Following the annual waterfowl migration from beginning to end? If you’re a waterfowler, this is your dream fall. This was also Cole Fabro’s mission when he decided to collaborate with HuntStand on a unique new series. It started in Wisconsin with big Canada geese (watch Episode 1 here). The second stop was supposed to be Iowa, but hold on, this is hunting, and there’s an unexpected twist. As the team pivots, the second SOUTHBOUND stop becomes Kansas.
Started Young
Fabro couldn’t wait to get started on his SOUTHBOUND quest. He’s a dedicated waterfowler, and was excited to do some traveling and find some birds. It’s no surprise that Fabro grew up in a hunting family. His early hunting was mainly for deer and pheasant. Then a high-school buddy got him into waterfowling, and he’s been chasing the birds ever since.
Swing & Miss in Iowa
After following a big snowstorm from Wisconsin to Iowa, Fabro’s team runs into an unexpected surprise. On Day One of their hunt in Iowa, they realize a problem. A big problem. The birds have left. What to do? Any good waterfowler worth the title knows how to roll with Mother Nature’s punches. Luckily, Fabro is a master. Soon he’s on the phone to a buddy in Kansas. A new plan is hatched.
Kansas Redemption
Arriving in Kansas, Fabro’s team opts for hunting water. The group chose water versus field hunts because there was a lot of fresh birds in the area. After checking the LandZone wind map in HuntStand, it was obvious they would face no wind and fairly sunny conditions. Day One in Kansas was a challenge, but the second day was much better. Hunting grass and water was the key, including using the Alpha Waterfowl Blinds from ALPS OutdoorZ. They fold flat for storage, and worked very nicely as the team turned its fortunes around.
Despite challenges in Iowa, the group ended its Kansas trip on a very good note. More good news? Plenty more waterfowl hunting still awaits. It’s once again time to head SOUTHBOUND.
