Upduck Podcast

From early-season teal and local wood ducks to the arrival of northern mallards, divers, and geese, The Migration Report tracks the pulse of Wisconsin’s waterfowl season. Tune in for insights on migration patterns, weather fronts, and habitat conditions that shape each week’s hunts. Whether you’re setting decoys in the Mississippi River bottoms or glassing a cattail marsh up north, The Migration Report is your go-to source for real-time updates across Wisconsin’s flyways. Each episode brings firsthand updates from hunters and contributors across the state—covering the Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, and Southwest regions—to keep you informed on where the birds are flying and how conditions are changing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duck season is officially underway, and the Upduck crew breaks down the highs and lows of early-season hunting across Wisconsin. From wood ducks and mallards working tight timber holes to gundogs making their first retrieves, this episode dives into what makes early hunts so unpredictable and exciting. We talk calling strategies, decoy setups, scouting cold fronts, and real-world retriever lessons from the marsh. Whether you’re chasing birds on public land or fine-tuning your duck dog for the season ahead, this episode brings a full dose of waterfowl hunting stories, gear talk, and migration insight. Tune in weekly for more duck hunting reports, gundog tips, and migration updates from across the Midwest. Check out the following links for more information & content. Instagram Facebook More About the Upduck Podcast Subscribe on Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Migration Report, a new weekly segment from the Upduck Podcast focused exclusively on Wisconsin duck hunting and waterfowl migration. Each episode brings firsthand updates from hunters and contributors across the state—covering the Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, and Southwest regions—to keep you informed on where the birds are flying and how conditions are changing. From early-season teal and local wood ducks to the arrival of northern mallards, divers, and geese, The Migration Report tracks the pulse of Wisconsin’s waterfowl season. Tune in for insights on migration patterns, weather fronts, and habitat conditions that shape each week’s hunts. Whether you’re setting decoys in the Mississippi River bottoms or glassing a cattail marsh up north, The Migration Report is your go-to source for real-time updates across Wisconsin’s flyways. For more information, check out the following links: Instagram Facebook More About the Upduck Podcast Wisconsin Waterfowl Association Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duck season is finally here, and on this week’s episode we’re diving into hunting prep, sleepless nights before opener, and—most importantly—how to keep your gun dogs safe and healthy in the field. With warm temps hitting the Wisconsin duck opener, the crew sits down with Dr. Libbey Schmitt, a veterinary surgeon at WVRC, to talk about working dogs, hunting dogs, and what hunters need to know about canine care during waterfowl season. From diet debates (raw vs. kibble), joint supplements, and managing heat stress, to the real-world injuries vets see most often in bird dogs—this episode is packed with insights every duck hunter, retriever owner, and outdoor enthusiast can use. Whether you run labs, pointers, or versatile hunting breeds, you’ll come away with practical vet-approved advice for keeping your dogs safe in the blind and the upland field. If you’re looking for a duck hunting podcast that blends real hunting stories, expert veterinary insight, and gundog care tips—this is the one you don’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Upduck Podcast, we sit down with George Parker of Bluebird Waterfowl to talk innovation, duck hunting gear, and how changing the way you use spinning wing decoys can completely transform your hunts. From crumble cookies to steelhead fishing stories, we eventually dive deep into the science of waterfowl behavior, the Animator, and the brand-new floating wings that are shaking up the duck hunting world. George explains how Bluebird Waterfowl is rethinking spinner wings with new shapes, sizes, and colors designed to match changing conditions in the marsh—just like bass fishermen change lures. We cover why wings that float are a game-changer, the importance of motion and sound in finishing ducks, and how hunters can adapt to smarter, late-season birds. If you’re passionate about duck hunting, spinning wing decoys, or just love hearing the stories and science behind waterfowl hunting innovation, this episode delivers. Whether you’re chasing teal in early September or mallards in the late season, you’ll want to hear how Bluebird Waterfowl is bringing a new edge to the hunt. As George mentioned, use the code "upduck" to get free shipping on any order from Bluebird Waterfowl.https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This duck hunting podcast episode dives into a real, in-the-field case study on retriever steadiness, breaking, and handler discipline. Host Tyler goes “Mattless and Jeff-less” and brings back Aaron Joos of Red Cedar Retrievers (Western Wisconsin) to unpack a quick early-season goose hunt with Nala, his 4.5-year-old Labrador with a Senior Hunter title. We walk through what triggered a break on geese, what corrections worked, why geese are “kryptonite” for some dogs, and how to build steadiness in real hunting conditions—dog blinds vs. stands, using a “sit” shot call, running one shell to force control, and choosing handler-first decisions over pulling the trigger. If you run labs for ducks or geese, train for hunt tests, or just want a steady, family-friendly gun dog that turns it on in the field, this conversation is packed with practical, hunt-day fixes you can use on opening morning. We also touch on balancing field performance with off-season training, troubleshooting with other dogs in the spread, and setting up controlled reps that translate to live birds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We made it—episode 100 of the Upduck Podcast! From Jeff’s pirate costume malfunctions to Matt’s first-ever banded teal, and Tyler’s teal hunt chaos with Wren, this milestone episode is packed with laughs, lookbacks, and plenty of duck hunting stories. We dive into memorable hunts, favorite guests, technical disasters (tornado warnings anyone), and answer listener questions on everything from bucket list birds to hunting with young dogs. Whether you’ve been here since episode one or just tuned in, this one’s a full spread of what makes Upduck, Upduck: duck hunting stories, upland talk, dogs that make every hunt better, and a whole lot of camaraderie. Grab a coffee—or a energy drink like Matt—and join us in celebrating 100 episodes of bird hunting banter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 99 of the Upduck Podcast is all about the highs, lows, and lessons learned as early duck hunting season kicks off. Jeff shares a hard PSA about losing an action camera to the river and a cellular trail cam that mysteriously stopped working on public land. From there, the crew recaps teal opener hunts across Wisconsin—slow flights, pressured marshes, and the importance of quick duck ID when teal and wood ducks are mixed in. We also cover gear talk including the new boat’s first hunt, dog-handling strategies, and why a Beretta A300 that actually cycles three shots can make all the difference. Beyond teal, dove hunting steals the spotlight as Matt admits he’s hooked after a pile of birds, wind-powered decoys, and a batch of poppers on the grill. The guys compare dove simplicity to teal season’s chaos, discuss public-land etiquette, and look ahead to the Youth Hunt and regular opener. With stories, strategy, and laughs, this episode is packed with duck hunting tips, gear insights, gun dog talk, and season-starting chaos—a perfect warm-up for what’s to come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teal and early goose seasons are here! In this Feathered Report, we break down what hunters need to know heading into opener — from the Duck Stamp Modernization Act to North Dakota’s brood survey numbers, new habitat stamps, and even pheasant updates. Quick hits, straight facts, and a dose of preseason excitement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With teal season on the horizon and episode 100 just around the corner, the Upduck crew sits down with Brian Glenzinski, Director of Conservation Programs for Ducks Unlimited’s Great Lakes Initiative. Brian brings a wealth of knowledge on everything from public land access and DU’s wetland restoration efforts to the critical importance of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program in Wisconsin. We dig deep into how funding, policy, and partnerships shape habitat conservation across the Midwest, including updates on major projects like Princess Point and Avon Bottoms. Brian also shares his backstory, his favorite hunting boat (spoiler: he owns a fleet), and how DU leverages science to put ducks in the sky and boots on public ground. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bruce Ross, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association (WWA), joins us just weeks away from retirement to reflect on his years of service and leadership within the waterfowl hunting community. We dive into WWA’s grassroots beginnings, its mission of advocacy, education, and habitat restoration, and how it's grown into one of the premier state-based waterfowl organizations in the country. Bruce also gives a full preview of this year’s Waterfowl Hunters Expo, including the fastest retriever competition, seminars, gear, family-friendly fun, and why this event has quickly become one of the top duck hunting expos in the nation. Topics Covered: Why the WWA matters and what your membership supports The evolving role of banquets, raffles, and grassroots community building Updates on the Sandhill crane hunt legislation The importance of local habitat restoration What to expect at this year’s Waterfowl Hunters Expo (gear, guns, dogs, and more) Bruce’s legacy and what’s next for him in retirement Want to learn more or get involved? Visit wisducks.org to join WWA Visit waterfowlhuntersexpo.com for expo info Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Harris of Blind Spot Outdoors joins the Upduck crew to share the wild journey from explosives to building some of the most in-demand waterfowl blinds in the country. From floating skids and sunken blinds to custom trailer setups with full kitchens (yes, cinnamon rolls included), Joe breaks down the evolution of his business, the passion that fuels it, and why the DIY spirit is alive and well in the duck hunting world.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The crew welcomes legendary duck club manager and waterfowl ambassador Rusty Creasey to the show. From growing up a mile from the Coca-Cola Woods to managing it for over two decades, Rusty shares how he turned a family legacy into a personal mission—educating, inspiring, and passing it on. We dive deep into flooded timber hunting, managing duck clubs, moist soil strategies, and the behind-the-scenes work that makes a successful season. Rusty opens up about career change, building a platform through authenticity, and why telling your mentors “thank you” might be the most important thing you ever do. We also talk calling, banded birds, and how one screenshot from a New York Times article turned Rusty into a national voice for waterfowl conservation.  Key Topics: Life after Coca-Cola Woods What it really takes to manage a duck club Calling ducks vs. reading ducks The banding program controversy Legacy, mentorship, and raising the next generation right Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week the guys kick back with an unscripted Q&A session that covers everything from upgrading boats with splash pods to the great debate over buying ammo by the box or by the case. They trade stories about brushing in blinds, getting ready for the Wisconsin Waterfowl Hunters Expo, and share fresh updates on new products hitting the field this fall. Plus, they tackle community questions like: Can your dog ever be too old for hunt tests? Is water-swatting ducks fair game? And what do you do with your bird dog when you’re not training or hunting? It’s a peek behind the curtain, full of laughs, hunting insights, and more than a few friendly jabs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The whole Upduck gang is finally back together, and they’re joined by a special guest: Ben Fretz from North Country Sporting Dogs up in Alberta, Canada. Ben dives deep into the world of Hungarian Wirehaired Vizslas—how this rare, versatile breed works in the uplands, waterfowl blinds, and even on big game. From the breed’s young history to its tiny worldwide numbers, he shares what it takes to develop a solid line, why cooperation is this breed’s superpower, and how they compare to German Wirehairs and smooth-coated Vizslas. Expect great stories about running dogs in the foothills, dealing with Canadian bureaucracy, crossing the border with pups, and chasing every critter Alberta has to offer.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The guys sit down with Tony Smith and Aaron from Red Cedar Retrievers to break down what it’s like running your very first hunt test. Tony shares how he went from barely knowing what a winger is to passing his first tests, what went right, what went sideways, and the rookie lessons learned along the way. From holding blind wrestling matches and the “junior scoop” trick to handling real flyers and sticking to standards, it’s an honest look at training a gun dog while balancing family life, T-ball games, and a full plate. If you’ve ever wondered what to expect when you step to the line for the first time — or just want to feel seen about your own hunt test screw-ups — this episode’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We take a new approach in this episode where we focus on real world hunting scenarios and how they translate (or don’t) to the training field. Matt and Tyler break down the disconnect between off-season drills and what actually happens in the marsh, with a focus on blind retrieves. From 20 yard real life retrieves to 100+ yard training setups, we unpack what your retriever is learning in the field, and how to recalibrate for the season ahead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Topics include a controversial land use proposal making its way through the Senate, an impressive upland bird season in the Midwest, and regulatory changes shaping the upcoming teal season in the Southeast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this jam-packed episode of the Upduck Podcast, we sit down with legendary waterfowl photographer and hunter Phil Kahnke to cover everything from epic boat blind strategies to balancing a camera with a shotgun. Phil dives into his early roots in southern Minnesota, how duck dogs changed his hunting style, and why concealment trumps everything. We also break down his calling philosophy, the “Super Bowl” of hunt tests, and how not to brush in a blind. Whether you're building your first duck boat or trying to shoot clean limits without sky-blasting the marsh, this is your masterclass in getting it done right. 📸 Plus: hot takes on duck photography, boat building, donut preferences, and why he's sticking with hot chocolate in the blind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We sit down with Keith Warnke, R3 Coordinator for the Midwest Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, to dive into the real issues shaping the future of hunting. From hunter recruitment and reactivation to funding shortfalls and the social image of hunters, Keith breaks it all down with clarity and conviction. We talk conservation, access, splash limits, and how the words and images we choose as hunters impact public perception. It’s not about trophies—it’s about staying relevant, having fun, and making sure the next generation wants to go along for the ride. Also: NA beers, coffee snobbery, and why hunting on a Packer Sunday might be your best bet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices