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Waterfowling Adventures

Planning a waterfowl hunting trip begins now

The details of your next waterfowl hunting trip may be fuzzy this time of year, but planning ahead will only improve the odds of having an enjoyable hunt. The logistics of traveling to hunt waterfowl can be overwhelming. This compilation of articles may help you plan, or inspire you to map out the perfect waterfowling adventure for the 2015–2016 waterfowl season.

DIY Hunting Trip Essentials »  Traveling with a Retriever »
Freelancer's Guide to the PPR »  20 Public Waterfowling Hotspots »
Duck Hunting on a Budget »  More Hunting Destination Tips »

Gear Guide

Layout blinds

Some would say that the layout blind has revolutionized the way waterfowlers hunt. Hunting blinds are continuing to be modified to fit the needs of duck and goose hunters—some for convenience, and some for specific habitat. This collection of layout blinds is an example of some of the latest models available for waterfowlers and their canine companions. Find your new blind today!

Find your blind »

2015 DU Member Photo Contest

Congratulations to this year's overall winner, Tam Nhan!

Ducks Unlimited members submitted an impressive array of images for this year's photo contest, once again displaying their passion for waterfowl, hunting, and retrievers. Hundreds of entries were submitted from all across the country, and the winning photos reflect this geographic diversity. The winners share not only a keen eye for photography, but also an unlikely distinction: each is a first-time entrant in the DU Member Photo Contest. From true novices to folks who have been snapping photos of nature since they could first venture out into the woods alone, these talented photographers all have great stories to tell.

Winners & Runners-up »  |  Honorable Mentions »

Field Reports

Spring habitat conditions

Significant precipitation will be needed to maintain or improve wetland habitats in many important waterfowl breeding areas.

Read more »

Waterfowling Heritage Center

Now open in the Bass Pro Shops at the Memphis Pyramid

Bass Pro Shops and Ducks Unlimited have created an interactive waterfowl and conservation experience like no other. The new Ducks Unlimited Waterfowling Heritage Center allows allow visitors to learn about Ducks Unlimited, wetlands conservation, waterfowl, the history of waterfowl hunting in North America, and the important role that sportsmen and women have played in conserving our continent's wildlife and habitat. The new museum offers exhibits and experiences for visitors of all ages, including displays featuring waterfowl collectibles, vintage firearms, and original art. View our photographic tour of the new facility.

Get an inside look »

Reports from Duck Country

Follow the 2015 waterfowl population survey

This week, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Canadian Wildlife Service, and state and provincial agencies will begin the 60th North American Waterfowl Breeding Population and Habitat Survey. The results of the survey will allow managers to estimate the size of waterfowl populations and the status of key breeding habitats across the United States and Canada. This information will be used to set hunting seasons and daily bag limits for the 2015–2016 waterfowl season. Follow the detailed reports from pilot-biologists and ground crews on DU's Habitat Map, sponsored by Husqvarna.

View pilot-biologist reports on map »

DU News: Recent Headlines

DU NewsDU Nebraska part of Omaha Gives! campaign

Ducks Unlimited competing for Omaha Gives! bonus dollars

Read more »

More Headlines

New Research Project Launches

DU scientists, technicians, and partners are conducting research on the Prairies. Follow along online this spring!

Read more »  

The Nesting Period

The health of waterfowl populations depends largely on the ability of the birds to successfully nest and hatch broods

Read more »

Youth Programs

Louisiana's first Varsity chapter bags big dollars for the ducks

Read more »  

In this issue
  • Plan your Waterfowling Adventure
  • Gear Guide: Layout Blinds
  • USFWS Pilot-Biologist Reports
  • 2015 DU Member Photo Contest Winners
  • 78th DU National Convention
  • ... and more

Favorite Member Photos

DU Favorite Member Photos Check out our editors' favorite selections from DU's Member Photos of the Day for the month of April.

View slideshow »

Field Notes

Jerk cords

DU TV Host Wade Bourne explains how to rig a simple jerk cord to add motion to your decoy spread.

Field Notes

View tip »

Retriever Training

Look to the sky

Mike Stewart of Wildrose Kennels explains how he trained Deke, the DU dog, to look toward the sky for birds. Utilizing a few training tools, anyone can train their retriever to look to the sky for birds.

Retriever Training Tip

View tip »

DU National Convention

Gather with your DU family in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as we celebrate the 78th year of Ducks Unlimited at the 2015 National Convention!

DU National Convention

Register today »

DU Films

Building a Tradition

The third installment in DU's new online film series visits Eric Dunn and his son, Tucker, exploring their passion for waterfowl hunting and their work to create a Central Flyway oasis for migrating birds.

DU Films

Watch now »  |  View all at ducks.org/DUFilms »

Corporate Partner Spotlight

DU Partners

View all DU partners »

Waterfowl Recipe

Grilling Ducks and Geese

Waterfowl Recipe

Get the full recipe »

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Newsletter Editor: Chris Jennings
Director, Internet Services: Anthony Jones
Newsletter Advertising: Beth Bryan
Newsletter Designer: Jenifer Barron Yates

Mission: Ducks Unlimited conserves, restores and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America's waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people. Our vision is wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.

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