Training vs. Reality: Bridging the Gap with Blind Retrieves

The whole Upduck gang is finally back together, and they’re joined by a special guest: Ben Fretz from North Country Sporting Dogs up in Alberta, Canada. Ben dives deep into the world of Hungarian Wirehaired Vizslas—how this rare, versatile breed works in the uplands, waterfowl blinds, and even on big game. From the breed’s young history to its tiny worldwide numbers, he shares what it takes to develop a solid line, why cooperation is this breed’s superpower, and how they compare to German Wirehairs and smooth-coated Vizslas. Expect great stories about running dogs in the foothills, dealing with Canadian bureaucracy, crossing the border with pups, and chasing every critter Alberta has to offer.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The guys sit down with Tony Smith and Aaron from Red Cedar Retrievers to break down what it’s like running your very first hunt test. Tony shares how he went from barely knowing what a winger is to passing his first tests, what went right, what went sideways, and the rookie lessons learned along the way. From holding blind wrestling matches and the “junior scoop” trick to handling real flyers and sticking to standards, it’s an honest look at training a gun dog while balancing family life, T-ball games, and a full plate. If you’ve ever wondered what to expect when you step to the line for the first time — or just want to feel seen about your own hunt test screw-ups — this episode’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We take a new approach in this episode where we focus on real world hunting scenarios and how they translate (or don’t) to the training field. Matt and Tyler break down the disconnect between off-season drills and what actually happens in the marsh, with a focus on blind retrieves. From 20 yard real life retrieves to 100+ yard training setups, we unpack what your retriever is learning in the field, and how to recalibrate for the season ahead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Topics include a controversial land use proposal making its way through the Senate, an impressive upland bird season in the Midwest, and regulatory changes shaping the upcoming teal season in the Southeast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this jam-packed episode of the Upduck Podcast, we sit down with legendary waterfowl photographer and hunter Phil Kahnke to cover everything from epic boat blind strategies to balancing a camera with a shotgun. Phil dives into his early roots in southern Minnesota, how duck dogs changed his hunting style, and why concealment trumps everything. We also break down his calling philosophy, the “Super Bowl” of hunt tests, and how not to brush in a blind. Whether you're building your first duck boat or trying to shoot clean limits without sky-blasting the marsh, this is your masterclass in getting it done right. 📸 Plus: hot takes on duck photography, boat building, donut preferences, and why he's sticking with hot chocolate in the blind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We sit down with Keith Warnke, R3 Coordinator for the Midwest Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, to dive into the real issues shaping the future of hunting. From hunter recruitment and reactivation to funding shortfalls and the social image of hunters, Keith breaks it all down with clarity and conviction. We talk conservation, access, splash limits, and how the words and images we choose as hunters impact public perception. It’s not about trophies—it’s about staying relevant, having fun, and making sure the next generation wants to go along for the ride. Also: NA beers, coffee snobbery, and why hunting on a Packer Sunday might be your best bet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re back with two key updates this week: 1️⃣ A snapshot of North American waterfowl breeding habitat conditions, based on Delta Waterfowl’s latest report—some regions are off to a strong start, while others raise concerns. 2️⃣ Details on the 2025 Waterfowl Hunters Expo in Oshkosh, WI, now expanded to two days! Plus, don’t miss the Father’s Day BOGO ticket special running June 4–16. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

fter 15+ years of building some of the most rugged duck hunting gear in the business, Zach Hoeschen of Backwater Inc. joins the Upduck crew again to talk all things boats, motors, dogs, and the evolving world of duck hunting rigs. From long tail mud motors and custom hull builds to American-made trailers and a sneak peek at electric motors, Zach dives deep into what makes Backwater tick. We cover: The difference between long tails and surface drives—and when one wins over the other How Backwater’s custom boats are optimized for performance, not flash Why electric long tails might be the future for quiet, regulation-friendly hunts Zach’s take on building gear that actually lasts—because he beats the hell out of it himself Pheasant hunting, pudelpointers, and his growing addiction to upland Whether you're building your first duck boat or drooling over your next upgrade, this one’s packed with insights for every kind of waterfowler. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Upduck crew sits down with Zack Weaver of RedBeards Waterfowl Outfitters to break down Oklahoma’s controversial new hunting laws, including a proposed $543 price tag for non-residents to hunt public land. Zack shares how these changes could impact guides, hunters, and local economies—and why he’s sticking to a “homies-only” hiring policy. From goose snack sticks and veteran-run outfits to wild dog stories and frozen duck ponds, this one’s got it all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The boys are back with turkey tales, training wins, and some serious talk about waterfowl policy. Jeff recaps a frustrating but memorable hunt with his nephew—and stress-tests his new turkey rig in brutal spring weather. Meanwhile, Tyler celebrates a win with his dog Mack at a field trial event, and then teases out big questions about changing hunter access laws. The crew digs into the vetoed Kansas bill that aimed to limit non-resident waterfowl hunting days, weighing its implications on local economies, public land pressure, and the future of DIY hunting. It’s equal parts laughs, insight, and a warning shot for what could be coming to a state near you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices