As a member of the Ducks Unlimited TV crew I have been fortunate to work and hunt with some of the best outfitters, guides, callers, and dogs in the waterfowl industry. In last eight weeks we have diligently followed the fall migration south from Alberta and Saskatchewan to North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Illinois.

We have hunted Devils Lake, ND where the seemingly possessed body of water is literally swallowing up thousands of acres as it steadily expands. We hunted the actual waters of Green Bay (which thanks to the zebra mussel isn’t all that green anymore) and toured Lambeau Field – the home of the Packers. And, we’ve hunted the historic Illinois River Valley and seen the home of famed carver Charles Perdew.

Interestingly enough this was my first opportunity to field-test a pair of boots day-in and day-out for three solid weeks. We all know there are boots for every occasion and outdoor discipline, but when I looked at the DUTV production schedule last month I knew I needed a versatile boot that would stand up to the rigors of the never-ending waterfowl season.

Whether I’m dry field hunting in insulated bibs or simply using my boots to get me from the motel to the boat ramp, the boots had to meet a strict criterion: waterproof, warm, surefooted, and easy to slip on and off.

First, briar oiled leather with the Chip-A-Tex waterproof membrane was a no-brainer. Second, I wanted toasty warm phalanges and 400-grams of Thinsulate sounded like it would do the trick. Third, the fairly aggressive Montana Vibram sole would undoubtedly provide the necessary grip. And fourth, an easy on/off 10-inch topped pull-on would round out my requirements.

Can you guess which Chippewa boot I have just painstakingly described? It’s non other than the 10-inch Briar Norwegian Welt. I know what you’re thinking. The Norwegian Welt series? It’s probably not the first boot that comes to mind. But it should be! Even though it doesn’t conjure up classic images like the Chippewa Super Logger or snake boot, for me it was the perfect fit – in more ways than one. You should really check it out!

With three solid outings in my Norwegians (North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Illinois) and four more hunts booked before the end of the year (Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, and Chesapeake Bay) it’s safe to say these boots are going to experience some serious wear and tear. Including the in between outings with my favorite duck caller – three and half year old Will Garner.

Keep in mind it doesn't matter if you're hunting big spreads in Central Saskatchewan or puddle ducks in Muskogee, Oklahoma Living in Chippewa Boots is what you make it. And frankly I’d like to know how you do it?

P.S. Any migratory bird information would be greatly appreciated.