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October 11.2025
3 Minutes Read

Wisconsin's Waterfowl Community Soars as Brad Heidel Takes Charge

Man hunting in Wisconsin, carrying ducks and a rifle outdoors.

New Beginnings for Wisconsin’s Waterfowl Community

Hold onto your hunting hats, folks! Brad Heidel has officially taken the reins as the new executive director of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association (WWA). Heidel, who hails from Dane, Wisconsin, steps in to fill the shoes of Bruce Ross, who has served valiantly for seven years. If you didn’t know, Bruce was quite the captain—one of those guys who, when he said “all aboard,” you actually felt like climbing into a duck hunting style ship!

A Hunter's Heart

Heidel’s journey to this position isn’t a wild goose chase. Growing up in the small town of Green Lake, he learned the ropes of hunting at an early age—12 to be precise. That’s when he learned that skipping school for duck opening season is a rite of passage that not even a football coach can take away from you!

“The duck opener holds a special place in my heart and family,” Heidel shared, bringing a mix of personal anecdote and passion to his leadership style. Sounds like he’s got duck feathers in his blood and a hunting rifle under his pillow!

Plans for Wetlands and Beyond

During Heidel’s time with big names in wildlife conservation—think Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Delta Waterfowl—he’s honed his skills in advocacy and habitat restoration. As he embarks on his new journey, his focus remains clear: the ducks, and those who love hunting them. After all, a state known for its lakes isn’t just about fishing—our feathered friends have a special place here too!

“If it doesn’t benefit Wisconsin ducks or duck hunters, we won’t be doing it,” Heidel quips confidently. Think of him as the ultimate duck defender coordinating bonanzas of wetland restoration, hunter recruitment, and education. Imagine the possibilities: more ducks, more hunters, and maybe even a commemorative duck-themed poetry slam? (Now, that would be a quack-up!)

Excitement for the Future

As Brad Heidel readies to steer the WWA—at what feels like a high-speed boat on a lake of adventure—he’s thrilled to continue building on the momentum from Bruce Ross's tenure. “Expect great things to come from the WWA,” he assures. With his energetic outlook, it sounds like the future for Wisconsin waterfowl is not just bright; it's downright dazzling!

With the upcoming seasons, duck hunters across the state can look forward to a plethora of opportunities to engage with the great outdoors. If you’ve been contemplating a page out of a hunting guide or the thrilling potential of the next season, remember to soak in the revitalized WWA spirit.

Get Involved!

So, what can you do to help our ducks and the dedicated community surrounding them? Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newbie, consider joining the WWA! Your membership, donations, and volunteer hours are key to making a difference. And let’s be honest; if you squeaked by in school, there’s redeeming joy in creating memories in the marsh with your community!

Before you go, just remember: While ducks may have their own "quacks and quirks", one thing is for certain—they can’t wing it without fabulous human support. Let's make this season soar!

So grab your gear, dust off that camouflage, and prepare to embrace the adventure! The Wisconsin wilds are calling, and they are sounding a lot like a squawking mallard!

See you in the marsh—who knows, maybe Brad will be there too, leading the charge with duck calls and dreams!

Outdoors & Adventure

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10.11.2025

Reeling in Victory: Adam Eisele Wins WISCO Bass Championship

Update Wisconsin's Fishing Champion: Adam Eisele's Triumph In a remarkable display of angling talent, Adam Eisele of Fort Atkinson snagged the crown at the 2025 WISCO Bass Fishing Championship held on September 14. Not only did he reel in the prestigious title, but he also pocketed the Angler of the Year award for the fifth consecutive time—talk about consistency! Eisele, a seasoned fishing aficionado at 41, boasts over two decades of tournament experience. It's hard to believe he was once just a wide-eyed kid when he helped launch the fishing team at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Almost as hard to believe as my last fishing trip where I somehow caught a shoe! What's the Secret Sauce of Eisele's Success? So, how does Adam Eisele keep his tackle box overflowing with trophies? It all boils down to practice, precision, and perhaps a sprinkle of good luck. Eisele mentioned his commitment to understanding the waters where he competes, giving him an edge over competitors. He describes casting as not just an activity, but a finely-tuned art. Honestly, if I had that kind of skill, I might stop fishing for compliments and start winning some awards! The Thrill of Competition: Not Just for Eisele The WISCO Bass Championship is more than just Eisele's solo stage; it's a celebration for the entire Wisconsin fishing community. As anglers pitted against each other, the tournament highlights camaraderie and fierce competition. Participants share laughs, stories, and sometimes fish tales that stretch the truth. After all, we all know that the one that got away is often bigger than the one you caught! The Great Outdoors: A Playground Full of Activities While Adam is soaking up the accolades in bass fishing, the natural beauty of Wisconsin offers a smorgasbord of outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or hunting, this state has it all. Some notable spots include: Wisconsin state parks: Perfect for hiking trails and nature photography. Wisconsin fishing spots: Home to some legendary fish tales, and I’m not just talking berets and mustaches! Wisconsin national forests: Ideal for peaceful camping sites where you can truly reconnect with nature (or just your fishing pole). As part of the wonderful outdoor adventure tourism scene, events like the WISCO Bass Championship not only highlight competitive fishing but encourage more people to drop a line and discover the joys found in Wisconsin’s vast waterways. Future Trends: The Rise of Eco-Tourism in Wisconsin As we look to the future, themes like sustainability and conservation are likely to shape the outdoor adventures scene in Wisconsin. More anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are focusing on eco-friendly practices, ensuring that our lakes, rivers, forests, and fish populations remain vibrant for years to come. So, whether you’re trolling for bass or paddling down the Mississippi River, remember—every small action contributes to a bigger impact! Join the Adventure! If Eisele’s journey inspires you, grab your gear and explore what Wisconsin has to offer! Take a moment to plan your own expedition: there’s kayaking on the serene paddleboarding spots, biking along scenic drives, or hiking through nature reserves. Whether you envision a peaceful day drifting on the water (hopefully not catching a shoe) or a thrilling radio-controlled boat race—I mean, who could resist a little friendly competition? With Adam Eisele serving as a beacon of success, it’s time to make your own outdoor memories. Fishing, boating, hiking—whatever floats your boat (or line!). The natural beauty of Wisconsin awaits.

10.09.2025

Unlock the Best Fall Walleye Fishing Secrets in Wisconsin

Update Discover the Thrills of Fall Walleye Fishing in Wisconsin As the warm summer days fade into the crisp breezes of autumn, avid anglers in Wisconsin know it’s time for a thrilling transformation on the water. This year, as temperatures drop to a refreshing 34°F, the walleye fishing scene kicks into high gear, welcoming enthusiasts back into the shallow waters where the action really heats up. Fall is not just a season; it’s the stage for an exhilarating fishing adventure that calls to both seasoned fishers and casual weekend warriors.In 'Unlock the SECRET to the BEST Fall Walleye Fishing!', the discussion dives into the exciting transformation that happens in walleye fishing during the fall, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end. The Early Signs of Fall Bites Arriving at your favorite Wisconsin lake after a month, the landscape has shifted dramatically. Water temperatures cool down to the mid-60s, sending fish into a frenzy as they seek shelter in shallower waters filled with bait fish. For the passionate angler, that first cast of the season feels electric. It’s like that first sip of hot cider on a chilly day—so satisfying that one can’t help but smile, even if the fish are just giving a light nibble. Imagine casting a suspending jerkbait in the shallows and watching the bait fish scatter. But that’s not all! The anticipation of a catch makes every moment exciting; you can almost hear the fish saying, "Is it lunch yet?" before they inevitably get hooked. It’s a dance between bait and predator, where the best part is knowing just how to engage the fish with your unique action on the rod. Essential Fall Fishing Tactics This time of year, the key is finding the right spots where bait congregates and predators—like our good friend the walleye—are waiting for an easy meal. Focus on shallow points, steep shorelines, and weed beds where the fish are likely to be hiding. Anglers that understand this can unlock a treasure trove of walleye just waiting to bite. Using tools like side imaging technology really helps anglers navigate these waters smartly. Adjusting settings on your fishing sonar can optimize bait tracking, letting you spot schools of fish more efficiently. It’s like having Google Maps for walleye fishing—no more going in circles trying to find the hot spots! Brush Up on Your Gear for Maximum Success With the excitement of fall fishing, understanding your tackle is vital. Swapping out your summer rigs for lightweight jigs and jerkbaits can significantly increase your catch rate. Picture this: you’re there on a fresh fall morning, rod in hand, with the sun just peeking through the clouds. Your jerkbait dances on the water's surface, and then, that “thump!” of a walleye strikes! A delicious moment indeed. For those fishing enthusiasts who might be confused about when to switch, remember: when the water temp hits 60°F, that’s your cue! Fish aggressively first, and if they aren’t biting, switch tactics. A little extra finesse with a live minnow often does the trick. Either way, there are few things more rewarding than a successful catch this season. The Joy of Navigating Wisconsin Waters This idyllic state is known for its picturesque lakes and winding rivers, making it a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Imagine paddling down one of Wisconsin's serene fishing spots, surrounded by vibrant fall foliage, while your lines troll in the water. Add in some local cheese curds, and you've got a day made in heaven! As the leaves turn amber and gold, remember to also explore some other adventure opportunities, like hiking the Kettle Moraine trails or canoeing the beautiful Wisconsin River. The fall leaves alone will have you convinced that nature is a master artist. And, hey, let’s be real—navigating through such scenery is sure to give you the Instagram post of the year. Remember, “Good fishing lies in patience; great fishing is in having fun!” Wrap It Up and Reel It In The first official day of fall means it’s time to get out there and enjoy every moment, from hearing the crunch of leaves underfoot to savoring that hot drink while waiting for the next bite. Don’t forget—successful fishing isn’t just about the catch. It’s about the laughter shared, the stories told, and the memories made. So whether there's frost on your windshield or flakes of leaves tumbling in the wind, grab your buddies, plan a trip, and get ready for some great camaraderie as you reel in those falls’ finest. So, what are you waiting for? Get your gear together, make sure you have a good jerbait ready, and get out on those Wisconsin waters where adventure and opportunity await!

10.08.2025

Endangered Whooping Crane Ducky's Death: A Call to Action for Wildlife Lovers

Update Have You Heard the Sad News About Ducky? In a rather disheartening turn of events, an endangered whooping crane affectionately known as "Ducky" has died, marking a significant upset for conservationists and bird lovers everywhere. Raised at the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo, Wisconsin, Ducky succumbed to a strain of avian flu, becoming the world's first confirmed casualty from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) on September 25, 2025. And let me say, it’s enough to put a damper on a sunny Wisconsin river kayaking trip! The Consequences of Ducky's Departure Ducky was part of a crucial breeding and reintroduction program, set to be released into the wild at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge along with seven other cranes this fall. With only about 700 whooping cranes left in all of North America, losing Ducky means losing over 1% of the Eastern migratory population. That’s a tough pill to swallow for anyone with a love for avian diversity. Imagine if we lost more than one percent of our fun relatives at the annual family reunion! We’d run out of potluck dishes in no time. The Avian Flu: What’s the Big Deal? You might be wondering why bird flu is such a buzzkill. Well, HPAI is not your average flu; it's lethal. Spread through contaminated feces or respiratory secretions, the disease can persist in the environment longer than last week's leftovers hidden in the fridge. It’s especially concerning because whooping cranes are migratory and susceptible to catching it during their journey between breeding and wintering grounds, where many of them hang out at Aransas National Park in Texas. Wisconsin's Beautiful Birdlife: At Risk! The current events concerning Ducky serve as a chilling reminder of what is at stake for wildlife in Wisconsin. This state is not just about cheese and the Packers—it's home to stunning ecosystems that offer ample outdoor activities from bird watching to hiking trails aplenty. But the avian flu and habitat loss remain threats to our feathered friends. Remember the last time you set out for a hike, and that serene moment was interrupted by the honking of geese? Imagine a day when those sounds were silent. Brr! Chilly thought, right? Action Time: What Can We Do? If you love the great outdoors, now's the time to pay attention. You can participate in local conservation efforts, whether it's volunteering at a nature center or simply enjoying Wisconsin's wildlife responsibly. Plus, you’ll want to tune your binoculars and get into bird watching—because let’s be honest, nothing beats the thrill of spotting a bird that could very well be the next Ducky. Think of Ducky as a canary in the coal mine—if we don't act, we might just find ourselves holding our breath. Ducky’s Legacy: A Call to Action As sad as Ducky's story is, it's also an opportunity for us to rally together in promoting biodiversity and supporting conservation initiatives. The International Crane Foundation has redoubled its biosecurity efforts, ensuring that any remaining cranes stay healthy. We can also support these initiatives by donating or spreading the word about such conservation measures. Taking care of our wildlife is not just for the trees, but for every laugh and joy they bring to our journeys in Wisconsin’s breathtaking nature. Final Thoughts: Ducky, You Will Be Missed! Ducky may have taken her final flight, but her story reminds us all of our responsibility to protect our wildlife and natural heritage. Whether you're ziplining down a forest path or paddleboarding on a serene lake, spare a thought for the species we share this beautiful state with. They deserve our respect—and maybe a little bit of humor on the side too! We can all learn something from Ducky's short, yet impactful life: enjoy every moment, because sometimes the jokes we make, like the birds we cherish, can end far too soon. Let’s keep Wisconsin a thriving paradise for all its wildlife!

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