Franz Schnabl began duck hunting at age 10 when his uncle took him to the blind for the first time. Growing up in Corinth in northeast Mississippi, abundant opportunity has fueled his 30-plus year love of waterfowl and hunting. In his desire to give back and make conservation a priority, he founded the Alcorn County Chapter of Delta Waterfowl in 2013.

Schnabl is a graduate of Corinth High School and studied forestry at Northeast Mississippi Community College. An entrepreneur at heart, he opened and managed several new businesses in his hometown.

“I’m extremely passionate about introducing youth and non-hunters to the sport,” he said. “I get excited by the enthusiasm and passion of Delta volunteers to preserve the heritage and future of ducks and duck hunting.”

A self-described “people person,” Schnabl brings knowledge of waterfowling and keen leadership abilities to his role as regional director for Alabama, Florida and Mississippi.

“It’s all about motivating hunters to create their own local chapters to preserve the future of waterfowl hunting for future generations,” he said.

Schnabl’s favorite place to hunt is Canada, but hunting mallards in flooded timber is his favorite style of hunting. His favored hunting companion for many seasons was a now-deeply-missed English springer spaniel named Ringo.

If he’s not hunting or spreading the word about Delta, you can find him socializing with family and friends or traveling to exciting new places. His favorite way to spend the weekend is relaxing on the patio, grilling and entertaining guests. When you meet Schnabl, ask why he’s known to his friends as “Uncle Rico.” There has to be a good story in that!

Contact him at fschnabl@deltawaterfowl.org.