Growing up in the shadow of Niagara Falls, Blake Schmirler knew at an early age the course for his career. Working in the trades, his dream was to turn his passion for waterfowl into his everyday job. Without a biology background, he chose to get involved by volunteering on the fundraising side of the equation.

“I knew this was a way I could make a positive impact in supporting waterfowl,” he said. “It would also be a great way to learn, grow, and develop the skills needed to be a Regional Director. In January, 2019 I realized my goal, and have been enjoying every day since!”

The ability to share his personal adoration and passion for waterfowl and waterfowl hunting excites Schmirler. Passing it along to others and seeing them take off with it gives him great pride. He knows that he is making a difference in waterfowl conservation with every dollar raised.

He sees the most important attributes for a Delta regional director as a positive attitude and consistency.

“I always try to stay calm,” he said. “There are going to be a lot of ups and downs in this job, so being consistent is a priority.”

As for his personal hunting passion, Schmirler says he has a difficult time picking a favorite.

“It’s a tough call,” he said. “One of the great things about living in Ontario is that we have every style of waterfowl hunting available to us, from early season honkers in cut wheat fields to late-season sea ducks on Lake Ontario.”

If forced to choose, “It would be late-season canvasbacks and redheads on Lake Erie,” he said. “There is just something about having ice hanging off your boat and watching those flocks come into the decoys. I wait for those hunts all year long.”

Schmirler enjoys fishing with his dad, playing hockey and baseball, and getting out to ice-fish. More than anything else, he says he enjoys spending time with family and friends making great memories.

Contact him at bschmirler@deltawaterfowl.org.