Exploring the Heartland: A Duck Hunting Adventure in Nebraska

Nebraska might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of duck hunting, but my recent trip there completely changed my perspective. I joined the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Ducks Unlimited chapter for a series of hunting adventures, and it was an experience I'll never forget.

The Thrill of the Hunt

Our journey began with an episode of the Campus Waterfowl podcast, where I got to meet some incredible students from the UNL Ducks Unlimited chapter. We talked about everything from duck hunting in Nebraska to their involvement in the chapter. It was fascinating to learn about their experiences and the camaraderie they've built through their shared passion for waterfowl hunting. I encourage you to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify.

Early Morning Excitement

It was one of those hunts where we had to wake up at 3 AM to ensure we got the spot we wanted to hunt. The anticipation and excitement were palpable as we prepared in the dark, sipping on Red Bulls to shake off the sleepiness. It was a fun day of hunting and we ended a couple short of a 4 man limit.

The Gear That Makes It Happen

A significant part of duck hunting is the gear, and on this trip, we got to experience the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 shotgun. Its lightweight design, reliability, and ease of use made it a standout choice for our hunting needs. The students shared their personal experiences with the shotgun, highlighting its durability and performance in the field.

Culinary Delights

After a successful day of hunting, we turned our harvest into a culinary masterpiece. Students from UNL made Jalapeño Duck Egg Rolls, a unique and delicious way to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The combination of fresh teal breasts, jalapeños, onions, bacon, cheese, and cream cheese, all wrapped in crispy egg roll wrappers, was nothing short of amazing.

Final Thoughts

The weekend spent with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Ducks Unlimited chapter was more than just a hunting trip; it was a deep dive into the world of waterfowl hunting, camaraderie, and outdoor adventure. The students, with their passion and knowledge, were the heart of this experience. Their dedication to conservation and the sport, coupled with their welcoming spirit, made this trip truly special. It was inspiring to see how they balance their academic responsibilities with their commitment to Ducks Unlimited and their love for hunting. This weekend was a reminder of the importance of community in outdoor activities and how shared passions can bring people together from all walks of life. I left Nebraska with not just memories of a great hunt, but also with new friendships and a deeper appreciation for the student-led conservation efforts.

We'd like to extend a special thank you to Kent Cartridge and Benelli for sponsoring Season 5 of the Collegiate Waterfowl Tour. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in bringing these adventures to life.

We invite you to join us on our adventures and immerse yourself in the world of waterfowl hunting with Campus Waterfowl by subscribing to our YouTube channel!