Plus, hear an unforgettable story about a young hunter’s first banded mallard.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.

Host Katie Burke sits down with carver Cameron McIntyre in his Virginia studio to discuss his upcoming solo auction, Portrait of a Farm, presented by Guyette & Deeter. Cameron shares insights into the artistry and methodology behind his decoys, while also opening up about the collection of paintings featured in the auction—his largest showing to date. The conversation explores his history with landscape painting, the inspirations that fuel his work, and how this milestone event blends tradition, craftsmanship, and personal vision.Check out our previous conversation with Cameron here:Ep 353, Collector Series: Master Decoy Carver, Cameron McIntyreListen 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, we dive into the world of custom duck calls with Farrel Charpentier, a maker whose roots run deep in South Louisiana. Hear how he transitioned from offshore work to call making, why he chose the Arkansas-style call, and the challenges of perfecting sound and design. Plus, insights into Reelfoot Lake’s unique call maker gathering and the camaraderie that defines this craft.https://www.facebook.com/farrel.charpentier/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.

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.