Chesapeake Bay Decoys & the Craftsmen Who Shaped Waterfowling History (Ep 757)
The Chesapeake Bay is home to some of the richest decoy and waterfowling traditions in North America — and today’s guest, Chad Tragakis, is one of its most passionate historians.
Chad is a longtime decoy collector, writer, editor for Decoy Magazine, and a respected storyteller of the makers, clubs, boats, and communities that built the decoy culture along the Atlantic Flyway. Host Katie Burke sits down with Chad for a wide-ranging conversation that explores the origins of collecting, the legacy of iconic craftsmen, and the unique waterman traditions that still shape the region today.
In this episode:
- How a $20 scoter decoy started Chad’s lifelong passion
- The foundational books every new collector should read
- Chesapeake Bay as the “decoy capital of the world”
- Sink boxes, sporting yachts, and the golden era of upper-bay gunning
- Why the region produced tens of thousands of working decoys
- Haver de Grace vs. Northeast River styles — what sets them apart
- How form, tradition, and community shape regional carving
- Charlie Joiner’s legacy & what he learned from Mitchell and the Ward Brothers
- The culture of shop visits, mentorship, and generational knowledge
- Advice for beginning collectors & why building a library matters
- The importance of preserving working decoys as American folk art
This episode is a celebration of craftsmanship, history, and the people who keep America’s decoy tradition alive.
Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org
SPONSORS:
Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.
Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:
Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.
Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org
SPONSORS:
Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.
Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:
Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.
Creators and Guests
