This past year's waterfowl season was exhilarating for me. I had many opportunities to share time in the field with some people whom I admire and love. These times in the field are priceless memories that you will always be able to reflect upon.

In particular, I had one hunt that sticks out among some of the best It was opening day of the Firearm deer season here in Michigan, and schools are canceled for the day along with my employer (Jay's Sporting Goods) being closed for this big event. I had made plans with my hunting partners, Ryan, Mark, and Andy. The latter two are my 5 & 6 year old boys. Our hunt was to take place on Houghton Lake, home to several thousand ducks yearly. It was a brisk morning, 15-20 degrees with a north/west wind into our faces. We set our spread before daylight and had to bust ice to do so. We had hunted this spot many times already this season and had some good hunts with Ryan. Our decoys were working great despite the ice build-up on them. Just as daylight cracks that magic moment happens... wings flapping all around us. I looked into my sons faces to see something only a father sees, amazement Just as the moment couldn't get any better, I heard the bugle "Take em!!". I raised my gun, took aim, and busted a big greenhead that landed smack dab, right in the middle of the spread. I rushed out to retrieve this duck and the other ducks my partner shot. There is something about retrieving ducks from water so cold it forms to your waders with every stride. When I reached shore, my little buddies eagerily awaiting the ducks, admired our take. Several more times that day, we took more ducks from the sky. Despite the cold, wind, and lack of a good heater, we had fun. Some of the best fun I've ever had. My hunting partners and I were proud to have such an opportunity to spend time together enjoying the outdoors in all it's beauty.