New Louisiana Hunting Opportunity! Plus shotgun shells, & waterfowl talk with Damon Hebert - Ep. 22

Mr. Damon Abair, a shotgun shell company owner, discusses Louisiana's first early tree duck season, the impact of the season on waterfowl populations, and the decline in blue wing teal numbers. The conversation also covers the banding of ducks and the potential impact of habitat loss on waterfowl populations. The conversation delves into the importance of appreciating the hunting experience beyond the numbers, emphasizing gratitude and humility. It then transitions to a discussion about shotgun shells, customer service, and the unique selling points of a smaller hometown company. The conversation further explores the impact of shotgun shell load and pellet size on hunting success, followed by a focus on favorite loads and custom orders. Finally, it touches on the acquisition of the company and its growth. The conversation covers a range of topics related to waterfowl hunting, including hunting techniques, population trends, hunting with antique and silhouette decoys, the art of duck calling, and the importance of waterfowl management. The speakers also discuss the impact of hunting pressure on duck behavior and the importance of resting ducks to maintain healthy populations. Additionally, they touch on the business aspect of waterfowl hunting, including recommendations and ordering from Shanier Shot Shells. Takeaways - Introduction to Mr. Damon Abair and his shotgun shell company - Discussion about the impact of Louisiana's early tree duck season - Concerns about declining blue wing teal numbers and the potential impact of habitat loss on waterfowl populations Appreciate the hunting experience beyond numbers - Customer service and custom orders are key differentiators for smaller companies - Shotgun shell load and pellet size impact hunting success Importance of managing hunting pressure to maintain healthy duck populations - The role of antique and silhouette decoys in waterfowl hunting Chapters - 00:00 Introduction to Mr. Damon Abair and His Shotgun Shell Company - 07:20 Banding Ducks and Blue Wing Teal Numbers - 28:38 Appreciating the Experience - 41:02 Shotgun Shell Load and Pellet Size - 49:09 Favorite Load and Custom Orders - 55:24 Company Acquisition and Growth - 01:00:41 Population Expansion and Habitat Changes - 01:06:36 Hunting with Antique Decoys and Silhouette Decoys - 01:13:01 The Art of Duck Hunting and Ethical Practices - 01:18:30 The Impact of Hunting Pressure on Duck Behavior