January 5, 2023

Dream Hunt Giveaway Recap

GRAND PRIZE WINNER: Dallas Godwin
GUEST: Dustin Smith
HOST: Goosebusters
LOCATION: Alliance, Nebraska
OTHER SPONSORS: Migra Ammunition, The Finisher, Toxic Calls

This year’s Hunt Giveaway winner, Dallas, and his friend Dustin left the warmth of Florida to spend a few freezing days with us on the North Platte River. This year’s hunt was hosted by Goosebusters LLC in Alliance, Nebraska. Owner and head guide, Jim Childers, and guide TJ, pulled out all the stops to make sure this hunt was one to remember and that Dallas and Dustin got the full experience of a hunt of a lifetime.

With temperatures dropping near zero, snow on the ground, and the river starting to freeze up, day one put us in a cornfield. The guys got fitted in their new GW gear, opting for the added warmth of the Shield Insulated Waders to combat the arctic temps, and we headed out to set a goose spread. As the name suggests, the guys ‘busted’ big Canada Geese like seasoned pros. A few hours after setting out decoys, we were picking them back up (with a pile of geese and a ton of laughs to boot). A quick bite to eat in town and it was up to the hills to chase some coyotes to fill the evening hours.

Jim set us up on the river the next morning. Slightly warmer temps left just enough open water and current for a big spread on some of the most beautiful ground an outdoorsman can imagine. Dallas and Dustin wasted no time bagging their first mallards and quickly followed suit with some wigeon. Day two was spent telling stories, cracking jokes, and picking away at a limit of ducks and geese when they finally decided to fly. Jim and TJ showed their skill and experience working in shy birds and changing the setup throughout the day as wind and bird patterns changed.

Triggers were pulled, birds were bagged, and memories were made. The hunting was great, but the company was even better.

"The day was spent telling stories, cracking jokes, and picking away at a limit of ducks and geese when they finally decided to fly."

A special thanks to Goosebusters LLC for hosting this year’s hunt and Migra Ammunition for supplying the steel. We look forward to our 2023 Hunt Giveaway. Who knows, you might just find yourself sharing a blind with us here at Gator Waders.