Delta Waterfowl Announces Tribute Call for 2024 Callmakers Championship in July

Judges have selected the SK Duck Call by legendary callmaker Sonny Kirkpatrick as the call to emulate for The Duck Hunters Expo Competition in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The Delta Waterfowl Duck Hunters Expo is thrilled to host Delta’s annual callmakers competition, presented by Chêne Gear and Treadstone Logistics. The tribute-style competition and open contest division entries will be judged during North America’s largest event dedicated to the duck hunter on July 26-28 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

“The 2023 Delta Waterfowl Callmakers Championship exceeded our expectations in every way,” said James Miller, a founder of the contest. “From the participation of the world’s best callmakers, to what could arguably be considered the best judging pool to ever judge a contest, to the attendees of the expo reception, the event in its entirety was outstanding.”

The tribute-style contest selects a late, distinguished callmaker for competitors to emulate. Three different divisions—wood, acrylic, and an ‘open’ division—will showcase a number of talented participants, with the highest scoring call of all divisions taking home a trophy, cash prize, and the honor of overall champion.

“In keeping with our tradition, we have chosen a call from a legendary callmaker from North Louisiana, the late Sonny Kirkpatrick, as our 2024 tribute call,” said Miller. “Sonny made a fantastic blowing duck call and had quite a following, so we are really looking forward to seeing what the callmakers can do with Sonny’s timeless design. 2024 looks to be the biggest year yet for the Callmakers Championship, and we cannot wait to see everyone in Baton Rouge.”

Another competitor-favorite, the ‘Callmakers Choice’ open division will also return, allowing callmakers to use their choice of material, shape, and more to showcase their workmanship. In addition, a new, open-style ‘Cutdown Contest’ will be available for entry, permitting callmakers to use any materials of their choosing, as long as the cutdown call is handmade.

“The Delta Waterfowl Callmakers Championship is a unique event for attendees to experience and a competitive event for callmakers to take part in,” said Brad Heidel, senior director of corporate relations for Delta. “This competition ties our present-day duck hunters to the rich culture and heritage that waterfowl hunting has been built upon, and we are looking forward to spotlighting the callmakers’ craftsmanship in Baton Rouge.”

The contending calls will be judged over the course of the expansive three-day event. More information regarding entry and contest regulations can be found here.—Christy Sweigart