The Migration Waterfowl Podcast

Brian Halbleib
  • 4.8 (34)
  • Wilderness
  • Updated Weekly

The Migration Waterfowl Podcast is for serious duck and goose hunters who want more than just another hunting story. Hosted by Brian Halbleib, the show brings together experienced hunters, industry leaders, conservationists, guides, and outdoor innovators for honest conversations about every aspect of waterfowl hunting. From hunting tactics and gear to conservation, travel destinations, and the issues shaping our future, every episode is designed to make you a better-informed hunter. Based in western Pennsylvania—where the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways overlap—Brian also travels throughout North America in pursuit of new waterfowl experiences, bringing listeners along through conversations with some of the most respected voices in the sport. Whether you're chasing early-season teal, late-season mallards, Canada geese, or planning your next bucket-list hunt, you'll find authentic discussions, practical knowledge, and a genuine passion for waterfowl hunting every week. No gimmicks. No gatekeeping. Just real conversations for people who live for the migration.

  1. 6d ago

    EP. 120: Duck Hunting Is Changing - Are You Paying Attention? with Matt Zvolanek

    Waterfowl hunting is changing, and hunters need to be paying attention. Matt Zvolanek, host of the High Prairie Sportsmen YouTube channel, returns to the Migration Waterfowl Podcast and joins your host Brian Halbleib for a wide-ranging conversation about some of the biggest issues facing waterfowl hunters today. We dive into the ongoing fight over public lands and hunting access, threats to wetlands in the Prairie Pothole Region, the controversy surrounding drain tile and conservation easements, and the growing number of states and provinces placing tighter restrictions on nonresident waterfowl hunters. We also tackle hunting pressure, the increasing commercialization of access, and an uncomfortable question for those of us who create hunting content: has social media contributed to some of the problems we're now facing? Matt also shares what he's seeing after another two seasons in the field, how waterfowl migration and hunting have changed over the years, and what decades of experience have taught him about continuing to learn and adapt as a hunter. Most importantly, we look ahead. Are we doing enough to protect the habitat, public access and hunting opportunities that previous generations handed down to us—and what will waterfowl hunting look like for the next generation if we don't? This is about more than killing ducks. It's about protecting the future of waterfowl hunting. Feel free to reach out to us: 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 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 Ammo 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

    EP. 120: Duck Hunting Is Changing - Are You Paying Attention? with Matt Zvolanek

  2. Aug 6

    EP. 119: Don't Drain The Duck Factory with Dr. Mike Brasher & Dr. Scott Stephens

    For generations, duck hunters have invested in the future of waterfowl through Duck Stamps, hunting licenses, excise taxes, and conservation organizations like Ducks Unlimited. But what happens when wetlands hunters have already paid to protect could still be at risk? On this episode of the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib is joined by Dr. Mike Brasher, Senior Waterfowl Scientist, and Dr. Scott Stephens, Senior Director of Conservation Strategy at Ducks Unlimited, to discuss the "Don't Drain the Duck Factory" campaign and a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service rule currently under review. Together, they break down what the Prairie Pothole Region—known as North America's "Duck Factory"—means to the future of waterfowl, how voluntary wetland easements work, what tile drainage is, and why Ducks Unlimited believes maintaining the current rule is critical to protecting habitat that supports millions of ducks each year. Whether you're a lifelong duck hunter or simply care about the future of wetlands and waterfowl conservation, this episode will help you better understand the science, the policy, and what's at stake for our hunting heritage. Topics discussed include: Why the Prairie Pothole Region is called the "Duck Factory" How federal wetland easements protect critical habitat What tile drainage is and how it affects wetlands The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's 2024 rule and why it's under review What repealing the rule could mean for waterfowl and duck hunters How hunters can make their voices heard Learn more about the Don't Drain the Duck Factory campaign and how to participate in the public comment process at ducks.org/save-the-duck-factory. If you enjoy the Migration Waterfowl Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another duck hunter. Protecting the future of waterfowl starts with informed hunters. Feel free to reach out to us: 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 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

    EP. 119: Don't Drain The Duck Factory with Dr. Mike Brasher & Dr. Scott Stephens

  3. Jul 30

    EP. 118: The Road to Duck Season | Road Trip to the Ducks Unlimited Expo

    Road trips have a way of creating conversations you never could have planned. In this special episode, your host Brian Halbleib is joined by Damien Pittman of Punisher Waterfowl as they hit the highway together on the way to the Ducks Unlimited Expo in Memphis. What starts as a casual conversation from the cab of a pickup quickly turns into a wide-ranging discussion about the excitement of a new waterfowl season, the friendships that make this community special, and why getting together in person still matters in a world driven by social media. Brian and Damien also share their thoughts on the latest gear hitting the market, what they're looking forward to seeing at the Expo, and why networking, supporting one another, and surrounding yourself with good people has been one of the biggest blessings of their careers. The conversation also dives into bigger topics facing waterfowl hunters today, including habitat loss, conservation, Ducks Unlimited's role in protecting our wetlands, public land issues, and the future of hunting in North America. Whether you're counting down the days until opening morning or simply looking for an honest conversation between two passionate waterfowlers, this episode captures the anticipation, camaraderie, and optimism that make this time of year so special. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in for the ride, and join us as we head south toward Memphis and another waterfowl season that's just around the corner. Feel free to reach out to us: 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 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

    EP. 118: The Road to Duck Season | Road Trip to the Ducks Unlimited Expo

  4. Jul 23

    EP. 117: The Best Waterfowl Hunters Never Stop Learning

    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: 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 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

    EP. 117: The Best Waterfowl Hunters Never Stop Learning

  5. Jul 16

    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 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

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

  6. Jul 9

    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 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

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

  7. Jul 2

    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 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

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

  8. Jun 25

    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 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

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

The Migration Waterfowl Podcast is for serious duck and goose hunters who want more than just another hunting story. Hosted by Brian Halbleib, the show brings together experienced hunters, industry leaders, conservationists, guides, and outdoor innovators for honest conversations about every aspect of waterfowl hunting. From hunting tactics and gear to conservation, travel destinations, and the issues shaping our future, every episode is designed to make you a better-informed hunter. Based in western Pennsylvania—where the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways overlap—Brian also travels throughout North America in pursuit of new waterfowl experiences, bringing listeners along through conversations with some of the most respected voices in the sport. Whether you're chasing early-season teal, late-season mallards, Canada geese, or planning your next bucket-list hunt, you'll find authentic discussions, practical knowledge, and a genuine passion for waterfowl hunting every week. No gimmicks. No gatekeeping. Just real conversations for people who live for the migration.

Information

  • Creator
    Brian Halbleib
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    120
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024-26 The Migration Waterfowl Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Migration Waterfowl Podcast

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