Delta Waterfowl Summer Issue Celebrates Duck Dogs

If you’re a member of The Duck Hunters Organization, then a special “duck dogs” edition of Delta Waterfowl magazine will arrive soon!

If you prefer the company of a wet-nosed companion or often find yourself lost in daydreams of bumper work and line drills, then you’re in luck: The Summer 2024 Issue of Delta Waterfowl magazine is headed your way! This special “duck dogs” edition of the award-winning membership publication celebrates the special bond between hunter and retriever.

“Delta Waterfowl members collectively own more than 75,000 duck dogs,” said editor Kyle Wintersteen, who owns a pair of springer spaniels. “The summer issue is an annual treat that pays tribute to our dogs with a range of content from training how-tos and gripping tales of hunts—and dogs—gone-by to world-class retriever photography.”

We all know those retrieves—the ones you offer up whenever talk arises of the best dog work folks have seen. “In Dogs We Trust” by Anthony Hauck provides thrilling accounts of dogs saving the day when all hope of recovering ducks seemed lost. It’s a testament to the devotion between hunter and dog, and we bet it’ll cause you to reminisce on your own proud moments with retrievers past and present.

Got 10 minutes? Then you can build a better retriever. In “Quick Drills for Lifelong Skills,” Duck Dogs columnist and Delta communications director Bill Miller reveals three quick, daily training routines that can be run nearly anywhere.

We challenge you to leaf through this issue’s photo feature, “Promise of a Pup,” by superb photographer Mark L. Atwater, without cracking a smile. Enjoy reminiscing on the wonderfully exhausting puppy stage, when your rational brain gives in to irrational optimism for the hunts ahead.

Now here’s a fun one: In the summer edition of the Delta Quiz, a tongue-in-cheek series of questions will help you answer, “What Percent Duck Dog Are You?” If you score higher than 95%, call a veterinarian because you sir are a Labrador.

Ever find yourself curious about the high number of drakes in passing flocks? You aren’t alone: Multiple studies suggest the drake-to-hen sex ratio is widening. However, while most hunters probably aren’t complaining, in “More Drakes Than Ever,” Delta senior manager of communications Paul Wait reveals why this could be a case of having too much of a good thing—and how hunting could help restore balance.

In “What’s Wrong With Mallards?” Brian Lovett investigates recent population declines for North America’s most common duck species. Lovett reveals expert insights into the contributing factors while also touting potential solutions.

Next, in “The Science of Making More Ducks,” Delta’s waterfowl scientist, Dr. Chris Nicolai, explores Delta’s ambitious roster of cutting-edge research, which aims to enhance duck production, improve population monitoring, and so much more.

Looking for an adventure? Roll up your shirtsleeves and get your boots muddy in “Ontario’s September Skeins” by Delta staff writer, Christy Sweigart. Go along for the ride through Canada’s late-summer fields of emerald green while sharing in an experience of once-in-a-lifetime luck (hint: Jack Miner). Plus, Brad Fenson takes you to Saskatchewan in “Control the Airspace,” in which he explains how “sweating the small stuff” can make a world of difference when setting your spread.

You’ll also get a preview of Delta Waterfowl’s upcoming Duck Hunters Expo, to be held July 26 to 28 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Buy your tickets now—you don’t want to miss North America’s largest event dedicated to ducks and duck hunting!

As always, the summer issue carries a full slate of informative and entertaining columns such as Shotgunning, Strategies, Duck Dogs, Waterfowl Chef, and Last Pass to help you get the most from your waterfowl season.

The only way to receive Delta Waterfowl magazine is to join The Duck Hunters Organization. If you are a member, thank you for your support. The retriever-packed summer issue will arrive soon!

To join Delta Waterfowl, call (888) 987-3695 or visit https://deltawaterfowl.org/memberships/.