The North American Waterfowler - podcast cover

The North American Waterfowler

Elliott Snider
The North American Waterfowler Podcast was established on January 1, 2023. Hosted by Elliott Snider, creator of the Freelance Duck Hunting YouTube channel and former co-host of The Duck Gun Podcast. This podcast will bring you content on every aspect of Waterfowl Hunting.
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Episodes

Episode #199 Training Dogs the Right Way with Ray Voigt

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler, Elliott sits down with Ray Voigt — longtime professional dog trainer and current Senior Specialist with Purina Pro Plan. Ray shares his journey from training his first retriever at age 14 to spending 15 years under legendary trainer Mike Lardy, helping produce more than 50 field champions. They dive deep into training philosophy, the value of pressure-based systems, and the differences between HRC, AKC, and field trials. Ray also shares advice o...

Jun 30, 20251 hr 6 min

Episode #198 Teacher, Coach, Hunter, Maker: The Story Behind Chase McCullough and Shotty Gear

In this episode, Elliott sits down with Chase McCullough—teacher, baseball coach, duck hunter, and the founder of Shotty Gear. They dive into Chase’s journey from coaching Little League to starting a gear company that’s now supplying waterfowl hunters across the country. The two talk about balancing teaching with outdoor passion, layout boat hunting strategies, how Shotty Gear got started, and what it takes to build reliable gear without the big-brand price tag. If you’re into duck hunting, gear...

Jun 26, 20251 hr 20 min

Episode #197 Louisiana Culture, VooDoo, Catfish Can-Fishing, and More w/ Nate Verdin

Nate Verdin from Falling Tide TV returns to the show for an unfiltered conversation about the Louisiana lifestyle, harvesting wild game year-round, and the spiritual journey that led him to Christ. We dive deep into the Cajun culture of the bayou, explore fascinating methods like catfish can-lining, and talk about what it means to provide for your family in a way that's rooted in tradition and purpose. Nate also opens up for the first time publicly about his decision to pursue baptism and a clos...

Jun 23, 20251 hr 36 min

Episode #196 Waterfowl Talk, Gear Drops, and Listener Questions

This week I reflect on our incredible Kansas River float trip with the Patreon crew and share some exciting updates, including details on our Flight Day duck hunt giveaway, the Weatherby 18i shotgun giveaway, free OnX Hunt subscriptions, and more. I read a heartfelt update from Jeffrey — the listener who wrote in a few episodes ago about his spiritual journey — and share some thoughts on faith and community. We also run through listener-submitted questions and close it out with another Woody’s T...

Jun 19, 20251 hr 9 min

Episode #195 Sandbar Stories: A Podcast from the Kansas River

We’re coming to you straight from the Kansas River. This episode was recorded during our annual Patreon float trip—on a sandbar, with the sun setting, and the sound of the river behind us. Join us as we recap the trip, share stories from the water, and talk about what made this year’s float one to remember. If you’ve ever wondered what it's like to be out here with us, this episode is the next best thing. Flight Day Ammunition – Premium bismuth and steel waterfowl loads. Use code FDH10 for 10% o...

Jun 16, 202556 min

Episode #194 Timber Holes, Teal Hunts, and Chainsaw Adventures w/ Brian Halblieb

Brian Halblieb from the Migration Waterfowl Podcast drove 12 hours to help out at Myers Family Farms—and stopped by for a return visit on the North American Waterfowler. He and Elliott talk about Brian’s growth as a waterfowler and podcaster, the power of hunting friendships rooted in faith, and their favorite moments from the 2024 season. From chasing blue-wing teal in Nebraska to setting new goals for hunts, shot selection, and bird recovery, it’s a conversation full of stories, insights, and ...

Jun 12, 202559 min

Episode #193 Josh Peck Returns: Guiding, Fatherhood & Finding Balance

🎧 Episode Description: In this episode, I sit down with longtime friend and fellow creator Josh Peck from Outdoor Limits. We catch up on life, fatherhood, and how becoming a dad has reshaped his outlook on hunting, fishing, and content creation. Josh talks about starting his own fishing guide service, pivoting away from the YouTube grind, and rediscovering his passion for walleye fishing. We also talk about how recent Kansas filming restrictions have impacted public land hunters, and Josh share...

Jun 09, 20251 hr 29 min

Episode #192 How Much Does My Wife Beth Know About Duck Hunting?

🎙 Episode Description: This week on The North American Waterfowler, I’m joined by my wife for a fun and slightly risky waterfowl trivia game. She’s lived with a duck hunter long enough—surely some of it’s rubbed off, right? We go head-to-head with 20+ trivia questions covering duck species, gear, hunting laws, and some deeper cuts. Play along and see how many you know… and how many she pretends to know. 🧢 Partner Reads: Flight Day Ammunition – Bismuth loads that hit hard and pattern tight. Whe...

Jun 05, 202523 min

Episode # 191 If I Could Start Over as a Waterfowler…

What would I do differently if I could go back to day one as a duck hunter? In this episode, I break down five things I would absolutely change if I had the chance to start over—mistakes I made, lessons I learned the hard way, and the little details that make the biggest difference in the field. Whether you’re a new waterfowler or a seasoned hunter, these reflections might just change how you approach your next hunt. Flight Day Ammunition Premium bismuth and high-performance steel waterfowl load...

Jun 02, 202544 min

Episode #190 Wisdom from the Blind: Scott Vix on Hunting Right, Living Right

From California duck clubs to Idaho fields, Scott Vix has seen it all—and he’s back to share lessons from 40 years of chasing birds. In this conversation, we talk shot ethics, sub-gauge controversy, and the mindset of hunters who last. Scott explains how to earn a spot in someone’s blind (and keep it), what makes a great partner or spouse, and why calling ducks isn’t just about sound—it’s about respect. One of the most well-rounded and honest duck hunting convos we’ve had on the show. 🎯 Podcast...

May 29, 20251 hr 31 min

Episode #189 Georgie’s Master Test Pass at Flint Oak + Training Talk & Comment of the Week

It’s May 26, 2025, and Elliott is fired up and not slowing down. In this episode, he breaks down Georgie’s AKC Master Hunt Test weekend at Flint Oak, one of the most unique venues around. From fine dining to thunder delays to tight whistle stops, Elliott shares every moment of the three-series challenge, including the bank cheating drama that almost cost them a pass. He also takes on a critical Facebook comment in “Comment of the Week,” digging into why training dogs not to run the bank is about...

May 27, 20251 hr

Episode #188 Woody Returns: Float Trip Talk and Top 5 Wild Game to Eat

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler, Elliott is joined by longtime friend Woody for a full-length catch-up session. They break down the upcoming Patreon float trip, share stories about why wood ducks are misunderstood, and debut Woody’s original song “Good Duck.” Then it’s time for Woody’s Top 5, where he ranks his favorite wild game meats. From crappie to venison, this list stirs up some strong opinions and classic backwoods storytelling. Want to join the float trip or enter the s...

May 22, 202541 min

Episode #187 Reflecting on the Golden Era of FDH + Georgie’s 2025 Hunt Test Journey

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, Elliott responds to a long-time subscriber’s comment that sparks a deep dive into the early years of Freelance Duck Hunting. He reflects on the unforgettable crew of Dan, Aiden, and Fumbles, and how the channel has changed since those early, personality-packed seasons. Then Elliott transitions into Georgie’s 2025 hunt test journey—recapping their recent HRC run, breaking down her progress toward the AKC Master Hunter title, and sharing i...

May 19, 20251 hr 9 min

Episode #186 Solo Duck Hunts, Full Immersion, and a Listener’s Letter That Hit Home

In this heartfelt solo episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, Elliott Snider responds to a powerful listener letter that opens the door to deep conversations on solo hunting, spiritual growth, and finding purpose in the marsh. He unpacks how full immersion hunting has restored him through seasons of personal struggle, and gives detailed advice to new hunters trying to succeed on their own—including a boots-on-the-ground blueprint for breaking into public land waterfowling. Elliott al...

May 15, 20251 hr 9 min

Episode #185 Public Land Passion and the Future of the Great Salt Lake

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler, I’m joined by longtime listener and passionate hunter Ben Kraja, a U.S. Forest Service liaison and board member for the Utah chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. Ben brings deep insight into hunting the Great Salt Lake—one of the Pacific Flyway’s most important waterfowl ecosystems. We talk about: The variety and pressure of Utah’s public waterfowl management areas Hunting with coffin blinds and silhouettes on the open salt flats How br...

May 08, 20251 hr 20 min

Episode #184 Washington Duck Days and Goose Limits: Talking Hunts with Alex Wilson

In this episode, Elliott sits down with Alex Wilson from Washington—his top bucket list state—to talk about life in the Pacific Northwest, chasing ducks and geese across flooded fields, and what it’s like hunting with his black lab, Buster. They break down the differences between east and west Washington, debate whether black or yellow labs hide better, and swap stories about late-season greenheads, layout boat struggles, and the universal duck hunter rule: never pick up early. It’s a passionate...

May 01, 20251 hr 5 min

Episode #183 From Rock Bottom to Redemption: Jason Williams' Story

In this powerful episode, Elliott sits down with Jason Williams, author of Committed to the Call, a 365-day devotional written specifically for waterfowl hunters. Jason shares how God radically transformed his life—taking him from hard-hearted corrections officer to minister of the gospel—and how the stillness of the marsh became the backdrop for his most meaningful encounters with Christ. If you're a waterfowler who's ever felt God tugging on your heart while in the blind, this one is for you. ...

Apr 24, 20251 hr 11 min

Episode #182 Is Duck Hunting Dying? My Honest Take + Listener Q&A

In this mid-April episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, Elliott introduces a major new feature in the NAW app: the hunt satisfaction score. He shares how it works, how he scored his last two seasons, and what it reveals about enjoying hunts beyond just bird numbers. Then he dives into listener questions, covering drone use, hunting pressure, choosing coves on windy days, public access, his love for the 20-gauge, and the recent Kansas non-resident bill. He also reflects on moments of...

Apr 21, 20251 hr 7 min

Episode #181 Wood Ducks, Hunt Tests, and Carolina Duck Hunting W/ David Plyler

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler, Elliott sits down with David Plyler, a passionate duck hunter from North Carolina who’s combining his love of waterfowl with off-season conservation work. David shares how building and maintaining wood duck boxes has helped increase local populations on his lease and public land. The two dive deep into their shared experiences with HRC and AKC hunt tests, training high-drive Labradors, and what it’s like hunting wood ducks in the Carolinas. Plus...

Apr 17, 202559 min

Episode #180 What the Hell is Going on with Bismuth? W/ Ben Myers

In this Patreon live stream episode, Elliott sits down with Ben Meyers—owner of Flight Day Ammunition—for one of the most raw, transparent conversations they’ve ever had on the podcast. The guys kick it off with personal updates, teaching talk, and bourbon mishaps before diving deep into hunting dogs, last season’s hits and misses, and the exciting future of Flight Day Ammo. Ben reveals the shocking truth behind the bismuth shortage, explains why Flight Day is shifting away from bismuth, and dro...

Apr 10, 20251 hr 19 min

Episode #179 Art Diaz Talks Photography, Hearing Loss, and Hunting Ethics

In this episode, Elliott sits down with Art Diaz—waterfowl photographer, former touring musician, and current rep for Alclair Outdoors. They talk about Art’s journey from playing guitar on the road to chasing ducks with a camera in hand. Art shares how he got into waterfowl photography, his experience with dog training, and the tough decision to part ways with his first lab. They also dive into hearing protection, how Alclair custom molds work, and the rise of non-resident hunting restrictions a...

Apr 02, 20251 hr 16 minSeason 1Ep. 179

Episode #178 Non-Residents Shut Out? Flooded Corn Under Fire (Deep Dive)

In this explosive episode, Elliott sits down with Rusty Fix to tackle two of the most controversial topics in modern waterfowling: the looming restrictions on non-resident hunters in Kansas and the impact of flooded corn on duck migration. Is Kansas really about to ban non-residents from hunting public land except Sunday through Tuesday? And is Missouri's flooded corn to blame for birds bypassing the South? Rusty brings his deep knowledge and candid insights to the table in a conversation that g...

Mar 27, 20251 hr 40 minSeason 1Ep. 178

Episode #176 Surviving Tough Hunts & Loving the Grind with Tyler Grethen

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, I’m joined by Tyler Grethen, Marketing Manager at Weatherby. We dive into his journey from growing up in Missouri to becoming an avid hunter in the West. Tyler shares his experiences chasing big game, upland birds, and waterfowl, along with his love for tough, physically demanding hunts. We also discuss solo hunting, the challenges of balancing a hunting lifestyle with relationships, and his path into the outdoor industry. Sponsors: 🎯 F...

Mar 20, 20251 hr 10 minSeason 1Ep. 175

Episode #175 Has Flooded Corn Changed the Migration? w/Bret Travis

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, Elliott is joined by patron and friend Bret Travis to dive deep into the changing migration patterns and the impact of flooded corn on duck movement. They discuss whether ducks are being artificially held north and what that means for Southern waterfowlers. This episode is brought to you by our great partners: 🔹 Flight Day Ammunition – Get 10% off your bismuth loads at FlightDayAmmo.com with code FDH10 🔹 AlClair – Protect your hearing ...

Mar 13, 20251 hr 14 min

Episode #174 Can AI Settle Hunting Debates? A ChatGPT Experiment

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, I dive into a full-on debate with ChatGPT, challenging AI on key waterfowl hunting topics. We cover the ethics of promoting hunting on social media, out-of-state hunting pressure, the never-ending steel vs. bismuth debate, and whether so-called "trash ducks" deserve their reputation. I also share insights on overcoming shooting slumps and discuss controversial regulations like shell limits and afternoon hunting bans. Plus, I talk about h...

Mar 10, 202554 min

Episode #173 From Georgia to the Bootheel: Todd Day’s Waterfowl Journey

In this episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, Patreon guest Todd Day joins Elliott to talk all things waterfowl, from retriever training to hunting the Bootheel of Missouri. Todd shares his journey from growing up in Georgia to leasing prime hunting land, the evolution of his dog training knowledge, and the impact of his uncle’s championship retriever. Elliott and Todd also discuss the differences in hunting styles, the role of Christian faith in history, and what makes a great hunt...

Mar 06, 20251 hr 2 min

Episode #172 Hunting Snow Geese: Is It Worth the Effort? With High Prairie Sportsman

Snow goose hunting is one of the most challenging pursuits in waterfowling, but for those who love the chase, the reward is worth it. In this episode, I sit down with Matt Zavala Nick from High Prairie Sportsman to break down the strategies, struggles, and success rates of hunting snow geese. We talk about decoy spreads, the unpredictability of fields, and whether the grind is really worth it. Plus, we discuss our 2024 waterfowl seasons, the best states for duck hunting, and whether shooting hen...

Mar 03, 20251 hr 10 min

Episode #171 The Rise and Fall of the Timber Queen with Jordan Fromer

In this special episode of The North American Waterfowler Podcast, I’m joined by my good friend and fellow podcaster, YouTuber, and entrepreneur, Jordan Fromer. We dive into his wild journey of restoring and hunting from the Timber Queen—a Mississippi River houseboat he brought back to life for an unforgettable waterfowl season. Jordan also shares insights from his first full-time year as a content creator, his biggest takeaways from hunting across multiple states, and the unexpected challenges ...

Feb 19, 202559 minSeason 1Ep. 171

Episode #170 Mastering Water Levels: 5 Tips for Better Duck Hunting + Woody’s Top 5

Understanding water levels is one of the most critical factors in duck hunting success. In this episode, I break down 5 key tips to help you adapt to rising and falling water conditions, predict duck movement, and make the most of your hunting spots. I’ll also share the best flooded timber hunt of my life and how a December flood created the perfect smartweed hotspot. Plus, Woody joins for his Top 5 list to wrap things up. Don’t forget to check out our sponsors: Flight Day Ammunition – Use code ...

Feb 10, 202556 minSeason 1Ep. 170
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