| In 2026, the March equinox occurs on March 20 at 10:46 a.m. EDT. It falls on a Friday and marks the astronomical beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. However, in my mind – and in the minds of many here in Wisconsin, the first day of spring is March 1.
Spring is an especially busy time for our volunteers.
The majority of our chapters manage sites where they have installed wood duck boxes. |
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| In preparation for the spring migration, these boxes must be inspected for prior-season use and damage, then cleaned out with fresh wood chips added to create a proper nest bowl. Early spring, when the ice is still thick enough to support a person, is the best time to accomplish this task. From personal experience, I can tell you it’s much easier than doing it in waders while busting through the ice (as our Midland Wings Chapter volunteers did last year in the photo above)! |
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More Wisconsin ducks for
Wisconsin duck hunters
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Public Land and the
Democracy of the Hunt
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| With Mark Pfost,
WWA: Public Land Ecologist |
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| The theme of last month’s annual meeting of the Wisconsin Chapter of The Wildlife Society was “Applying the North American Model of Conservation During Divided Times.” I was asked to speak at WCTWS’s symposia on wetland management, and I structured my talk to fit the theme. I wanted to explore the similarities and differences in how the North American Model of Conservation (informally, the Model) applies to whether a particular piece of land is public or private. I also wanted to highlight different WWA projects on state lands, discussing them through the lens of the Model. |
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| The majority of enthusiasts—regardless of their “hat” depend on public lands. We have the power to influence both the quantity and quality of public lands’ habitat. A simple example of this is WWA’s effort to advocate for the continuation of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund.
We’ve also had periods of time—stretching from the days of TR until this very day—in which we have had to protect our public lands from those who would sell them off for this reason or that. Public lands, once lost, will not be regained, and the democracy of the hunt could vanish, acre by acre. |
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| By Todd Schaller:
WWA VP and Education Committee Chair |
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Migratory Season Structure 2026-2030 Survey Results
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| The Advocacy pillar of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s mission is often about members speaking and WWA listening — which is exactly what happened in mid-February.
Earlier in 2026, WWA distributed a survey to gather member input on potential waterfowl season structures for the next five years. The survey results provided important guidance to WWA representatives participating in the Migratory Game Bird Advisory Committee discussions, ensuring that member voices were part of the conversation.
Input gathered through this process will be used to finalize the 2026–2030 season structure proposal, which will then be presented to the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board in April for approval.
Wisconsin’s waterfowl community is fortunate to have a strong, public-driven process for establishing season structures. Don’t miss this opportunity to be involved in shaping what our seasons will look like for the next five years. |
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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 20, 2026
Contact: Alissa Kakatsch, DNR Assistant Turkey and Pheasant Ecologist
Alissa.Kakatsch@wisconsin.gov or 608-576-7559
DNR Seeking Public Input On 2026-2030 Migratory Bird Hunting Season Frameworks
Public Comment Period Open Through March 6
MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking public input on migratory bird hunting season frameworks for the years 2026-2030. Comments can be submitted through various formats (an online comment tool, email or at any of the public hearings) through March 6, 2026.
Historically, waterfowl and migratory bird season frameworks were developed on an annual basis. However, with near-unanimous support from conservation organizations and the public, a new process was developed to set season structures for multiple years at a time. This year is the first time the DNR is doing so.
An online public input form and supporting information are available on the DNR’s Waterfowl Hunting webpage for those interested in submitting comments electronically. Anyone interested in Wisconsin’s migratory bird hunting seasons is encouraged to provide feedback.
Individuals may also submit comments via email to Taylor Finger, DNR gamebird specialist, at Taylor.Finger@wisconsin.gov or Alissa Kakatsch, DNR assistant gamebird specialist, at Alissa.Kakatsch@wisconsin.gov. Comments will be accepted through 11:59 p.m. Friday, March 6, 2026.
The final way people can submit feedback is at one of four public hearings. Three of the public hearings are in-person meetings on March 2, 3 and 5, and the fourth is a virtual session on March 4. After public comments have been collected, a final season structure will go to the Natural Resources Board for approval.
PUBLIC HEARINGS DETAILS
Public Hearing #1
What: 2026–2030 Migratory Bird Hunting Season Public Hearing – La Crosse
When: Monday, March 2, from 7-9 p.m.
Where: DNR Service Center
Rooms B-19 and B-20
3550 Mormon Coulee Rd.
La Crosse, WI 54601
Public Hearing #2
What: 2026–2030 Migratory Bird Hunting Season Public Hearing – Rice Lake
When: Tuesday, March 3, from 7-9 p.m.
Where: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rice Lake
The Knapp Room
824 Bear Paw Ave.
Rice Lake, WI 54868
Public Hearing #3
What: 2026–2030 Migratory Bird Hunting Season Public Hearing – Virtual
When: Wednesday, March 4, from 7-9 p.m.
Where: Virtual via Zoom. Registration is required.
Public Hearing #4
What: 2026–2030 Migratory Bird Hunting Season Public Hearing – Appleton
When: Thursday, March 5, from 7-9 p.m.
Where: Fox Valley Technical College
D.J. Bordini Center, Room BC112A
5 N. Systems Dr.
Appleton, WI 54914 |
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Waterfowl Hunting, Technology, Safety: It’s All Related When The Weather Pitches Windy, Stormy Curve Balls
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| Warden Cody Adams’ Armistice Day Blizzard column in your January newsletter was a compelling history and tragic story demonstrating how it is critical to do safety preparation for and during outdoor activities.
One thing you can never ignore is the weather. It’ll change in a flash as Warden Adams’s history lesson so painfully illustrated to those of us who treasure our time on the water, enjoying our hunts.
His column stayed with me, and I decided to build upon his excellent piece with my column.
In A Duck Blind Since Age 3
Are You Strong Enough To Fight Winds
Weather Demands Your Attention, Apps Help |
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| From small water to big and everything in between, the weather and the changes in the weather throughout the day aren’t only important for how the birds might respond in their migration – it’s important for your safety.
Stay safe and stay tuned to the weather. You know the old saying: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” Then, redo your hunting plan. |
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2026 Waterfowl Hunters EXPO
Bigger Than Ever!!
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| The momentum continues to build for the 6th Annual Waterfowl Hunters EXPO, and 2026 is shaping up to be our biggest year yet.
We’re proud to welcome an incredible lineup of national brands—both returning partners and exciting new additions—who recognize the strength and growth of this event. Industry leaders are already committed to being on the show floor.
We are projecting 200+ vendors, bringing together the best in waterfowl gear, apparel, optics, firearms, boats, blinds, dog equipment, artwork, conservation groups, and more.
The energy, the access, the community — it all comes together this August 21st & 22nd.
Stay tuned. You won’t want to miss it. |
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| Brooke Wagemann,
Outdoor Enthuisast |
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Honey BBQ
Pulled Goose Legs
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There’s nothing more rewarding than bringing your harvest full circle — from the marsh to the table. This month’s Field to Table recipe highlights a delicious way to make the most of your hard-earned birds with Honey BBQ Pulled Goose Legs. Slow-cooked until tender and packed with rich, smoky flavor, this recipe transforms goose into a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for family dinners, game-day gatherings, or sharing with fellow hunters. If you’ve been looking for a new way to enjoy goose, this one is sure to become a favorite.
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Instructions
- Prep the Goose: Pat the goose legs dry. Season generously with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with the homemade BBQ rub, pressing it into the meat.
- Sear: Heat fat in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the legs until deeply browned on both sides. Transfer legs to a slow cooker or Dutch oven.
- Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until soft and lightly caramelized, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook another minute. Pour in apple cider vinegar and stock, scraping up all browned bits from the pan. Stir in tomato paste, BBQ sauce, and honey. Simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Slow Cook: Pour sauce over the goose legs. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls from the bone.
- Shred & Finish: Remove legs and shred the meat, discarding bones and tendons. Skim excess fat from the sauce if needed. Return shredded meat to the sauce and stir until glossy and coated.
- Serve on buns with coleslaw & your favorite BBQ sauce!
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| Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting hunting partners, or introducing someone new to wild game, these Honey BBQ Pulled Goose Legs are a guaranteed hit. Recipes like this remind us that the reward of the hunt goes far beyond the field — it’s about sharing meals, stories, and traditions around the table. Enjoy every bite, and take pride in the harvest that made it possible. |
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| By Bruce Urben, WWA President |
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Orville E. Flater – Decoy Carver From Omro WI
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| Orville Flater hunted waterfowl in the cane beds near Terrell’s island on the western end of Lake Butte Des Morts. He was a hunting partner of Wilbert Koch |
| In the 1950’s, Orville began carving decoys for his use on Butte Des Morts. It is estimated that he carved several hundred decoys for his use and some close friends. He mainly carved bluebills and canvasbacks, but also carved mallards, coots, and teal. Orville attached his heads to the body with a dowel from the bottom of the decoy extending into the head. Almost all of his working decoys have the dowel visible from the bottom of the decoy. Many of his decoys included wing and tail feather carving, which was unusual for many Winnebago carvers! He used a simple but bold block-style painting with little or no blending. Some of his decoys are signed “O Flater”. |
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.410 Turkey Raffle Package
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| Grand Prize: Savage 301 Turkey .410 Vortex Sparc Solar Red Dot, Avian X Decoys & BOSS Tom TSS Ammo |
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WWA’s Class A – need not be present to win – .410 Turkey Package Raffle
- Tickets just $10 each, only 250 sold
- Drawing 4:30 pm April 11, 2026 at Hunter’s Sports Bar, E9102 State Rd 96, Fremont, WI 54940
Get your tickets securely online below. Tickets will be available online until 4:30 pm, April 10th, or until the raffle sells out. Any remaining tickets available for sale will be at Hunter’s Sports Bar until the time of the drawing. |
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