Prairie Conditions & Duck Predictions | 2026 Habitat Update

Prairie Conditions & Duck Predictions | 2026 Habitat Update

JOIN US AT THE 2026 DUCKS UNLIMITED EXPO! [https://www.duckexpo.com/] July 31 - August 2 at the RENASANT CONVENTION CENTER in Memphis, TN  What will the 2026 duck season look like? It all starts on the prairies. In this annual Ducks Unlimited tradition, host Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Dr. Scott Stephens and Dr. Steve Adair to break down current habitat conditions across the Prairie Pothole Region and make early predictions for the breeding population survey. The conversation highlights a familiar but important theme: variability. While parts of the Canadian prairies have benefited from recent precipitation, other regions — particularly across portions of the U.S. prairies — remain dry.  The group discusses how timing of moisture plays a critical role in duck production, noting that late-season rainfall may improve brood survival but won’t necessarily influence where birds settle to nest. They also revisit last year’s conditions, including below-average pond counts and moderate production, which could translate into slightly lower breeding populations this spring.  The episode concludes with their annual “prognostications” for pond counts and duck numbers and a reminder that the prairie landscape continues to drive waterfowl success across North America. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast [https://www.ducks.org/DUPodcast] Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org SPONSORS: 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.

Texas Coast Wetlands: Habitat, Migration & Conservation in Action (Ep 787)

JOIN US AT THE 2026 DUCKS UNLIMITED EXPO! [https://www.duckexpo.com/] July 31 - August 2 at the RENASANT CONVENTION CENTER in Memphis, TN  The Texas Gulf Coast is one of the most important — and most dynamic — waterfowl landscapes in North America. In this episode, host Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Taylor Abshire, Ducks Unlimited Regional Biologist, to explore how wetlands along the Texas coast support waterfowl across the entire annual cycle — from early fall migration to late spring departure. The conversation highlights the unique nature of this region, where birds like blue‑winged teal may begin arriving as early as August and still be present well into May. That extended timeline creates both opportunities and challenges for wetland managers trying to balance habitat for migrating birds, wintering waterfowl, and resident species like mottled ducks. Throughout the episode, a central theme emerges: successful conservation on the Texas coast depends on working lands and the people who manage them. From water timing and vegetation management to infrastructure and long-term habitat design, landowners play a critical role in maintaining the wetlands that waterfowl depend on. This episode offers a comprehensive look at how science, partnerships, and on-the-ground management come together to sustain one of the continent’s most important waterfowl regions. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast [https://www.ducks.org/DUPodcast] Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org SPONSORS: 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.

DUX SERIES: Purina Pro Plan & the Hunting Dog: Performance, Science & DU Partnership (Ep 786)

JOIN US AT THE 2026 DUCKS UNLIMITED EXPO! [https://www.duckexpo.com/] July 31 - August 2 at the RENASANT CONVENTION CENTER in Memphis, TN  Behind every great hunt is a great dog — and behind that dog is the right nutrition. In this episode of the DUX Series, host Jimbo Robinson and co‑host David Schuessler sit down with Karl Gunzer of Purina Pro Plan, the presenting sponsor of the DUX Waterfowl Show and a long‑time partner of Ducks Unlimited. The conversation highlights the role of high-performance dog nutrition in hunting success and why Purina has invested so heavily in the waterfowl community. Karl shares how Pro Plan approaches dog food through science, research, and performance — and how that differs from trends driven purely by marketing. They also discuss how nutrition impacts everything from stamina and recovery to long-term health, and why feeding a premium diet can make a measurable difference in working dogs. Beyond performance, the episode explores Purina’s broader commitment to conservation, including support for habitat work and sustainability initiatives that directly benefit waterfowl and hunters. The discussion also looks ahead to DUX, where Purina’s interactive presence has become a centerpiece of the show — bringing dog owners closer to the science, training, and real-world experience that define a great hunting companion. At its core, this episode is about the connection between hunters, dogs, and conservation — and the role nutrition plays in keeping that tradition strong. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast [https://www.ducks.org/DUPodcast] Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org SPONSORS: Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited Whether 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.

Benelli & the Modern Waterfowl Gun: Innovation, Performance & DU Partnership

JOIN US AT THE 2026 DUCKS UNLIMITED EXPO! [https://www.duckexpo.com/] July 31 - August 2 at the RENASANT CONVENTION CENTER in Memphis, TN  What makes a great waterfowl shotgun — and how has that standard evolved? Recorded live from Ducks Unlimited’s National Convention, host Jimbo Robinson is joined by Jeremy Smith and guests from Benelli USA, including Vice President of Sales Lee Colquitt and Channel Sales Manager Jeff Serner. The conversation explores Benelli’s long-standing role in the waterfowl community and the brand’s continued investment in innovation, performance, and durability. From the iconic Super Black Eagle platform to new advancements like Advanced Impact (AI) technology, the group dives into how modern shotgun design is changing the way hunters shoot — from improved pattern performance to increased effective range and cleaner kills. They also discuss the importance of fit and customization, including the often-overlooked role of shim kits in improving accuracy, as well as what truly separates a good shotgun from a great one in demanding waterfowl conditions. Beyond the technical side, the episode highlights the relationship between Benelli and Ducks Unlimited — particularly how firearms programs support conservation through fundraising efforts and events across the country. Whether you’re upgrading your gun, learning more about shotgun performance, or just passionate about waterfowling, this episode offers both practical insights and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most respected brands in the industry. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast [https://www.ducks.org/DUPodcast] Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org SPONSORS: 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.

RELOADED EP235 - Waterfowl Harvest Management Series, Part 16: Pintail AHM & the Role of Harvest in Duck Management

JOIN US AT THE 2026 DUCKS UNLIMITED EXPO! [https://www.duckexpo.com/] July 31 - August 2 at the RENASANT CONVENTION CENTER in Memphis, TN  Dr. Scott Boomer, USFWS wildlife biologist, rejoins the show to offer his thoughts on sex-specific regulations and provide a brief update on the ongoing revision to the Pintail harvest strategy. Scott also shares his thoughts on the relative importance of harvest management vs. habitat conservation in achieving duck population goals. Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast [https://www.ducks.org/DUPodcast] Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org SPONSORS: Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited Whether 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.