Certified Grand Master Waterfowl Hunter
Receive this Custom Engraved Grand Master Waterfowl Hunter King Eider Decoy with hunters name plated on a wood base when you successfully register all 41 UWC species.
(All photos and bios and can be emailed directly to: entries@watefowlerschallenge.com)
Grand Master Waterfowl
The third and final level above the Certified Journeyman Waterfowl Hunter is becoming a Certified Grand Master Waterfowl Hunter. This is the pinnacle of the UCW Challenge! To achieve this certification level a member must successfully harvest and become certified for all 41 of the 41 Official Certified UWC Species (See Section 6 for the Official UWC N.A. Waterfowl Species List.)
Once a member successfully certifies all 41 species, the status of Certified Grand Master Waterfowl Hunter has been achieved. (Note: any additional species harvested outside of the Official UWC North American Species List will be added as “bonus species” to the hunter’s official certified species list on the UWC website.) At this point the member will receive a custom carved King Eider Decoy mounted on a wood stand with a custom engraved gold name plate with the member’s name and status as a Certified UWC Grand Master Waterfowl Hunter. The member will also be added to the Grand Master Waterfowl Hunter page of the UWC website and will have the ability to add an extensive bio and 3 additional photos for a total of 6 photos for fellow waterfowl hunters to read.
Members are updated every Monday by 5 PM CST.
UWC MEMBERS WHO HIT THE GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL
CERTIFICATION LEVEL IN 2024
Kris Wolfe
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Kris Wolfe
UWC ID: WF-002-015 | Ohio
OFFICIAL START DATE: December 6, 2023
COMPLETION DATE: March 3 , 2024
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE:
This journey of chasing the 41 has really opened my eyes to waterfowl hunting. The places it has taken me, the people I have met, and the different hunting styles have been unique; before this challenge, I never really thought I’d see so many places.
The brotherhood in most places has been unreal. Everyone asked me, “What’s your favorite bird”? Well, I love them all; everyone has a unique look and learns how they feed, how they nest, where they live when they migrate, and why they migrate. My favorite place has been a toss-up between Illinois because of the people I’ve met and Alaska for the sights I’ve seen. The King Eider has to be my favorite bird, and the fulvous are coming in in a close second. The sea ducks were the most fun to hunt. The puddle ducks were more of a challenge.
I started this using my Super Vinci, and after about 20 birds, I started playing around with my SBE3 and browning A5, all 12g. This challenge led me to get many more people interested in waterfowl hunting and fun trips with my father and my daughter as she is on the chase for her 41. Dad doesn’t care. He likes to hunt with us.
After 5 years of chasing these birds, my buddy asked, “Where is your card?” My card? He said yeah, man, you have to certify all these to make it count… me. Oh, shoot. In December, my card came in the mail; I had a cackler hunt scheduled for December 6th and 7th, so I took off to get the bird. First to certify and 40th for my challenge. But of course, the others didn’t matter, so a guy I became terrific friends with while on a hunt in Greenland wanted to hunt whitetail on one of my farms here in Ohio. In the trade of that hunt, I came to his place in California, so after the cackler hunt, my wife and I got a rental car and headed to Lenny’s in central California; boy, we chased puddle ducks like no one’s business.
From shooting time to shooting time, all we did was chase species. And I knocked a lot off. Then it was off to Texas, Florida, then NC Dec 23, for my swan; the chase was on. Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, and Washington, and I finished Mar 3 with my blue goose in Illinois with Rick Hamm. The rest is history.
I can’t thank everyone enough for the hospitality. I made great relationships and met great people who were more than willing to help me meet this goal. My goal was to do this before I turned 42; I will be 42 this year. Setting a goal and completing it has also given me a new outlook on life in general. All the best to everyone in the chase to 41.
Evan Bowers
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Evan Bowers
UWC ID: WF-000-363 (GOLD MEMBER) | Virgina
OFFICIAL START DATE: March 27, 2019
COMPLETION DATE: February 4 , 2024
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard
I first got into duck hunting when I was ten years old, my first duck was a Barrows Golden eye which I got on Kodiak island in Alaska. Now I wasn’t a part of the challenge yet but my brother was, he started the passion I have now for waterfowl hunting. When I first started my goal was to be the youngest to ever complete it, but of course I have to thank my dad the most. I couldn’t have gone anywhere or experienced any of the things I have without him. He completed just as much as I did. One of my biggest obstacles was school. I was missing multiple weeks at a time but since I like to think I’m fairly smart I was able to handle it. I love telling and educating people on where I have gone and talking about the things I’ve seen. My experiences are very pretty drastically from wading in shorts in Mexico to wearing four layers of insulation in Alaska, waterfowl hunting is so amazing of all the different things you are able to feel and experience.
I have always been a hunter as long as I can remember but the things I used to hunt were all in the mountains or woods like deer, squirrels, turkeys, and bears never duck hunting. That’s why when I got my first duck in Alaska it felt so incredible to see these amazing birds up close, from duck hunting i have been able to witness all varieties of hunters, from those who struggle to put the safety back on to those who were too afraid to pull the trigger but I knew that my dad was always there make sure I was safe. I owe this to him for everything he has done for me. My father is the only reason that I could complete this challenge. So to me the challenge is more than just harvesting all 41 species but also making new friends, trying new things like laying down in a layout on the ocean, seeing new places, and sharing hunts with friends and loved ones. I am proud of myself for doing this and I am so grateful for all those who have helped me along this amazing journey across North America.
I’d also like to thank God for letting me be in good health to complete this awesome journey.
Jeff Wolfe
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Jeff Wolfe
UWC ID: WF-000-391 (GOLD MEMBER) | Michigan
OFFICIAL START DATE: December 25, 2019
COMPLETION DATE: March 1 , 2024
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 43
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard, Hybrid Teal
It all started in 1970 when my father took me to a Managed Waterfowl Area in Michigan, and I was able to harvest two Mallard Drakes. I was hooked. For the next 50 years I hunted the Michigan area and killed thousands of ducks and geese. Just a few years ago, I reached a point in my hunting lifestyle where I wasn’t even pulling the trigger anymore. It was the same old hunt with the same guys at the same places.
It almost got boring and seemed like a job. I wanted more.
That’s when I found the UWC program on Facebook. It seemed like a great way to hunt species of waterfowl I had never encountered, meet fellow hunters, and see new areas of the country. I enrolled in the program and signed up for a few hunts. I was very impressed. Every UWC hunt I went on was top-notch. And every guide on the hunts was professional, properly equipped, safety conscious, and willing to do whatever it took to have a chance at the species I was after. Not to mention the good eats along the way. I was excited each time I was able to scratch a bird off the list and I was on my way to 41.
Serious waterfowling is not just a hobby but a 24-7 committed lifestyle. The UWC program hunts are a great avenue to experience some of the finest waterfowling in the world. The UWC program has re-ignited my passion for the world of waterfowling.
A big thank you to Dan Wennerlind, Brandon Crowley, and Jim Riley for creating and continuing such a great program to achieve the Waterfowl Grand Slam.
Brian A Rice
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Brian A. Rice
UWC ID: WF-000-979 | North Carolina
OFFICIAL START DATE: December 19, 2018
COMPLETION DATE: March 1 , 2024
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Emperor Goose
While growing up, my Papaw Rice took me hunting small game and fishing. For me, spending time with Papaw and being out in the woods was always an adventure. As I got a little older my interests shifted towards big game. I went on a black bear hunt here at home in eastern North Carolina. I was unsuccessful in harvesting a bear, so the outfitter invited me back for the second split. That’s when he said something that changed me as a hunter forever. He said, “When you return for the second split, bring a shotgun, and we will do some duck hunting.” The rest is history. On that hunt, we were in a 30-acre flooded private compound. It was that duck hunt that changed me and ruined me. All hunts are not the same. There were birds everywhere. We could talk and cook breakfast in the blind. I shot two to three boxes of shells. That lit a fire in me and a new passion for waterfowl hunting. That is all I wanted to do going forward. After that hunt, I learned of the challenge and was off and running.
I had always wanted to see more of our beautiful country. Not only was this my opportunity to see more of our beautiful country, but it was also a chance to meet wonderful people, try local cuisine, and visit some of the local sites. I have met many interesting people along the chase to complete the slam. Some will be lifelong friends.
Now, my only problem is that there are so many places I want to return to and hunt every year, and it will be practically impossible. Luckily, I have locked in the recesses of my memory the beautiful sunrises, laughs, friendships, and shooting waterfowl that will remain with me forever. Some things are worth more than all the money in the world and can never be recreated.
I would like to dedicate this slam to my Papaw for instilling in me the love of hunting and respect for the harvest and my family for tolerating me running all over the country chasing birds.
Billy Bunyard
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Billy Bunyard
UWC ID: WF-000-979 | Kansas
OFFICIAL START DATE: March 18, 2019
COMPLETION DATE: February 1st , 2024
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 45
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard, Hybrid Duck, Aleutian Teal, Egyptian Goose
I started this grand adventure when my son graduated from high school. I took him on the UWC Adventures Mexico trip as a gift for graduation. That is where we met lifelong friends Sean Tomlin and Dan Marschke. They are the ones who talked us into joining The UWC.
After that awesome hunt, I got my dad a membership for Christmas. We turned our adventures into a family thing. Brant in Cold Bay, Black ducks in Maine, and all the other hunts are too numerous to mention it’s been a wild ride.
The BEST part was being blessed to do it with my dad and son, as not everyone can be as fortunate. I want to say a huge thank you to all the excellent guides who have made all of this possible.
My success was possible with the guides and friends I have met along the way!
Richard Bunyard
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Richard Bunyard
UWC ID: WF-000-659 | Kansas
OFFICIAL START DATE: March 22, 2021
COMPLETION DATE: February 1st , 2024
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 45
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard, Hybrid Duck
I watched my son and his friend Joe lying out in the cold and mud from head to toe, telling me how much fun they were having. I wasn’t having it. My son bought all the stamps so I wouldn’t have an excuse not to go. So what could I do?
It was the last day of hunting season, the worst weather we had. It was so cold, wet, and muddy that I asked my on – Are we having fun yet? He said to be quiet. The birds are coming. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. He said lay down in that blind and don’t move. The geese were miles away. I couldn’t believe my eyes when he told SHOOT EM!! They were here on top of us. I shot 3 times and killed 2 of the biggest Canada geese I had ever seen. I was so proud of him calling geese from that far away. He had been practicing on that call forever. I know what they mean when they say practice makes perfect. My son and grandson joined the UWC after they went to Mexico, and they told me about how fun and challenging it was. Guess what I got for Christmas from my son? It was a great gift. We could hunt as a family and see different places and birds together.
The UWC Challenge is worth the time and money just going with my son and grandson. I hope every father is as blessed as I am to experience The UWC Challenge with their son.
Russell Freehling
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Russell Freehling
UWC ID: WF-261 GOLD MEMBER | California
OFFICIAL START DATE: November 11, 2015
COMPLETION DATE: January 6th , 2024
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 41
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard
I joined the Ultimate Waterfowlers Challenge in 2014. I thought it was a really cool concept of registering all 41 species of waterfowl in North America. As a Christmas present, I purchased a membership for my son. Even though we had almost all of the puddle ducks and a few of the sea ducks already, it would be fun to “start over” and see how many birds we could get.
The thought was to see different places, hunt species that we do not have access to in Southern California, and share our common love of the sport with fellow hunters sprinkled across North America.
We didn’t really think we could get all 41 species, but we would book a trip or two each season, and look forward to the experience.
As it happens in life, my son became very busy with a new career and family, and he would have to temporarily stand down on making these trips.
I kept going – sometimes on my own, and sometimes with my good friend Tom Cornwell (Tom and his son are also members of the UWC).
After seven years, I realized that I was only a few birds shy of the grand total of 41 species. Now it became a quest to complete the journey. Could I really do it? What a feat if I could breathe that rarified air of bagging the complete North America waterfowl collection!
I completed #40 in the 2022 season, and Tom and I scrambled to book a trip to St. Paul Island in Alaska to harvest #41 – the King Eider
We left on Christmas Day, 2023, to pursue the toughest challenge yet – hunting on the Bering Sea. As luck would have it, the weather did not give us a break, as it didn’t care that this was a special hunt.
Our first day we were in a Zodiak raft in 10-12 foot swells, breakers with sleet and snow thrown in just to make things interesting.
Within the first five minutes of the hunt a nice King came into the decoys and I had #41! (Tom shot his a few seconds later).
It was appropriate that the last bird should be the toughest to bring down. We hunted two more hunts, still rough conditions, but I managed to collect the season limit of four King Eiders.
It took over nine years to complete the journey – it was hard at times with all the distractions life threw at me (work, health issues, social
commitments, etc).
As Jimmy Dugan said in “League of Their Own” – “It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. The “hard” is what makes
it great”
Since this a game of “Fair Chase”, there were times the birds were not in as they should have been, or the weather didn’t cooperate so we couldn’t hunt the way we needed to on some of these trips. The Long Tail and Common Scoter took three trips to complete the task because of migration deviations or weather…
All in all, the completion of harvesting all 41 species is my “Mount Everest” in life. Waterfowling is my passion and to reach the top of the mountain, is a very special life accomplishment for me.
The adventure these last nine years has taken me to Canada, Maine, North Carolina, Florida, North Dakota, Nebraska, Washington, Idaho, California, Alaska and Mexico
This quest is something that no one can give you – you have to do it on your own. The sense of accomplishment is off the charts when you have completed all the steps to get to the final destination of each hunt and then ultimately pulling the trigger and watching the targeted bird fall. I got to do it 41 times!!!
I also take pride that all the birds were shot on the wing – maintaining the “sporting” aspect of our game
I appreciate the support of my wife Tammy, my son RJ, Tom Cornwell and all my other family members and friends who knew how much this has meant to me
It will be fun to relive some of my memories as I help my son and Tom complete their journey to #41!
UWC MEMBERS WHO HIT THE GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL
CERTIFICATION LEVEL IN 2023
Leen Madsen
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Leen Madsen
UWC ID: WF-000-627 | Nevada
OFFICIAL START DATE: November 14, 2019
COMPLETION DATE: December 10 , 2023
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 41
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE:
I started hunting at 8 years old with my Dad. Let me tell you, there was nothing more exciting than hunting with my dad. As the years have gone on, our roles have switched as now I fetch birds, let him shoot first and it is more enjoyable in every single hunt.
The other part of duck hunting was all about my dogs. Watching them work and sharing memories is what this journey has been all about. When the UWC came about, I thought why not? What an incredible journey! I have been able to hunt new ways, see new parts of the country and best of all making new friends.
I can say for sure, this challenge and duck hunting have been a staple of my life and now I am hoping to help many achieve their 41.
Nicklaus Sime
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Nicklaus Sime
UWC ID: WF-001-065 | Minnesota
OFFICIAL START DATE: January 1, 2020
COMPLETION DATE: December 9 , 2023
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 41
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE:
The UWC added an exciting couple of years of waterfowl hunting for me. Allowing for me to see many new locations as well as meet many new people I now call friends! Visiting Alaska, Washington, Florida, Arizona, and North Dakota to name a few.
I started this challenge on January 1 2020 with a personal goal set at completing it within five years. I was happy to call it complete on December 9, 2023 in Long Island New York! Was happy to complete the challenge with all birds harvested within the United States.
This challenge will test your patience but will take you on an exciting waterfowl journey that you’ll never forget. And you’ll get to visit areas you’ve never seen or hunted before and hunt in ways you may not be familiar with to in order to complete your UWC. I’m grateful to be a part of such a great waterfowl hunting community!
Rob Springer
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Rob Springer
UWC ID: WF-000-334 | Florida
OFFICIAL START DATE: January 14, 2020
COMPLETION DATE: January 1 , 2023
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 41
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE:
In my quest, to achieve the Ultimate Waterfowl Challenge, along with my best duck hunting buddy, Chuck Lamar, we were able to travel the country several times. We had too many great memories to describe in three short paragraphs, but here are my fondest memories during the challenge/ quest.
The state of Texas probably helped me achieve the greatest number of different types of waterfowl over the six years that Chuck and I hunted waterfowl together during this quest/challenge!
One of our most memorable hunts was two consecutive days in Port Mansfield, where we limited on all Drake widgeon as they literally fell from the sky by the hundreds in mid-January.
Next most memorable would likely be the state of California, where we witnessed “Cinnamon Teal” coming into a marsh, not by the hundreds, but by the thousands just outside the town of Los Banos.
Finally, of the most memorable places is the state of Alaska.
During the six years of our quest, we made three trips to Alaska, seeing all kinds of unique places and witnessing waterfowl flourishing in this Last Frontier. Alaska is also where I harvested my “last Duck” of the quest, the King Eider, in January of 2023 with Aleutian Island Outfitters.
Lastly, I would like to personally thank all of the tremendous conservation organizations that are helping to improve the habitat for waterfowl and all of the outstanding outfitters/guides that helped make our dreams come true when hunting with them from Canada to Mexico from Maine to California, and from Florida to Alaska!
What a tremendous experience it was!
I am now moving on to harvesting the waterfowl in other countries, which I hope to begin in 2024!
Bruce Daniell
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Bruce Daniell
UWC ID: WF-000-751 | Illinois
OFFICIAL START DATE: January 7, 2018
COMPLETION DATE: January 1 , 2023
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 44
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Hybrid Duck, Emperor Goose, Mexican Duck, Egyptian Goose
Justin Diercks
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Justin Diercks
UWC ID: WF-000-601 | Virginia
OFFICIAL START DATE: December 27, 2015
COMPLETION DATE: February 12 , 2023
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Hybrid Duck
Ed Magee
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Ed Magee
UWC ID: WF-000-984 | Rhode Island
OFFICIAL START DATE: February 8, 2017
COMPLETION DATE: January 3 , 2023
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard
UWC MEMBERS WHO HIT THE GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL
CERTIFICATION LEVEL IN 2022
Travis Schwing
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Travis Schwing
UWC ID: WF-001-045 | Washington
OFFICIAL START DATE: October 17, 2017
COMPLETION DATE: December 27 , 2022
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Eurasian Wigeon
Andrew Gibson
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Andrew Gibson
UWC ID: WF-001-474 | Colorado
OFFICIAL START DATE: February 9, 2017
COMPLETION DATE: October 10 , 2022
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard
Completing the Ultimate Waterfowlers Challenge has been more rewarding than I would have ever imagined. It all started one day in a duck blind on the South Platte River where a few of us decided we would start the journey for the 41 together. Since then I have traveled all over North America chasing ducks and have seen some amazing places. More importantly are the people I’ve met along the way and now call friends. I was a little hesitant to join the UWC when my good friend brought it up but was quickly convinced that having a legitimate entity, such as the UWC, to register my birds and track my progress along the way would be worth it. Plus once completed you do get the amazing King Eider Decoy trophy.
Although I have finished my quest for the North American 41, there are still a few birds on my list and I will continue traveling chasing these birds in far off places with great friends.
UWC MEMBERS WHO HIT THE GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL
CERTIFICATION LEVEL IN 2021
Mike Landau
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Mike Landau
UWC ID: WF-000-983 | Colorado
OFFICIAL START DATE: February 15, 2017
COMPLETION DATE: December 12 , 2021
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 44
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard, Emperor Goose and Hybrid Duck
My passion for waterfowl started at a very young age as I enjoyed watching my dad’s passion for all things waterfowl. He would pull me around in a sneak boat through marsh long before I could even hold a gun. He took me on my first duck hunt and at the age of 12, I had my first dose of success by shooting two ducks with one shot and I have been hooked ever since.
What I love about waterfowl hunting is the complexity of all the different variables needed in order to be successful. You have decoys, dogs, mojos, calling, guns, gear, ammo, boats, blinds, wind, weather, sun, clouds and the strategy changes depending on if you are hunting private or public, fields, rivers, lakes, marshes or oceans. The best part is, once you think you have it all figured out, the conditions change and you are back to square one.
I never thought starting this challenge would be this fulfilling and rewarding. It has brought another level of excitement, emotions, and energy to each hunt. It’s not about the limits of birds anymore for me, its about the journey and fellowship with others. It is about experience new experiences, traveling to different parts of the country, meeting new people, learning news skills, strengthening bonds with my hunting buddies and enjoying each moment in the outdoors. Our adventures have been wild, the beauty of each duck is breathtaking, and the memories have been priceless.
Greg Carpenter
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Greg Carpenter
UWC ID: WF-000-253 (GOLD MEMBER) | Florida
OFFICIAL START DATE: April 8, 2015
COMPLETION DATE: December 21 , 2021
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 43
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard and Aleutian Teal
I never thought years ago when I started this challenge that it would be so fun and hard at the same time. It has taken me all over the country, to Canada, and even Mexico. Living in Florida meant traveling a long way and being away from home a lot for each hunt to get to 41. Can’t thank my wife enough for allowing me this dream. The best part of the challenge you would think would be the places that I got to hunt that I never would have but it was the people I met and hunted with that I will remember the most. Harvesting the last bird with my friend Rod Merritt and Eider Pro Outfitters in Maine was surreal. A flood of emotions came along with pulling the trigger on the last bird, from excitement and cheers to tears that it was over. I can’t recommend this challenge enough to other waterfowl hunters. Thanks again Dan and Brandon.
Chandler King
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
Chandler King
UWC ID: WF-01-079 | MICHIGAN
OFFICIAL START DATE: March 4, 2018
COMPLETION DATE: March 1 , 2021
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 43
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard and Egyptian Goose
CAMERON SLY
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
CAMERON SLY
UWC ID: WF-01-080 | MICHIGAN
OFFICIAL START DATE: March 4, 2018
COMPLETION DATE: March 1 , 2021
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 44
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: Mexican Mallard, Egyptian Goose and Hybrid duck
To say the waterfowl challenge was tough, yet a lot of fun would be an understatement. Thanks to this challenge, my buddy and I have traveled all over and seen so much. All the way from the mountains in Alaska, to the marshes in Mexico, out to the Statue of Liberty in New York. Not many people get the opportunity to do something like this, and for that, I will forever be grateful. I have met so many good people from guides to hunters, and some of those, I now call friends. It has all been worth it since day one and it saddens me that it’s already over with. Everyone should go for it and challenge themselves every now and then. I look forward to hunting all over the country and continue meeting new people. I wish everyone who does this challenge the best of luck. May your barrel stay warm, and the birds stay cupped. I just want to thank to the UWC team, friends, and family for making this challenge become an accomplishment. Thank you.
UWC MEMBERS WHO HIT THE GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL
CERTIFICATION LEVEL IN 2020
RYAN SCOTT
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
RYAN SCOTT
UWC ID: WF-00-265 GOLD MEMBER | TEXAS
OFFICIAL START DATE: October 17, 2017
COMPLETION DATE: December 6, 2020
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 41
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE:
I blame all of this on a good friend of mine who introduced me to the UWC and had full intentions on finishing it alongside me, however his wife and a newborn redirected his time and attention. Our first hunt targeting species that are not found in Texas led us to New England where we were after Black Ducks, Scoters, Old Squaw and Eider. Being infatuated with sprigs I couldn’t wait to get my hands on that first Old Squaw, I remember clearly dumping two shells into open air on the swing and finally connecting on the last shot; I was so excited I nearly fell out of the layout boat. It was at that moment that I knew this challenge was for me. The experiences of new destinations, how to hunt different types of birds, taking in the local culture and meeting new people who end up becoming close friends has made all of this more than worth it. Now that this challenge is over I look forward to chasing the subspecies of several of the 41 and beginning to work on the International Slam.
SCOTT STARNES
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
SCOTT STARNES
UWC ID: WF-00-819 | NORTH CAROLINA
OFFICIAL START DATE: October 17, 2017
COMPLETION DATE: December 7, 2020
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 41
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE:
After retiring 2 years ago I truly wanted to finish my waterfowl slam. I only needed 4 birds to do so and what I thought would be the easiest turned out to be my unicorn.
UWC MEMBERS WHO HIT THE GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL
CERTIFICATION LEVEL IN 2019
CLIFF ADAMS
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
CLIFF ADAMS
UWC ID: WF-001-059 | MISSISSIPPI
OFFICIAL START DATE: October 17, 2017
COMPLETION DATE: December 29, 2019
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: MEXICAN MALLARD
The UWC has been a wonderful opportunity to spend some quality time outdoors with my two sons. Even though I completed the challenge before they did, I can’t wait to get back out there with them chasing ducks and their challenge. My older son has been having to share hunting time with college which has slowed his challenge a bit. My younger son, who is twelve,has only six ducks left to go on his challenge. Hopefully we can get him finished up in a year or two. The challenge was a great idea and I’m looking forward to the international part of it.
JAMES STARR
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
JAMES STARR
UWC ID: WF-000-281 (GOLD MEMBER) | MINNESOTA
OFFICIAL START DATE: October 10, 2016
COMPLETION DATE: March 13, 2019
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 44
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: MEXICAN MALLARD, ERUASIAN WIGEON, MALLARD HYBRID
CLARENCE CUSHING
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
CLARENCE CUSHING
UWC ID: WF-000-255 (GOLD MEMBER) | ILLINOIS
OFFICIAL START DATE: July 11, 2015
COMPLETION DATE: February 27, 2019
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 41
SCOTT SPRENGER
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
SCOTT SPRENGER
UWC ID: WF-000-289 (GOLD MEMBER) | WISCONSIN
OFFICIAL START DATE: December 19, 2016
COMPLETION DATE: January 27, 2019
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: MEXICAN MALLARD
What an awesome experience! A couple years ago I would have never imagined that in such a short time I could travel to all these different places and experience so many different waterfowl hunts. I met so many passionate hunters, guides and outfitters in the process. It’s definitely not all about the kill, some hunts I spent more time looking through binoculars trying to find the perfect bird to shoot, and the next hunt I’d spend hours just praying I would see a drake. In the end, the most rewarding feeling was holding those drakes in your hand and seeing the true beauty of so many different species. I am definitely looking forward to signing up my 2 kids and I’m also excited to see what the next part of the challenge is. Thank you Dan and the whole UWC team, great challenge!
DAN MARSCHKE
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
DAN MARSCHKE
UWC ID: WF-000-274 (GOLD MEMBER) | GEORGIA
OFFICIAL START DATE: JUNE 28, 2016
COMPLETION DATE: January 22, 2019
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: MEXICAN MALLARD
I grew up in Northern Wisconsin at my folks’ hunting and fishing resort so you could say hunting was in my blood. I started the challenge in 2016, made a plan, and have enjoyed harvesting ducks in many different states, including Alaska, as well as Mexico. I have joined with many outfitters (13) and some good fellow hunters, including my son who is also pursuing this challenge. I have made many new friends in the duck blinds and those fellow hunters will be friends forever and hold many special memories for me.
I want to thank UWC for having a such a challenging duck hunting program for duck hunters. At age 70, as of January 21, 2019, I have reached my goal of 41 in the North America Grand Slam. Thanks to to the many friends, supporters and fellow hunters who have encouraged me in this effort. My trips have been experiences of a lifetime, especially Alaska in the winter, which I would not have pursued had it not been for this program. Best of luck to my fellow hunters, and may your quest be as meaningful and as enjoyable as mine has been.
GINA SADOWSKI
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
GINA SADOWSKI
UWC ID: WF-000-898 | MINNESOTA
OFFICIAL START DATE: October 10, 2016
COMPLETION DATE: January 10, 2019
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 43
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: MEXICAN MALLARD, EURASIAN WIGEON
What a true privilege it has been to be able to participate in The Ultimate Waterfowlers Challenge! I have been able to hunt in many incredible places and meet many just as incredible people. To be the first woman to complete this challenge is also an honor! It was not about the latter that motivated me, however, but it was the desire to experience the amazing adventures with my family and friends while hunting the different waterfowl. Some were definitely easier and accessible than others, but it was the more difficult ones that made it more challenging. I hope to hunt more species of waterfowl in different places of the world in the future. I am very thankful for how wonderful everyone has been to me throughout this challenge!
STEVE SADOWSKI
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
STEVE SADOWSKI
UWC ID: WF-000-897 | MINNESOTA
OFFICIAL START DATE: October 10, 2016
COMPLETION DATE: January 2, 2019
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 43
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: MEXICAN MALLARD, Hybrid Duck
After fulfilling the 41 North American Waterfowl Challenge, I look back at the pictures of all my adventures with great memories of all the fun times I’ve had. Waterfowl hunting has always been a passion of mine, because it allows me to spend time with my family and friends, as well as experience the great outdoors. In my lifetime, I will probably hunt these ducks again and again, and I hope to hunt ducks all around the world in the future. This sport allows me to forget the daily grind in the rest of the world and relax in the beautiful settings, where I can think only about duck hunting and being with friends. I have been truly privileged to enjoy duck hunting with my wife, my son and my great friends.
UWC MEMBERS WHO HIT THE GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL
CERTIFICATION LEVEL IN 2018
JASON VAN DYKE
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
JASON VAN DYKE
UWC ID: WF-000-149 | TEXAS
OFFICIAL START DATE: November 24, 2014
COMPLETION DATE: December 31, 2018
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 43
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: MEXICAN MALLARD, EGYPTIAN GOOSE
Completing the slam has been the most enjoyable experience in my lifetime. I am a strong believer in goal setting and challenges such as this are important to the future of waterfowl hunting because they push people to take hunts that they might not otherwise consider. My favorite part of the challenge has, without a doubt, been the sea duck hunting. Opportunities for that type of a hunt simply don’t exist in my state and it has been an absolute thrill going to the East coast, the West coast, the Bering Sea, and elsewhere to hunt these beautiful birds. The friendships I have made during the challenge, both with guides and other hunters, will hopefully last a lifetime.
Finishing a task such as this is always bittersweet because, for the past several years, the various hunts that I would schedule to knock another species off of my list were always events that I have looked forward to. I have gotten many of my friends involved in the challenge and I am hoping that my next adventure in waterfowl hunting will be to accompany them while they complete the challenge themselves. Being a species oriented hunter has also turned my attention to similar challenges – such as the National Wild Turkey Federation’s “World Slam” – as well as waterfowl hunting opportunities on other continents. I am particularly interested in completing a slam of Shelducks, which would require travel to Africa, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.
It is my hope that the UWC expands to provide additional challenges as more of its members complete the challenge. Until then, I will continue to enjoy hunting waterfowl and to broaden my horizons into hunting other types of animals.
BRANDON CROWLEY
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
BRANDON CROWLEY
UWC ID: WF-000-003 | MINNESOTA
OFFICIAL START DATE: AUGUST 14, 2014
COMPLETION DATE: DECEMBER 4, 2018
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 43
BONUS SPECIES INCLUDE: MALLARD/BWT HYBRID, ALEUTIAN TEAL
What can I say, this challenge will change your life! From the friends that I’ve made along the way, to the trials encountered chasing each specific species, you will be a different waterfowl hunter when you’ve successfully harvested all 41 species.
Being an avid outdoorsman from Minnesota, we often encounter many of the puddle ducks, diver ducks and geese but we don’t see any of the sea ducks and that’s what got me “hooked” when I first started this. One of my favorite hunts was chasing several of the sea ducks out in Massachusetts and Rhode Island in the beginning. While battling all kinds of different weather and delaying our flights so we could stay additional days, we were able to knock off 8 species on the challenge. This was huge for building momentum out of the gate. While coupling this hunt with a hunt in North Dakota, I had reached master waterfowl hunter (15 of 41 species registered) and I was well on my way to the next benchmark at 30 species.
My next two years consisted of chasing waterfowl with my black Labrador “Zeke” and many friends in Florida, Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri and Mexico. It was filled with all kinds of emotions, from some of the highest highs I’ve ever had on a hunting trip to some significant challenges when I just couldn’t find that one specific species I needed on a hunt.
When I finally reached 40 of 41 species successfully harvested, I had that one species that I just couldn’t locate, the Red-breasted Merganser! From many trips back and forth between Washington state and Massachusetts in 2017, I couldn’t find it and had to finish the season without it.
Eventually, I would find it in Alaska on December 4th, 2018 on a hunt that featured 70 mph winds, rain and snow (a Waterfowlers treat.) That day is one that I’ll never forget, celebrating with my close high school buddy Reggie and our guides over a warm dinner and victory drinks!
I advise every waterfowler to take the Ultimate Waterfowlers Challenge. It will bring so many great people and memories to your life! (Be careful though, its very addicting!)
CHRIS DECKELMANN
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
CHRIS DECKELMANN
UWC ID: WF-000-136 | WASHINGTON
OFFICIAL START DATE: November 7, 2014
COMPLETION DATE: February 13, 2018
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 48
BONUS SPECIES INCLUDE: BLONDE MALLARD, HYBRID DUCK
INTERNATIONAL SPECIES INCLUDE: AUSTRALASIAN SHOVELER, PUKEKO, BLACK SWAN, GREY DUCK, PARADISE SHELDUCK
Bio Coming Soon….
ROBERT BREWER
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
ROBERT BREWER
UWC ID: WF-000-633 | NORTH CAROLINA
OFFICIAL START DATE: February 29, 2016
COMPLETION DATE: February 10, 2018
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 42
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: MEXICAN MALLARD
My name is Robert Brewer and I’m from central North Carolina. I am an avid outdoorsman that began hunting, fishing and trapping at a very early age with my grandfather. My grandfather taught me many important things about the outdoors but most notably he taught me to respect the sport and the game that I harvest and that preservation of the sport was of the upmost importance.
As I grew into young adulthood I followed in my grandfather’s footsteps, joining the Army at 19 years old. I spent 5 years as an Infantryman in the Army and made many brothers through the close bonds the military provides. During the course of my military service I became involved with an organization called The Fallen Outdoors that takes other Veterans and active service members on hunting and fishing trips at no cost to them. I now am the East Coast Regional Director for this wonderful organization. In addition to my role with TFO I’m proud to call myself a father, a law enforcement officer in a local jurisdiction and the owner of Southern Waterfowl Company.
The Fallen Outdoors has provided for me the unique opportunity to be able to share the outdoors with brothers and sisters in service and by far my favorite aspect of the outdoors to share with them is waterfowl hunting.
Waterfowl hunting is much more than a TV show or a sticker on the back of your truck, it’s a sport with arguably more tradition and more dedication than any other. The camaraderie shared in a duck blind doesn’t compare, to me at least, to any other sport in the outdoors. The early mornings, the cold, the rain, the wind: it’s all worth it to watch those birds work into your decoy spread.
The Ultimate Waterfowler’s Challenge provided me the opportunity to achieve something greater than I had planned, the chance to harvest all registered species in North America. I set out on this quest with a goal of completing the challenge in two seasons and I am proud to say that I was able to achieve that goal.
WThe Ultimate Waterfowler’s Challenge took me to 9 different states and Mexico on a journey that totaled 34,028 miles.
WI could not be more proud to have had the help and support of many friends and family along this journey and I am thankful to the Ultimate Waterfowler’s Challenge for creating such an adventure.
Thank you!
CARY SIMONDS
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
CARY SIMONDS
UWC ID: WF-000-269 (GOLD MEMBER) | WASHINGTON
OFFICIAL START DATE: February 29, 2016
COMPLETION DATE: JANUARY 29, 2018
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 46
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: BARNACLE GOOSE, MEXICAN MALLARD, EMPEROR GOOSE, EURASIAN TEAL, EURASIAN WIGEON
INTERNAIL SPECIES HARVESTED: 1
(NOT INCLUDED IN NORTH AMERICAN WATERFOWL CHALLENGE)
INTERNATIONAL BIRDS INCLUDE: COMMON POCHARD
I began collecting waterfowl species just recently and have found that I LOVE this sport. I have collected big game species my entire adult life, all with a bow and arrow. After 25 trips to Africa and many other travels, I decided that I would stop that sport, except on our ranch, where we hunt deer, elk, moose, cougar, bear and turkeys! I began my waterfowl pursuits with” sea duck hunting”, and that type of hunting is still my favorite type of waterfowl hunting! I love the “Social Aspect” of duck and goose hunting and particularly, I appreciate being able to talk and laugh while hunting. This is quite a contrast with the “Silence expected in Bow Hunting”! I’ve learned so much while in the blind with other hunters and guides, it’s really been a pleasure, I consider myself a conservationist, and I believe we sportsmen have the responsibility to care for our wildlife and wild lands. I’ve found that most of the waterfowl hunters I’ve met feel the same about conserving these Beautiful bird species. I feel privileged to be a small part of UWC. I think that the effort of collecting different species of Ducks and Geese is a great way to become educated about these wonderful birds. Therefore I fully support UWC and I hope that all we waterfowl hunters become a part of this rapidly growing Organization.
SEAN TOMLIN
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
SEAN TOMLIN
UWC ID: WF-000-272 | VIRGINIA
OFFICIAL START DATE: January 5, 2016
COMPLETION DATE: JANUARY 5, 2018
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 50
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: HYBRID DUCK, MEXICAN MALLARD, EURASIAN TEAL, BREWERS DUCK, EURASIAN WIGEON, TUFTED DUCK, PINK FOOTED GOOSE, BARNACLE GOOSE, EGYPTIAN GOOSE
INTERNATIONAL SPECIES HARVESTED: 19
(NOT INCLUDED IN THE NORTH AMERICAN WATERFOWL CHALLENGE)
INTERNATIONAL BIRDS INCLUDE: BRAZILIAN TEAL, WHITE FACED WHISTLING DUCK, ROSY BILLED POCHARD, GREYLAG GOOSE, AFRICAN PYGMY GOOSE, HOTTENTOT TEAL, YELLOW BILLED DUCK, SPURWING GOOSE, EGYPTIAN GOOSE, AFRICAN SHELL DUCK, WHITE BLACKED DUCK, BLACK RIVER DUCK, SOUTHERN POCHARD, RED BILLED TEAL, CAPE SHOVELER, KNOB BILLED DUCK, ZULU DUCK
Wow!! What a journey it has been! This challenge has taken me places few ever get to experience. It helped me to make new friends and build stronger bonds with old ones. It caused me to set out on a 3 week expedition to hunt all 4 flyways in one season, to hit the road with just a little equipment, mans best friend, hard work and a lot of luck. To endure the defeat of some days and the success of others. Some people think this challenge is all about “the trophy”, it’s not!! It’s about seeing what all our great country has to offer, the sunrises and sunsets, the freedom to carry our guns to every diverse habitat the birds we love enhabit, the extremes in which they adapt, to find a little something more in ourselves, to test our resolve, our wits and our skill. Some of my greatest memories on this challenge doesn’t even involve killing, exempi gratia, a small group of 8 Longtailed Ducks banking 4 yards in front of me in a layout boat and chatter laughing at me, Stellars Eiders swimming in my decoys 10 yards away, listening to children in a blind discuss there duck hunting careers, the dog looking up to the sky anticipating falling ducks, watching someone have a meltdown over best laid plans falling through, the scratching my head in amazement as to where in the hell the ducks get their Kevlar vests and the wonder of what’s going to come in next. I tip my hat to all who reach the pinnacle of this challenge, you have been weighed, you have been measured and you have not been found wanting. Good luck in your pursuit!
UWC MEMBERS WHO HIT THE GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL
CERTIFICATION LEVEL IN 2017
DAN WENNERLIND
CERTIFIED GRAND MASTER WATERFOWL HUNTER
DAN WENNERLIND
UWC ID: WF-000-001 | MINNESOTA
OFFICIAL START DATE: AUGUST 14, 2014
COMPLETION DATE: DECEMBER 12, 2017
TOTAL SPECIES HARVESTED TO DATE: 43
BONUS BIRDS INCLUDE: HYBRID DUCK, MEXICAN MALLARD
Looking back from when I first decided to take “The Challenge” to complete the North American Waterfowl Grand Slam, the journey has been far more incredible then anything I could have ever imagined.
Solid friendships have been formed and enhanced during this 3 ½ year journey with fellow waterfowlers that will be in my life until I depart from this earth. I feel that along the way my faith was strengthened. The breathtaking mountain views from Alaska and Washington were truly amazing! The first sunrise off the California coast was absolutely gorgeous and so was the last sunset over the coastal marsh in Mexico. There were so many cool moments encountering God’s incredible creation! many times I felt His presence with me along the way.
The best way I can describe The UWC Challenge is comparing it to training and completing my first and only marathon. At first it was just fun. Each time out was just an exciting time to try and knock off as many new species as I could. As it progressed, it got harder and harder to knock off the missing birds on my list and thus the journey became more and more intense. Towards the end, extensive time and effort went into planning each hunt for the desired birds, and with it distant travel to remote locations across the continent as the pursuit ensued.
The feeling I had when I pulled the trigger for the last time and watched a big drake Barrows Goldeneye plummet into the waters of the Puget Sound in Washington on December 12, 2017 was indescribable. Much like crossing the finish line in my marathon many years ago, it was surreal. I felt a sense of inner peace and personal satisfaction. It was almost like, I can’t believe it’s really over, I DID IT.
I highly encourage anyone that has started or is thinking about taking “The Challenge” to Just Do It. Whether it takes you 5 years or 50 years to complete it, The Journey will change your life forever!
KING EIDER
HARLEQUIN
MOTTLED DUCK