Delta Waterfowl’s Spring Issue ‘Saddles Up’ to Advance Science, Explores Smaller Spreads to Hunt Snow Geese

Are you a member of The Duck Hunters Organization? Then your Spring Issue of Delta Waterfowl magazine arrives soon!

Armed with topics guaranteed to suit every waterfowler’s passion, the Spring 2024 Issue of Delta Waterfowl magazine is making its way to mailboxes and digital subscribers.

A stunning cover image by Delta senior manager of communications, Paul Wait sets the tone for our cover story, “Building a Better Brood Survey.” Join Wait in Saskatchewan, where his words will place you amid cutting-edge Delta research into the use of duck monitoring technology including drones, nasal saddles, and radio transmitters. The study promises to improve methods of estimating duck production and, ultimately, the fall duck flight.

In “The Case for Researched, Refined Predator Management,” Delta’s communications director, Bill Miller, and waterfowl scientist, Dr. Chris Nicolai, provide an in-depth, science-based argument for aggressively expanding Delta’s Predator Management. The goal? Maximizing duck nest success by regaining natural balance on the prairies.

Searching for ways to decrease the workload of hunting spring snow geese? M.D. Johnson has you covered in “Going Small for Snows.” Find tips on how to set a successful small(er) spread, including specific strategies and important considerations.

A possible instant classic, “Maternity Waders” by Melissa Hendrickson highlights the challenges faced when an approaching delivery date overlapped with duck season. Join her as the mother-to-be adapts and overcomes—resulting in one-of-a-kind, pregnancy-ready waders and an enjoyable hunting season.

With duck season in the rearview, Phil Kahnke’s photo feature, “Before First Light,” brings us back to reminisce on the magic of waterfowling’s simplicities. Through the thoughtfully selected images (clearly, no bias here), you can feel the quiet and calm that accompany the countdown to shooting light and the anticipation for whatever magic the morning may bring.

“Starting at the Top” by Jack Hirt is a tale of longtime friends savoring exceptional waterfowl hunting through the lens of a newcomer. The result: A heartwarming introduction to all that waterfowling brings—on the best and worst of days.

Are you a fan of “Mr. Hollywood?” Then the humorous “In Defense of Spoonbills” by Ron Peach was crafted just for you. Join Peach’s pro-shoveler “rally” as he explains why these stunning ducks bring smiles and deserve our respect.

As always, the Spring Issue carries a full slate of informative and entertaining columns such as Duck Dogs, Shotgunning, Strategies, Waterfowl Chef, and Duckology 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 Spring Issue will arrive soon!

To join Delta Waterfowl, Call (888) 987-3695 or visit www.deltawaterfowl.org/memberships. —Christy Sweigart