National Convention Auction Information

Following is just a sampling of some of the items that will be included at the 2008 Convention auction.  Please check back periodically to see what we have in store for you during the auction.

The Annual Convention is sponsored in part by Bank of America. If you use your Bank of America Ducks Unlimited credit card at the Convention and auction, DU and wetlands conservation will benefit.

Mexico Dove Hunting - Everyone loves dove hunting, and nobody can show you dove hunting like David Warner can at Campo David Lodge in the western Mexican state of Sinaloa. Enjoy generous limits and fast and furious shooting for both mourning doves and whitewings. Before and after the shooting, David and his staff will make sure you are treated like royalty, with first class accommodations and gourmet meals in his beautiful lodge. This trip is for two hunters, for three full days of hunting, and must be scheduled for November or December of 2008. Includes round trip air travel to Los Mochis, ground transfers, and all accommodations and meals. Not included are personal items, rental guns, hunting licenses, ammunition and gratuities. Donated by Mr. David Warner and Campo David Lodge.

Echo “Home and Habitat” Tool Package - Our friends at ECHO, Inc., manufacturer of high quality, reliable outdoor power tools, has graciously provided to this year’s convention top quality power tools that would be useful at home or camp. You have the opportunity to bid on a package that includes a CS-370 chain saw with case, chaps, gloves, muffs and safety glasses, a power head with edger attachment, rapid loader attachment, and an ECHO blower. Donated by DU Partner, ECHO, Inc.

An unbeleiveable collection of outdoor products from Ducks Unlimited’s corporate partners. This package includes:

Your choice between a 2008 model Ducks Unlimited special edition yamaha rhino 700 or DU edition grizzly 700 – donated by Yamaha.  The winning bidder may select one of these two top-performance vehicles as their own. The 2008 Ducks Unlimited Special Edition Rhino 700 Automatic 4x4 sets the standard for Side-by-Side (SxS) vehicles with the best power-to-weight ratio in its class, industry-exclusive Ultramatic® transmission and fully independent four-wheel suspension.  The Ducks Unlimited Edition features Advantage Max-4™ High Definition Camouflage, DU logos, a molded sun top, wind deflector, under hood storage box, overfenders, cargo net, gun mounts and two gun boots.  The toughest SxS on the market, the Rhino also includes a comfortable interior, automotive-type controls and thick bucket seats for the smoothest and most dependable ride.  Or, the winning bidder may select the Ducks Unlimited Grizzly 700 4x4.  Yamaha set a new standard in ATVs introducing the first ever Electric Power Steering (EPS) system for an all-terrain vehicle on the 2008 Grizzly 700 FI Automatic 4x4. The specially equipped Ducks Unlimited Edition also comes standard with all of the hunting accessories you need like Advantage Max-4™, DU logos, overfenders, a gun boot mount and gun boot and a front molded cargo box.  Delivery will be conveniently arranged through a Yamaha dealer near the buyer’s home.  Donated by DU partner, Yamaha.

Also inlcuded in this package is a set of camo atv accessories to fit your new Yamaha donated by Tucker Rocky.  Last but not least,  Avery Outdoors has donated a waterfowl accessory package complete with 4 dozen oversize mallard decoys, an Avery ground blind, floating blind bag, and an Avery floating gun case.

Kentucky Quail Hunting and Clays - DU’s great friend and supporter, Skip Seltman, again offers his private northern Kentucky farm and shooting facility to a lucky quartet of shooters eager to sample great bobwhite quail hunting and the challenge of sporting clays. If great bird dogs, hard-flying quail and fine shotgunning appeals to you, raise your hand!  Your group of four hunters will enjoy it all at Long Ridge Kennels and Cedar Valley Sporting Clays, located just 40 miles south of Cincinnati, Ohio. Skip’s professional dog trainer and farm manager will guide you, and Skip’s terrific bird dogs will astound you. Scheduling of the hunt is flexible between mid-October and mid-December 2008. The trip includes air travel to and from Cincinnati, a rental vehicle, two full days of hunting and shooting for four people, private accommodations in the renovated farmhouse lodge right on the property, personal cook and housekeeper, great meals, post-shooting libations and all the great Winchester ammunition you’ll need for both quail and clays. Not included are personal items, hunting licenses and gratuities. Donated by Mr. Skip Seltman of Cincinnati, Ohio.

John E. Walker Tribute Bronze - Entitled “Sunrise at Johnny’s,” this beautiful bronze by Texas sculptor Ronnie Wells honors our late past President from the great state of Texas. Limited to an edition of only ten pieces, this is Number 4 in the series. One will be auctioned at each successive national convention auction through 2014, at which time the edition of ten will be fully sold out to a very select group of Johnny’s friends and fellow conservationists. There are also two artist’s proofs. The first was presented to past First Lady of DU, Mrs. Susan Walker. The second is permanently and proudly on display at Ducks Unlimited’s National Headquarters, beneath a special plaque upon which will be engraved the names of each successive buyer of the ten limited edition pieces. The drake bluewing teal was Johnny’s favorite bird. The title is engraved on the polished half-circle, which represents the rising sun. And the Hunter’s Prayer, written by Wells, is engraved on the black granite base, atop the custom walnut foundation. Donated by Ronnie and Patricia Wells.

ARGO - You’ve seen them. Wouldn’t you like to have one for the duck camp?
The ARGO 8x8 Avenger 750 EFI is an 8-wheel drive amphibious off-road vehicle. It features an OHV V-twin liquid cooled 748 cc fuel injected engine. It comes with a three-year limited warranty.

Equipment includes:

• 25” tires
• Hydraulic vented disc brakes
• Full skid plate
• Winch
• Convertible top

Personalized Art by Ralph McDonald - DU’s 2006 International Artist of the Year and well-recognized artist by DU event attendees, Mr. Ralph McDonald, will create for the high bidder an original Greenwing-style portrait. Provide reference photographs of your child, grandchild or other youngster in your life and Ralph will create an original painting that will be a treasured family keepsake.  Donated by Mr. Ralph McDonald.

Another unique collection of DU licensed products brought to you by DU’s own corporate partners. These items are perfect for any den or living room in your house or cabin.

 Ducks Unlimited Partners Package, featuring a Vacation at Big Cedar Lodge from Bass Pro Shops - This package features products from DU corporate partners to help you furnish your home or camp, plus a trip to spectacular Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri. The package includes:

    • Vacation package for two people at Big Cedar Lodge    • Recliner    • Cocktail Ottoman    • Sofa    • Ducks Unlimited gun safe from Browning    • 2 John Marshall designed Ducks Unlimited ceiling fans    • Ducks Unlimited king size bedding set

Listed furniture if from the Aspen Leather Collection donated by Bass Pro Shops. Classic styling meets irresistible comfort with this beautiful Italian leather collection. Hand-tooled leather borders and hand-applied nailhead trim give the pieces an artistic, yet rugged appearance. Each piece was built for a lifetime with heavy-duty sinuous springs spaced every 3-1/2" for extra support. Sofa  38" x 90" x 44". Recliner 40" x 43" x 39". Cocktail Ottoman 19" x 42" x 42". (Allow six weeks for delivery.)

To enhance your home or camp, the indoor package includes a Ducks Unlimited gun safe from Browning. Metallic Mallards scene by David Jackson bonded to surface of safe door. Features a heavy, 10-gauge steel body with a baked-on, high-gloss finish, 1 5/16" thick Duo-Formed® door, fourteen 1 1/4" chromed locking bolts, and a deluxe three-spoke handle. Hunter green metallic in color.

From John Marshall Design, you’ll receive two indoor Ducks Unlimited ceiling fans. Antique brass with hand-carved walnut finish, duck feather blades, 4-light marble alabaster light kit, 54"fan with 5 blades and 3 speeds and reversible operation.

For your bedroom, you’ll also receive a Ducks Unlimited king size bedding set; it’s plush and inviting faux-suede bedding with insatiable comfort and design featuring DU logo accents. 220 Thread Count Sheets and Pillowcases.
 
The feature item: a vacation package for two people at Big Cedar Lodge just south of Branson in southern Missouri. Big Cedar Lodge is a spectacular lodge offering fishing, boating, horse back riding, a kids club and activities, fitness center and spa, swimming pools, shopping, photography studio and multiple restaurants. Nearby Dogwood Canyon Nature Park features kayaking, jeep tours of a nature farm, walking and trout fishing. The package includes 3 days - 2 nights stay for two in a fantastic, private one room cabin, guided fishing for two days on Tablerock Lake at the Lodge, breakfast and lunch for 3 days, dinner for 2 nights.
 
Big Cedar Lodge has been used for a DU Corporate Partner Summit and offers a special experience. Package does not include airfare or transportation. Courtesy of Bass Pro Shops.

DU Edition Browning Gun Safe 

Items From John Marshall Design

Ducks Unlimited Ceiling Fan

King bedding set inspired by Ducks Unlimited
FEATURES:
• 220 Thread Count Sheets and Pillowcases

Plush and inviting is how we describe our Ducks Unlimited® faux-suede bedding. With insatiable comfort and design featuring DU logo accents, it is a true tribute to your impeccable home décor satisfaction.

  ________________________________________
  

Tony Padgett Original Art - We are proud to offer a wonderful piece of art created by Ducks Unlimited’s 2008 International Artist of the Year, Mr. Tony Padgett. “Morning Call - Elk” is an original painting of an elk bugling in the sun rays of a beautiful morning.  Donated by Mr. Tony Padgett.

Argentina Dove Hunt for Six Hunters - Available Date(s) of Trip:   September, October 1, 2008 through January 31, 2009 by mutual arrangement. No exceptions.

This hunt is on a private ranch near Cordoba, Argentina and is guided by the staff of David Denies Wingshooting. Lodging is at La Dormida lodge, the finest lodge in the region. This hunt includes meals, accommodations, and guides, but does not include shotgun shells, (current price $11.85 per box of 25-subject to change) license ($65 per shooter per day), airfare or tips. Outfitter will pick you up from the airport in Cordoba, Argentina. Non-hunters are welcome at $350 per person, per day.

Cordoba is the epicenter of dove shooting in the world, with a typical population of over 40 million doves at any given time, and David Denies was the first, and is still the foremost, outfitter in the region. Starting in 1984, David Denies Wingshooting has years of experience in the area, and in addition to land ownership, they also lease over fifty large land holdings. They make sure that you’ll be under waves and waves of birds each day. Experienced bird boys assist in the field each day, where guides make certain you’ll see birds at every imaginable angle, all day long. David Denies provides the most exciting and enjoyable dove shooting available.

In addition to the shooting, you’ll stay at the LaDormida Lodge during your time in Cordoba. This new lodge has been built from the ground up specifically as an elegant shooting lodge. It operates exclusively for David Denies dove hunters. Exceptional meals are served, which include a la carte dinners with fine Argentine wines. Amenities, aside from spacious and tasteful guest rooms, include a delightful small pool, game room, and business center with satellite phone, fax, and satellite internet. Horseback riding is available on the property, and there are a number of other attractions nearby in the foothills of the Calamuchita range. For more information, visit www.daviddenies.com  Donated by Doug Larsen and David Denies.

Montana Waterfowl and Fun Weekend Hosted by Marc & Sherrie Pierce – This wonderful weekend has been arranged for 2 people – either 2 hunters or a couple.  The time of year is to be determined based upon buyer’s selection of hunting/fishing choices.  The trip includes a combination of two of the four options:  waterfowl hunting, pheasant hunting, snow-skiing or fly-fishing.  At least one day’s activities will be documented through the photography of award winning and nationally renowned outdoor photographer Dusan Smetana.  Photos may be used in DU magazine or other publications, and copies of images will be provided.

The weekend includes four nights lodging accommodations at the Pierces, 3 days of activities of your choice, meals, beer, wine, airfare, ammo, vehicle to drive, equipment and sculptures from Big Sky Carvers.  Buyer is responsible for cost of licenses.  Donated by Marc and Sherrie Pierce.

Beretta Firearms - Beretta White Onyx, Over/Under Shotgun  12 & 20 Gauge “One of a Kind” set - an exclusive for the 2008 Ducks Unlimited National Convention.

Beretta’s most versatile shotgun lines, this set of 12 & 20 gauge,  3” magnum has 28” blued, chrome lined vent rib barrels, 3 interchangeable choke tubes (IC, M, F) and wrench.  The stock and fore-end are European Walnut in semi-gloss finish with classic checkering, and a black recoil pad.  The metal receiver is satin nickel accented with Beretta’s Dura-Jewel finish.  Custom 24K engraving of the Ducks Unlimited logo on the trigger guard and gold-filled flying mallards on left and right sides makes this an exclusive “One of a Kind” set. Special thanks to Beretta USA and Baron Engraving for this generous donation.

Scot Storm Original Art - We are proud to offer a wonderful piece of original art created by Ducks Unlimited’s 2005 International Artist of the Year, Mr. Scot Storm.  This original framed painting of two majestic pintail drakes and a hen was selected as the 2008-09 Oklahoma DU Sponsor print.  The image size is 13" x 18".  Donated by Mr. Scot Storm.

Ducks Unlimited President’s Hunts - Two people will have the unique opportunity to experience waterfowl hunting throughout North America with the three Ducks Unlimited Presidents.  This trip begins with 2 days of hunting in the prairies of Alberta during the early fall with DU Canada President Neil Downey.  President Downey has graciously agreed to feed and host his guests at his Alberta duck camp.  Later in the season, they will have the opportunity to hunt wintering waterfowl for 2 days in the Mississippi Delta with DU President Bruce Lewis.  President Lewis has also agreed to feed and host his guests at his camp near Natchez, Mississippi.  Finally, to wind-up this “across-the-continent” experience, they will have the opportunity to hunt waterfowl for 2 days south of the border in Mexico with DUMAC President John Tomke.  This all-inclusive package that includes lodging, food and airfare to all three hunt locations is a once in a lifetime experience!  The lucky winners, however, will need to purchase their hunting license for each hunt.

Although most of the lodging, meals and hunting has been graciously donated by each President, the airfares and a portion of the lodging has been underwritten by our good friends at Bank of America.

Ward Brothers Preening Canada Goose Decoy - Here is a chance to own a rare piece of history!  This 1965 circa Ward brothers Preening Canada Goose decoy in excellent condition is signed and authenticated as 1 of 50 by the artist himself, Lem Ward.  The Ward Brothers, Lem and Steve of Crisfield, Maryland, are revered throughout the decoy community for their extraordinary work.  The brothers are thought to have carved thousands of decoys beginning in the 1930s.  Steve Ward died in 1976 and Lem Ward died in 1984 at age 87.

This wonderful piece has been graciously donated by long-time Delaware supporters Jack and Weezie Dukes.

“ Pitchin’ the Roost” Wild Turkey Bronze by Ronnie Wells - Whoever wins the bid for this unique artwork of a Gobbler preparing to leave his roost will own one of renowned artist Ronnie Wells’ most recent sculptures.  The edition size for this piece is 30 regular and 5 artist proofs.  This particular sculpture is number 5 of the artist proofs.

This beautiful sculpture has been generously donated by the artist himself, Ronnie Wells, and a good friend of the ducks, Jerry Brocato with Sporting World.

Ladies Diamond Necklace and Diamond Earrings - Ladies get ready to bid on this one of a kind beautifully hand-crafted necklace in 18 karat white gold.  This duckhead sparkles with .33 ct diamonds.  The package is complete with 1.18 ct pave´ cut diamond earrings in 14 karat white gold.


Brickyard 400 Package - This attractive auction item is sure to get your engines started in Indianapolis!  4 people will enjoy suite tickets across from pit row for the qualifying Busch Race on Saturday evening, July 26, 2008 as well as the Brickyard 400 on Sunday, July 27, 2008.  This package includes 2 hotel rooms at the Sheraton Keystone Crossing, transportation to and from the race, four garage passes, breakfast Saturday and Sunday mornings, as well as lunch on Saturday and Sunday and dinner on Sunday in the suite.  Airfare and transportation to and from Indianapolis is not provided.

This fantastic offering has been made available by Dow AgroSciences, with support from John and Judy Tomke.


Rollie Stick - Here is one more opportunity to own an authentic “Rollie Stick” handcrafted by Pappa Duck himself.  Rollie’s perennial pilgrimage to DU’s Annual Conventions was always highlighted by his generous gifts of his “sticks” to DU’s leadership and his ever-present Razorback chant.  This beautifully constructed walking stick was generously donated by a Friend of the Ducks.


Daisy Rifles - Be the winning bidder and own a piece of history - 3 Daisy rifles presented to Past President Harry Knight in 1991. These 3 special edition rifles are handsomely displayed in a presentation case.
Graciously donated by Harry Knight.


Baseball in the Big City - Here’s your chance to see the best sluggers in the game and take a bite out of the The Big Apple. Bid on a package for two people to attend the 79th Major League All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium in New York City. Arrive Sunday July 13 and depart on Wednesday July 16. This package includes:

    • Airfare*
    • Accommodations at a New York City hotel property arranged by Major League Baseball
    • Tickets to the Home Run Derby on July 14
    • Tickets to the All-Star Game on July 15
    • VIP access and other benefits.

Yankee Stadium’s days are numbered as the Yankees prepare to open a new stadium in 2009. This may be your last chance to see this historic sports venue.

This entire package is generously donated by our partners at Budweiser, Anheuser-Busch, St. Louis, Missouri.

*Please Note: Once airfare is purchased, any change and/or upgrade charges become the responsibility of the traveler

Flavor Bay Canvasback Gunning Decoy Collection - A once in a lifetime chance to bid on a group of canvasback decoys generously donated by legendary area carvers. All decoys in the package represent traditional gunning birds in the styles endemic to the Chesapeake Bay. 

    • Tuts Lawson, Crisfield MD – Pair of Canvasback decoys
    • Bill Veasey, Newark, DE – Pair of Canvasback decoys   
    • Capt. Arthur Leonard – Chincoteague, VA – Pair of Canvasback decoys   
    • Capt. Pete Peterson – Cape Charles, VA – Single Canvasback decoy


Please Note:  Once airfare is purchased, any change and or upgrade charges become the responsibility of the traveler.