FDshelf

Field & water

Pheasant and waterfowl seasons on the plains, cold water, thick cover, conditioning and the gear that earns its place in the truck.

Every entry on this shelf

3 entries

A yellow Labrador pushing through a stand of dead cattails at the edge of a shallow marsh on a cold December morning, head low, tail visible above the stems, low sun behind the dog and frost on the near bank. — Plate FD-003

FD-003Field & water

Reading Cover: Cattails, CRP Grass, Shelterbelts

How a Labrador quarters cattails, CRP grass and shelterbelts on the northern plains, how wind carries scent, and how that differs from a spaniel or pointing

02/09/2026

A yellow Labrador trotting through frost-covered CRP grass at sunrise in the northern plains, with a pheasant wing on a check cord visible in the foreground and a hunter's silhouette in the far background. — Plate FD-002

FD-002Field & water

Conditioning a Labrador for Pheasant Season

A twelve-week plan from August to October: walking, swimming, hill work, cover work, heat rules, and the weight to reach on opening day.

29/08/2026

A wet yellow Labrador standing on frozen stubble at the edge of a shallow slough in low December morning light, steam rising off its back, a folded towel and a dry coat on the tailgate of a pickup behind it, medium shot from the side. — Plate FD-001

FD-001Field & water

Cold Water in December: How Long a Labrador Can Work

Water temperature, wind, coat, and body fat decide how long a Labrador can work a slough in December, plus the signs of hypothermia and when to call the

26/08/2026