EP. 116: How to Find More Ducks & Geese: A Guide to Better Scouting

EP. 116: How to Find More Ducks & Geese: A Guide to Better Scouting

What separates consistently successful waterfowl hunters from everyone else? It's not a more expensive shotgun, a bigger decoy spread, or the latest piece of gear. More often than not, success begins long before legal shooting light—with scouting. On this solo episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib shares practical lessons he's learned over years of hunting rivers, lakes, marshes, and agricultural fields across multiple flyways. From understanding how ducks and geese use food, water, weather, and hunting pressure to learning how to read bird behavior and recognize seasonal patterns, this episode is packed with real-world insights that can help you become a more effective and consistent waterfowl hunter. Whether you're scouting your local marsh for opening day or planning a destination hunt, you'll learn how to think beyond simply finding birds and start understanding why they're there in the first place. In this episode, you'll learn: * Why scouting is the foundation of consistently successful hunts * How ducks and geese choose where to feed, rest, and loaf * What to look for before, during, and after every scouting trip * Common scouting mistakes that cost hunters opportunities * How weather, water levels, food sources, and hunting pressure influence bird movement * Simple habits that will help you become a better student of waterfowl behavior season after season The best waterfowl hunters never stop learning—and every scouting trip is an opportunity to improve. If you want to find more ducks and geese this season, this episode is the perfect place to start. Feel free to reach out to us: migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com [migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com] Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @migrationwaterfowl Migration Waterfowl Store - Gear Roost & Apparel https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com Patreon - Support the show & get more personal content from Brian https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl [https://www.patreon.com/c/MigrationWaterfowl] Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com [https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com] And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com [https://rigemright.com] Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com [https://www.flightdayammo.com] 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com [https://aveshunting.com] Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com [https://www.retayusa.com] frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com [https://www.froggtoggs.com/] The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany [https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany] Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com [https://www.northernduckcalls.com] 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

Ep. 115: The River Before Us, a History of the Upper Ohio River

On this episode of The Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib explores the fascinating history of the river he grew up around and still hunts today—the Upper Ohio River. Long before the locks, dams, barges, bridges and steel mills, the Ohio flowed through a vast wilderness filled with wooded islands, abundant wildlife and Native peoples who hunted, traveled and traded throughout the valley. From the arrival of European fur traders and the struggle between France and Britain for control of the region to a young George Washington’s role in events that helped ignite a global war, the Upper Ohio has witnessed some of the most important moments in American history. Brian follows the transformation of the river from a wild frontier to an industrial highway, the devastating effects of pollution and habitat loss, the rise of modern wildlife conservation, and the enduring role of the Ohio River as a migration corridor and hunting destination for generations of waterfowl hunters. The River Before Us: A History of the Upper Ohio River is a journey through more than 300 years of history, hunting and conservation—and a reminder that every time we launch a boat, set a spread of decoys and watch ducks follow the river, we’re becoming part of a story that began long before us. Feel free to reach out to us: migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com [migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com] Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @migrationwaterfowl Migration Waterfowl Store - Gear Roost & Apparel https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com Patreon - Support the show & get more personal content from Brian https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl [https://www.patreon.com/c/MigrationWaterfowl] Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com [https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com] And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com [https://rigemright.com] Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com [https://www.flightdayammo.com] 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com [https://aveshunting.com] Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com [https://www.retayusa.com] frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com [https://www.froggtoggs.com/] The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany [https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany] Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com [https://www.northernduckcalls.com] 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

EP. 114: What Waterfowl Hunters Really Want in a Shotgun with Hunter Flanders

On this episode of The Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes Hunter Flanders from Retay USA. They discuss everything from Hunter's 2025-26 hunting season to the latest Retay shotguns and innovations coming for 2026. But this conversation goes far beyond new products. Hunter shares stories from the marsh, discusses what today's waterfowl hunters are looking for in a shotgun, and offers an inside look at how manufacturers develop and market products in an outdoor industry that's changing faster than ever. We also dive into the current state of outdoor marketing—what's working, what isn't, and why every product launch seems to spark some criticism across social media. From ambassadors and content creators to authenticity, consumer trust, and the future of hunting brands, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes perspective that every waterfowl hunter can appreciate. Whether you're considering your next shotgun, interested in how the outdoor industry really works, or simply enjoy conversations centered around duck hunting and the people who make it their lifestyle, this is an episode you won't want to miss. In this episode: * Hunter's reflections on the past waterfowl season * New Retay USA shotguns and product updates for 2026 * What serious waterfowl hunters want in a shotgun today * How Retay gathers customer feedback and develops new products * The current state of outdoor industry marketing * Social media, ambassadors, and what manufacturers actually look for in brand partners * Why outdoor marketing often draws criticism—and whether it's deserved * The future of hunting content and connecting with today's hunters * Hunter's favorite waterfowl memories, gear, and rapid-fire hunting questions Thanks for listening to The Migration Waterfowl Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another hunter who's counting down the days until opening morning. Feel free to reach out to us: migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com [migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com] Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @migrationwaterfowl Migration Waterfowl Store - Gear Roost & Apparel https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com Patreon - Support the show & get more personal content from Brian https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl [https://www.patreon.com/c/MigrationWaterfowl] Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com [https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com] And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com [https://rigemright.com] Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com [https://www.flightdayammo.com] 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com [https://aveshunting.com] Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com [https://www.retayusa.com] frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com [https://www.froggtoggs.com/] The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany [https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany] Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com [https://www.northernduckcalls.com] 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

EP. 113: Expanding Opportunities For Waterfowl Hunters & California Duck Hunting With Fred Broad

Most waterfowl hunters probably don't think of California when discussing the best duck hunting in North America—but maybe they should. On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, I'm joined by lifelong waterfowler Fred Broad, whose journey has taken him from Pennsylvania to a new life in California and 9 consecutive years of hunting in Canada. Along the way, Fred became what he proudly calls a "mallard purist," dedicating decades to chasing greenheads and learning what makes them one of the most challenging and rewarding ducks to hunt. Fred explains why he believes California is one of the best-kept secrets in waterfowl hunting, breaks down the state's unique refuge system, and reflects on what California mallard hunting looked like during its heyday. We also discuss how changing habitat, agriculture, weather patterns, and hunting pressure have shaped today's seasons and what the future may hold for Pacific Flyway hunters. Fred also shares his proposal for establishing a Senior Hunt alongside existing Veteran Hunt days, making the case for recognizing the generations of hunters who have spent decades supporting conservation through licenses, duck stamps, and organizational memberships. Whether you're a die-hard mallard hunter, planning your first trip west, or simply enjoy hearing stories from someone who has spent a lifetime following the flyways, this episode offers a unique perspective from one of waterfowl hunting's true enthusiasts. Key Takeaways: • Why Fred believes California is America's best-kept waterfowl hunting secret. • What makes California's mallard hunting different from the rest of the country. • How California's refuge system works • A look back at California duck hunting during the 1980s and 90s—and why it has changed. • What it really means to be a "mallard purist." • Lessons learned from hunting California and Canada • Fred's proposal for a Senior Hunt and why he believes it's time to recognize the hunters who helped build modern conservation. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with a fellow waterfowl hunter. Your support helps us continue bringing you conversations with passionate hunters from across North America. Feel free to reach out to us: migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com [migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com] Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @migrationwaterfowl Migration Waterfowl Store - Gear Roost & Apparel https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com Patreon - Support the show & get more personal content from Brian https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl [https://www.patreon.com/c/MigrationWaterfowl] Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com [https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com] And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com [https://rigemright.com] Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com [https://www.flightdayammo.com] 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com [https://aveshunting.com] Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com [https://www.retayusa.com] frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com [https://www.froggtoggs.com/] The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany [https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany] Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com [https://www.northernduckcalls.com] 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

EP. 112: My Off-Season Projects & Waterfowl Season Preparations

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib dives into several projects currently underway as he prepares for another year of waterfowl hunting. From restoring an old aluminum Bass Tracker into a versatile duck and fishing rig to building diver decoy long lines and inspecting & maintaining gear, this episode is all about making the most of the months between seasons. Brian discusses the realities of taking on major DIY projects, including delayed shipments, missing parts, and the importance of setting realistic timelines. He also shares what he looks for in a duck and fishing combo boat, lessons learned so far during the restoration process, and why the finished product is only part of the story. The conversation also covers off-season gear maintenance, inspecting equipment from the previous season, making repairs before they become problems, and the importance of staying organized. Brian explains how the frustration of managing piles of hunting gear ultimately led to the creation of the Gear Roost and why organization can make a huge difference when the season arrives. Whether you're rebuilding a boat, repainting decoys, upgrading gear, or simply looking for ways to stay connected to waterfowl hunting during the summer months, this episode offers practical ideas and motivation to help you prepare for the migration ahead. Topics discussed: • Restoring a 17-foot aluminum Bass Tracker • What makes a great duck and fishing combo boat • Amazon delays, missing parts, and project setbacks • Setting realistic expectations for DIY projects • Building diver decoy long lines • Refurbishing older diver decoys • Off-season gear inspection and maintenance • Organizing hunting equipment for fall • Why preparation matters long before opening day • The story behind the Gear Roost If you're enjoying The Migration Waterfowl Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a hunting buddy. Feel free to reach out to us: migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com [migrationwaterfowl@gmail.com] Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @migrationwaterfowl Migration Waterfowl Store - Gear Roost & Apparel https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com Patreon - Support the show & get more personal content from Brian https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl [https://www.patreon.com/c/MigrationWaterfowl] Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com [https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com] And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com [https://rigemright.com] Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com [https://www.flightdayammo.com] 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com [https://aveshunting.com] Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com [https://www.retayusa.com] frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com [https://www.froggtoggs.com/] The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany [https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany] Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com [https://www.northernduckcalls.com] 15% off with code MW15 Key Takeaways From This Episode: 1. The best waterfowl seasons are often built during the off-season. 2. Boat restoration projects take more time, money, and patience than most people expect. 3. A practical duck boat should prioritize durability, simplicity, storage, and versatility over unnecessary features. 4. Used decoys can often be restored for a fraction of the cost of buying new ones. 5. Building your own long lines allows you to customize your setup while saving money. 6. Small repairs completed in the summer can prevent major frustrations during hunting season. 7. Organization saves time, reduces stress, and helps extend the life of your gear. 8. Every piece of hunting equipment should be inspected, cleaned, and tested before opening day. 9. Project setbacks are part of the process—success comes from staying committed and working through them. 10. Preparation creates opportunity when the migration arrives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]