History Lesson, The Herter’s Legend episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 2, 2026 · 12 MIN

History Lesson, The Herter’s Legend

from Midwest Flyways Podcast · host Midwest Flyways

In this episode of Ten Minute Tuesday, the guys take a deep dive into the fascinating history of Herter’s—the legendary catalog company that helped shape Midwest hunting culture for generations. Long before online shopping, big-box outdoor retailers, and social media influencers, hunters eagerly waited for the annual Herter’s catalog to arrive in the mail, packed with everything from duck decoys and calls to boats, waders, and hunting camp essentials.   The episode explores the story of founder George Leonard Herter, whose larger-than-life marketing style turned a small Minnesota sporting goods business into one of the most influential hunting brands in America. From the famous “Model Perfect” slogan and outrageous product claims to the rise of Herter’s decoys, boats, and hunting gear, the guys break down how the company changed waterfowl hunting forever and became a cornerstone of Midwest outdoor culture.   They also discuss the lasting legacy of Herter’s, why old catalogs have become collector’s items, and how many of the marketing tactics and gear debates hunters see today trace their roots back to the original hunting empire built in Waseca, Minnesota.   If you love waterfowl history, vintage hunting gear, and the stories behind the brands that shaped the sport, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!   Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP

In this episode of Ten Minute Tuesday, the guys take a deep dive into the fascinating history of Herter’s—the legendary catalog company that helped shape Midwest hunting culture for generations. Long before online shopping, big-box outdoor retailers, and social media influencers, hunters eagerly waited for the annual Herter’s catalog to arrive in the mail, packed with everything from duck decoys and calls to boats, waders, and hunting camp essentials.   The episode explores the story of founder George Leonard Herter, whose larger-than-life marketing style turned a small Minnesota sporting goods business into one of the most influential hunting brands in America. From the famous “Model Perfect” slogan and outrageous product claims to the rise of Herter’s decoys, boats, and hunting gear, the guys break down how the company changed waterfowl hunting forever and became a cornerstone of Midwest outdoor culture.   They also discuss the lasting legacy of Herter’s, why old catalogs have become collector’s items, and how many of the marketing tactics and gear debates hunters see today trace their roots back to the original hunting empire built in Waseca, Minnesota.   If you love waterfowl history, vintage hunting gear, and the stories behind the brands that shaped the sport, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!   Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP

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History Lesson, The Herter’s Legend

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This episode is 12 minutes long.

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This episode was published on June 2, 2026.

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In this episode of Ten Minute Tuesday, the guys take a deep dive into the fascinating history of Herter’s—the legendary catalog company that helped shape Midwest hunting culture for generations. Long before online shopping, big-box outdoor...

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