Most waterfowl hunters are keenly aware that daily duck limits are set based on complex math, vary for certain species, and can fluctuate from one year to the next. So, based on this conditioning, you might conclude that hunting is the most common way ducks die.

But is it? A Special Report in the Winter Issue of Delta Waterfowl magazine, “The Ways Ducks Die,” by Delta’s senior manager of communications, Paul Wait, reveals the top causes of duck mortality—and explains why hunter harvest actually plays a very minor role.

So, hunt free of any feelings of guilt over bagging a few ducks. And further, improve your success with the feature story, “Winning Strategies: Winter Waterfowling,” by Brad Fenson. Its cutting-edge tips help ensure that when the mercury drops, ducks and geese will into your spread, too.

Are you doing your part to mentor a new waterfowler this season? In “From Clays Shooters to Duck Hunters,” Delta communications director Bill Miller explains why your local gun club might be an overlooked pipeline for you—and your Delta chapter—to champion hunter recruitment.

Hunt public land enough times, and the story, “De-Escalation for Duck Hunters,” will likely prove useful. It’s a handy guide to ensuring cooler heads prevail whenever turf’s in dispute.

Gray ducks, anyone? Renowned photographer Gary Kramer provides this issue’s photo feature, a stunning gallery of the unsung and underrated gadwall.

And here’s another fun one: In “The Uncommon Goldeneye,” you’ll follow along as an Alaskan hunter’s chance encounter with a drake ‘whistler’ alters the course of his ambitions.

We close out the issue with a Last Pass column, “Alarm Clock Karma,” in which editor Kyle Wintersteen reveals the key to helping your buddies succeed: Just oversleep.

As always, the Winter Issue carries a full slate of informative and entertaining columns such as Duck Dogs, Shotgunning, Strategies, Waterfowl Chef, and Duckology to help you get the most from your waterfowl season.

The only way to receive Delta Waterfowl magazine is to join The Duck Hunters Organization. If you are a member, thank you for your support. The Winter Issue is on the way!

To join Delta Waterfowl, Call (888) 987-3695 or visit www.deltawaterfowl.org/memberships.

Delta Waterfowl Foundation is The Duck Hunters Organization, a leading conservation group working to produce ducks and secure the future of duck hunting in North America. Visit deltawaterfowl.org.