In a world where we’re increasingly disconnected from nature, I’ve discovered a new escape that hunters have known about for generations. Waterfowling is the ultimate experience in combining patience with reward, and the drama plays out beneath painted skies to the soundtrack of the wetlands. What’s not to love about an opportunity to leave your screens at home and create a closer connection with the wilderness?
It turns out that hunting ducks and geese isn’t only good for those of us looking to take a break from the daily grind of life and technology. It’s also sound conservation management. Increasingly, there’s integration between waterfowl population management, conservation of habitat, and hunting activities.
Hunters share a passion not only for waterfowl but also for wetlands. Their role in wildlife management and habitat integration is essential for building constructive public policies that protect these areas. And for those of us who call Manitoba home, we’re particularly lucky to live in a rich playground of wetlands that boasts some of the best waterfowl hunting opportunities in all of North America.
With a wide variety of waterfowl, game birds, and big game species, our landscape is ripe for discovery by avid hunters who haven’t yet explored here. Protecting and preserving its future means welcoming hunters to the area, providing a source of revenue for conservation programs. If you’re not yet familiar with this area, it has a lot to entice you. Not only are there widespread top-notch hunting areas, but it’s also dotted with camps that offer complete-package opportunities to experience nature up close.
One of the most diverse wildlife breeding and migration staging areas is the Delta Marsh. If you’re keen on hunting waterfowl, this is the place to be. Primarily populated by Canada geese, mallard ducks, and migrant snow geese, this area of Manitoba’s diverse landscape is a jackpot for waterfowlers. It wouldn’t be surprising to bag mallards and Canada geese in the morning then find yourself combining the experience with an afternoon of pintails and snow geese. From cool sunrises to sprawling sunsets, waterfowling in this area is always rewarding.
The area’s status as one of the premier hunting locations in North America is a big draw for Canadians, Americans, and international visitors, so you’re sure to find camaraderie.
The lure of pristine nature is strong. Waterfowling is an opportunity to join the club of many generations before us, connecting to the wilderness in the most humble of ways. Sure, it may require braving dreadful weather, sitting in blinds for hours, and digging deep for a level of patience you never thought you’d have. The payoff exceeds the input though, as you witness firsthand the fall migration of millions of waterfowl, bag your catch, and feast on your own success by firelight at the end of a long day. If you know, you know.
The great thing is that the wetlands are beckoning to us, and as we continue to look for new ways to connect with nature, becoming a waterfowler should be at the top of your list. Hunters are contributing substantially to the management of these areas through licences, taxes, and donations, and the result has been the conservation of millions of acres that are now ready to welcome both new and experienced hunters alike.
Manitoba is the place of legends, and my only regret is that it took me so long to recognize what’s right under my nose. With a thriving population of waterfowl, you can set your sights on silver-backed bull canvasbacks, redheads, and wigeons as well as coveted mallards, all under the wing of exceptional guides who know the local area.
Fly into a world-class airport, drop your phone into your luggage, and join the call of the birds in Manitoba’s vast wetlands. Not only will you be joining a rich history, but you’ll also be contributing to its future.
