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Wade Skeen - Skeen Gundogs & Outfitters
About this Episode
#36 Wade Skeen takes us deep into the changing landscape of American waterfowl hunting, revealing how agricultural practices have dramatically shifted migration patterns away from traditional southern flyways. The owner of Skeen Gundogs and Outfitters in south central Kansas explains why the Midwest has become a duck hunting paradise: drought-resistant seed varieties pushing corn production northward, no-till farming leaving billions of bushels of waste grain in fields, and significantly less hunting pressure than traditional destinations like Arkansas and Louisiana.
Drawing from his journey from Mississippi through military service to establishing his Kansas outfitting business, Wade shares how his dog training philosophy evolved from working with high-drive American Labs to the more methodical British retrievers. His personal transformation as a trainer culminates in wisdom that resonates for handlers at any level: "Embrace the process. Don't worry about outcomes. Judge each day individually, and when the process is complete, your dog will exceed expectations."
The conversation explores the unique aspects of Kansas hunting seasons, with Wade focusing his guiding efforts on December and January when waterfowl patterns are most reliable. Unlike many outfitters, he encourages clients to bring their own retrievers, understanding the special bond between hunters and their dogs while ensuring safety and hunt quality remain priorities. Whether targeting mallards on the river or setting up for massive feeds of lesser Canada geese in dry fields, his approach emphasizes versatility and adaptation to conditions.
Ready to experience the Kansas waterfowl advantage? Wade still has limited dates available for the upcoming season. Listen now to understand why serious duck hunters are looking westward and how embracing the training process will transform your gundog experience.
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