BISMARCK, NORTH DAKOTA — The Duck Hunters Organization has released a stirring short film that documents a critical contribution to the future of waterfowl conservation: the recruitment of a new duck hunter.

Presented by YETI, “Passage” is a heartwarming journey in which young adult Hayden Wiatrek expresses interest in waterfowling, and soon finds himself pitching decoys with Delta Waterfowl volunteer Chad Yoes outside a southeast Kansas duck blind.

“The topic for the first of many Delta Waterfowl films was selected very intentionally,” said Brad Heidel, senior director of marketing and corporate relations for Delta Waterfowl. “Introducing newcomers to duck hunting, especially young adults who can hunt independently right away, is essential to ensuring the future of waterfowl hunting and conservation. We thank YETI, the Wiatrek family and Chad Yoes for helping share this important message.”

Delta Waterfowl’s HunteR3 programs are leading the charge to recruit new duck hunters and in turn secure the future of waterfowl hunting. Central to the effort is an army of volunteer hunting mentors, including Yoes, chairman of Delta’s Benton County Chapter in Bentonville, Arkansas.

“What’s important for hunters to remember is we have to create opportunities for others, and it’s not easy,” Yoes notes during the film. “Virtually all of us have the same story — somebody else invited us to go hunting. Somebody taught you how to do it.”

As you view the footage of mallards, pintails and Canada geese cupping their wings, you’ll relive the thrills of your first hunt, think fondly on your hunting mentor, and perhaps become inspired to mentor a new waterfowler yourself this season.

“Passage” was shot, edited and produced by Delta Waterfowl videographer Ben Peterson. Experience the film today at DeltaWaterfowl.org/Passage.

For more information, contact Brad Heidel at (651) 403-1772 or bheidel@deltawaterfowl.org.

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.