By Tyler Mieden
This article originally appeared in our August 2026 newsletter
Migration Report 2.0: Built by Wisconsin Waterfowl Hunters
Waterfowl conditions can change quickly across Wisconsin. Bird numbers shift, weather systems move through, water levels fluctuate, and hunting pressure can vary greatly from one part of the state to another.
The Wisconsin Waterfowl Association and the Upduck Podcast are bringing back the Migration Report for its second season to help hunters better understand those changing conditions.
Each week during the Wisconsin waterfowl season, the Migration Report provides a short, statewide snapshot of what hunters are experiencing. Reports include general observations about bird activity, weather, hunting pressure, water levels, and other conditions that may affect a hunter’s time afield.
Wisconsin is divided into four reporting regions—northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast—using Highway 10 as the north-south dividing line and Interstate 39 as the east-west dividing line.
The Migration Report is not intended to reveal exact hunting locations, share someone’s “X,” or expose local secrets. Instead, it provides a broad and responsible look at waterfowl conditions throughout the state.
Hosted through the Upduck Podcast, each 8–10 minute episode is compiled by host Tyler Mieden using observations submitted by hunters across Wisconsin. The report is available through YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and the Upduck social media platforms.
Wisconsin Hunters Make the Report Possible
The Migration Report works because waterfowl hunters are willing to share general observations from their regions.
Contributors help provide a more complete and accurate picture of what is happening across Wisconsin. The more dependable reports received from each region, the more useful the final report becomes for hunters trying to understand statewide and regional trends.
Contributors are not expected to reveal where they hunt. Reports should focus on broad observations such as:
- General bird numbers and activity
- Species being observed
- Weather conditions
- Water levels
- Hunting pressure
- Changes from the previous week
Contributing is an opportunity to represent your part of the state, help fellow hunters better understand changing conditions, and strengthen Wisconsin’s waterfowl community.
Follow the Migration Report
Hunters can follow the Upduck Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and social media to hear the weekly Migration Report throughout the Wisconsin waterfowl season.
Become a Contributor
The Migration Report is currently looking for reliable contributors from throughout Wisconsin.
Those interested in submitting regional reports can contact Tyler through the Upduck social media platforms or email Todd Schaller at c217tazman@gmail.com.
By sharing broad, responsible observations, Wisconsin hunters can help make the Migration Report a valuable resource for the entire waterfowl community.
