Ducks Unlimited Podcast

Hear how a carver–painter duo learned the craft together, built a collection, and now run one of Illinois’ longest‑running decoy shows.

Host Katie Burke talks with John and Amy Sarver—carvers, collectors, and organizers of the Henry Decoy Show—about their path into waterfowl art, carving as a team, and growing a younger decoy community.

John grew up on the Illinois River surrounded by hunters and collectors, while Amy came from an artistic family with early exposure to Mississippi River decoys. They share how Pat Gregory pushed them into carving, how painting and sculpting became a shared language, and why they’re committed to keeping regional traditions alive. The pair also reflect on shows, mentors, travel hunts, and how inspiration from wild birds translates into their work.
Takeaways:
How childhood exposure to Illinois and Mississippi River traditions shaped their collecting
Why Pat Gregory’s push got the whole family carving—and why their first decoys “weren’t round”
How Amy’s art background fuels both painting and wildlife study
The history, growth, and youth engagement of the 58‑year‑old Henry Decoy Show
Hunting trips—from Alaska to California—that influence their carving and painting
What it’s like being featured carvers as a young team in the craft

Learn how pro waterfowl photographer Phil Kahnke scouts, sets up, and times the moment for jaw‑dropping duck images—and how it improves your hunting.

Host Matt Harrison interviews photographer and lifelong hunter Phil Kahnke, known for striking waterfowl images and a methodical, hunt-first approach behind the lens.

Kahnke traces his path from a hand‑me‑down film camera to modern digital work, explaining why his scouting mirrors a duck hunt and why perfect light, wind, and hide are non‑negotiable. He shares close calls on the ice, gear he won’t work without, and why hiding is the single most underrated factor for success—whether you carry a gun or a camera.
Takeaways:
The one moment that proved he could make magazine‑quality images
Why success is “10x harder than a duck hunt” and how he prepares
Hiding as the critical skill: getting birds below the horizon
Light, wind, access, and backgrounds—how he chooses a spot
Pintails as the wariest, redheads as camera‑friendly, and why cans thrill him
Ethics in wildlife photography: wild birds, wild places, honest portrayal

Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
Send feedback: [email protected]
SPONSORS:
Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.
Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:
Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Lt. John Nores, Jr. (Retired) from California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) discusses his most recent book, Hidden War: How Special Operations Game Wardens are reclaiming America’s wildlands from drug cartels. Nores Jr., talks about issues with water, wildlife, and how California game wardens dealt with an attack on public and private lands by drug cartels, and how the issue continues across the U.S.
Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
Send feedback: [email protected]
SPONSORS:
Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.
Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:
Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Discover how a Crisfield carver kept Chesapeake Bay decoy traditions alive—and what he learned from the legends.

Host Katie Burke sits down with Oliver “Tuts” Lawson, a master decoy maker who grew up in the Ward brothers’ shop and spent decades shaping waterfowl art and heritage.

From carving his first birds at age eight to repairing hunting decoys for Eastern Shore clubs, Lawson shares stories of mentorship, craftsmanship, and community. Hear how oil paints, raised wings, and open-door shops defined a culture—and why preserving tradition matters more than chasing ribbons.
Takeaways:
How Oliver Lawson learned carving and painting from Lem and Steve Ward
Why oil paint creates depth and patina unmatched by modern acrylics
The evolution from hunting decoys to ornamental birds—and why he returned to gunning style
How early carvers shared techniques versus today’s secretive approach
Stories behind rare swans, auctions, and the founding of the Ward Foundation
Why tradition and accessibility keep decoy carving alive

Find out why mild weather and drought are reshaping waterfowl migration—and what hunters can do now.

Hosts Matt Harrison and Dr. Jared Henson break down the latest Ducks Unlimited migration alerts across the Chesapeake Bay, New York, and the Central Flyway.

This episode dives into why some regions are stacked with birds while others struggle, how weather patterns and habitat conditions influence duck and goose movement, and what late-season hunters should expect. From drought in the Chesapeake to ice challenges in New York and warm spells in the Dakotas, learn how these factors impact success and strategy.
SIGN UP FOR MIGRATION ALERTS HERE!

Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
Send feedback: [email protected]
SPONSORS:
Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.
Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:
Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.