The Migration Waterfowl Podcast

Some waterfowl hunters measure experience by the number of seasons they've hunted. The best hunters measure it by how much they're still learning. On this episode of The Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib sits down with Jordan Murdoch, National Sales and Marketing Manager for Rig'Em Right Outdoors, to discuss why the most accomplished duck and goose hunters never stop being students of the birds. Jordan reflects on the 2025–26 waterfowl season, the lessons it taught him, and how years of experience have changed the way he scouts, reads bird behavior, adjusts to changing conditions, and evaluates every hunt. The conversation explores what experienced waterfowl hunters are paying attention to that others often overlook, why failure can be one of the greatest teachers in the blind, and how continuing to learn from every season can make you a more successful hunter. The episode also dives into Jordan's role at Rig'Em Right Outdoors, how real-world hunting experience influences product development, what's new from Rig'Em Right for 2026, and what waterfowl hunters can expect from the company in the future. Whether you've been chasing ducks and geese for two seasons or twenty, this conversation is packed with practical insights that will challenge the way you think about waterfowl hunting and help you become a better hunter. In this episode: Lessons learned from the 2025–26 waterfowl season Why experienced hunters never stop learning Reading bird behavior and making better adjustments The small details that separate successful hunters Learning from every hunt—both good and bad How Jordan's approach to waterfowl hunting has evolved The philosophy behind Rig'Em Right Outdoors New Rig'Em Right products for 2026 What's on the horizon for Rig'Em Right Thanks for listening to The Migration Waterfowl Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the show, leave a rating and review, and share it with a fellow waterfowl hunter. Your support helps me continue bringing you new conversations every week. Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Key Takeaways From This Episode: The best waterfowl seasons are often built during the off-season. Boat restoration projects take more time, money, and patience than most people expect. A practical duck boat should prioritize durability, simplicity, storage, and versatility over unnecessary features. Used decoys can often be restored for a fraction of the cost of buying new ones. Building your own long lines allows you to customize your setup while saving money. Small repairs completed in the summer can prevent major frustrations during hunting season. Organization saves time, reduces stress, and helps extend the life of your gear. Every piece of hunting equipment should be inspected, cleaned, and tested before opening day. Project setbacks are part of the process—success comes from staying committed and working through them. Preparation creates opportunity when the migration arrives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of The Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes Tony and Tristan Vogel, the father-son team behind One Hell of a Life Outdoors and the One Hell of a Life Outdoor Podcast. We discuss how they got started waterfowl hunting, the experiences that shaped them as hunters, and how their approach to chasing ducks and geese has evolved over the years. From their early days in the blind to what a typical season looks like today, Tony and Tristan share lessons learned through decades of hunting and time spent outdoors together. We also dive into a topic that seems to be on the minds of many hunters today: the current state of waterfowl social media. Is it helping grow the sport, or creating more division within the hunting community? We discuss authenticity in outdoor content, hunting culture online, and what responsibility content creators have when representing the future of our sport. Whether you're a lifelong waterfowl hunter, a new hunter looking to learn, or someone interested in the future of hunting culture, this episode is packed with honest conversation and valuable perspective. Please share this episode with your waterfowl hunting friends and family, and thank you for supporting The Migration Waterfowl Podcast. Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes Ben Meyers of Flight Day Ammunition back to the show for an in-depth discussion on the current state and future of waterfowl ammunition. The conversation begins with a breakdown of the recent U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service memorandum clarifying approved non-toxic shot requirements for migratory bird hunting. Ben explains what the memo means for hunters, manufacturers, and the future development of non-toxic shot materials. They discuss copper shot, approved shot types, the federal approval process, and some of the misconceptions circulating throughout the hunting community. Brian and Ben also take a deep dive into the economics of waterfowl ammunition, including the rising costs of bismuth and tungsten shot. Ben shares insight into global supply chains, material availability, pricing trends, and how market forces continue to shape the ammunition industry. The discussion also covers the practical side of things for waterfowl hunters. Ben compares steel, bismuth, and tungsten loads, explains where each option shines in the field, and offers advice on choosing the right ammunition for different hunting situations and budgets. Whether you're interested in regulations, ballistics, ammunition technology, or simply want to become a more informed waterfowl hunter, this episode is packed with valuable information. Please share this episode with your waterfowl hunting friends and family. Learn more about Flight Day Ammunition at FlightDayAmmo.com. Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib is joined by Chris Williams, Senior Director of Industry Partnerships at Delta Waterfowl. Chris shares the history of Delta Waterfowl and explains how the organization evolved into one of the leading voices in duck production, hunter recruitment, and waterfowl conservation in North America. Brian and Chris discuss Delta’s mission, major accomplishments, current conservation projects, habitat priorities, and the state of duck populations heading into the future. The conversation also covers some of the biggest issues facing hunters today, including public land concerns, anti-hunting legislation, conservation funding, and the importance of keeping hunters engaged in protecting the future of waterfowl hunting. Chris also gives listeners an inside look at the 2026 Delta Waterfowl Duck Hunters Expo happening July 24–26 in Des Moines, Iowa. They discuss what attendees can expect, why the Expo continues to grow, and why events like this matter for the future of the hunting community. Whether you’re passionate about duck conservation, habitat, public lands, or simply want to become a more informed waterfowl hunter, this episode is packed with valuable insight and discussion. Please share this episode with your hunting friends and family and thank you for supporting the Migration Waterfowl Podcast. Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes Ernest Gonzales of Feet Down Waterfowl to the show. Ernest is a hardcore Texas waterfowl hunter and content creator known for sharing his passion for the sport through Feet Down Waterfowl on TikTok. Brian gets Ernest’s background and hears the story of how his obsession with duck hunting began before diving into what makes waterfowl hunting in Texas unique. The conversation turns to scouting, hunting strategy, and lessons learned from years spent chasing ducks. Ernest shares his approach to breaking down new areas, discusses common mistakes hunters make, and explains what separates average hunters from consistently successful waterfowl hunters. Brian and Ernest also talk about the role social media plays in hunting today, how platforms like TikTok have influenced hunting culture, gear philosophies, unpopular opinions, and plenty of stories from time spent in the marsh. Waterfowl hunters of all experience levels will find some entertaining stories and practical takeaways in this episode. Please share this episode with your waterfowl hunting friends and family. Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected] 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 Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib dives into one of the topics he gets asked about a lot: freelance waterfowl road trips. From choosing a destination and planning a hunt to licensing, budgeting, scouting, gear selection, and deciding where to actually hunt once you arrive, Brian breaks down his complete process for planning DIY waterfowl adventures. Whether you're thinking about taking your first out-of-state hunt or looking to become a more efficient travel hunter, this episode is packed with practical information and lessons learned through years of trial and error. Brian discusses how he researches potential hunting locations, what resources he uses before ever leaving home, how he approaches scouting unfamiliar areas, and the gear that makes the cut when space is limited. He also covers regulations and licensing considerations, the importance of understanding each state or province waterfowl laws, and what happens after the hunt—including transporting and making use of harvested birds. If you've ever wondered what really goes into planning a successful freelance hunt beyond the social media highlight reels, this episode pulls back the curtain. Please share this episode with your hunting friends and family, and thank you for supporting the Migration Waterfowl Podcast. Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected] Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @migrationwaterfowl Patreon - You can support the show here and get exclusive access! https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl Migration Waterfowl Apparel & Gear Roost https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg Toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib welcomes his friend and hunting partner Mike Pomaibo back to the show. Mike is a hardcore waterfowl hunter from Pennsylvania. Brian asks Mike about his recent turkey hunting success and gets to hear the story of the gobbler Mike got to harvest while hunting with his dad. They talk about tungsten ammunition and the extreme rise in cost of TSS rounds. The conversation turns to waterfowl hunting and Brian asks Mike to share his perspective of what has worked and what hasn't as he has matured as a waterfowl hunter over the last few seasons. Mike shares his top 5 tips that helped him level up his waterfowl hunting game. He also breaks down some common misconceptions he expected as a new waterfowl hunter and how he dealt with those. Waterfowl hunters of all levels will find some great information in this episode. Please share this with your waterfowl hunting friends and family. Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected] Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @migrationwaterfowl Migration Waterfowl Merchandise & The Gear Roost: https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg Toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib breaks down his ideal waterfowl season blueprint—what he would do differently if he could start from scratch, knowing what he knows now. From defining what a successful season actually looks like, to structuring early, mid, and late season hunts, Brian dives into the strategies that separate a reactive season from an intentional one. He covers how to balance local hunting and travel, why off-season prep matters more than most hunters realize, and how staying organized and ready can lead to more opportunities in the field. Brian also discusses the importance of hunting conditions over calendar dates, choosing the right hunting partners, and adapting when things don’t go according to plan—because they rarely do. Whether you’re chasing more consistent success or just looking to get more out of your time in the blind, this episode will help you approach the upcoming season with purpose. ⸻ In This Episode: How to define a successful hunting season Structuring your season from early teal to late-season birds Local vs. travel hunts: what actually makes sense The importance of off-season prep Gear organization and being ready when conditions hit Why weather and conditions matter more than weekends Adapting when the season doesn’t go as planned ⸻ Support the Show: If you’re enjoying the podcast, consider supporting on Patreon. Choose from Flyway Member, Blind Partner, or Migration Crew tiers—each designed to bring you closer to the show and the Migration Waterfowl community. https://www.patreon.com/MigrationWaterfowl ⸻ Connect & Follow: Follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for more content, gear, and behind-the-scenes from the season. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow waterfowl hunter. Feel free to reach out to us: [email protected] Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @migrationwaterfowl Migration Waterfowl Store https://www.migrationwaterfowl.com Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Am-mo https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Retay USA https://www.retayusa.com frogg Toggs https://www.froggtoggs.com The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices