Ridge and River Running Outfitters specializes in big water duck hunts on Pool 9 of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge, roughly 30 miles south of LaCrosse and 30 miles north of Prairie du Chien. Jeremy Dersham's operation is one of only 8 commercial waterfowlers licensed to hunt Pools 4-14 on the Upper Mississippi.

The Mississippi River hosts up to 75% of the continental Canvasback population during migration—that's "The King of Ducks." You'll also find Redheads, Buffleheads, Ringnecks, Goldeneyes, Mallards, Wood Ducks, and Canada Geese. Bald Eagles are abundant year-round.

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What's included:

•Customized duck boat with heaters and seating
•100-200 decoys
•Experienced Labrador retriever
•Snacks and beverages
•Daily hunts: 3-4am start, ending around 1pm

Package	Price
1-2 hunters	$500/day
3 hunters	$735/day
4 hunters	$960/day

50% non-refundable deposit required at booking, plus 3% USFWS user fee.

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Early Season and Small Water Waterfowl

Not interested in big water? RRR Outfitters also hunts south-central Wisconsin fields and small waters near Reedsburg and Portage—about 45-55 miles north of Madison. Early season Canada Geese (Sept 1-15) and Teal (Sept 1-7) hunts, plus early duck season (September-October) for Mallards, Wood Ducks, Wigeon, and Gadwalls.

These hunts use layout blinds, boat blinds, and temporary blinds with silhouette, full-body, and floating decoys. Daily hunts run 4-5am to around 1pm.

•Pricing: $200 per hunter per day (groups of 4-6 available upon request)

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Spring Turkey Hunts: 85% Success Rate

Reedsburg-based turkey hunts take place on rolling hardwood hills with whispering pines and agricultural fields—both private and public land. The operation runs an 85% success rate hunting near roosts, feeding areas, and traffic zones where Wisconsin wild turkeys congregate.

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Hunt structure:

•2½-day hunt (typically Saturday through Monday)
•Comfortable blind with guide
•Guide picks you up at your hotel each morning, drops you off each evening
•1 turkey per permit

•Pricing: $600 per hunter for the 2½-day hunt

Wisconsin is a draw state—apply by December 10 through the DNR. Leftover spring permits typically available mid-to-late March. RRR Outfitters walks you through the licensing process.

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About Jeremy Dersham

Owner-operator since 2009. Started hunting the ridges and rivers of south-central Wisconsin as a toddler. UW-Platteville graduate (Bachelor of Arts in Education). Licensed USCG Captain (OUPV/Six-pack). Ducks Unlimited committee member and dedicated conservationist focused on land and water management for wildlife.

He's guided hundreds on deer, turkey, waterfowl, and fishing hunts. Featured in Outdoor Life, Field and Stream, Realtree, Delta Waterfowl, Kent Cartridge, and Cabela's Spring Thunder. Judge for Wisconsin state turkey calling contests and regional waterfowl competitions.

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What to Bring

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All hunts require:

•Gun and ammo (30 lbs or less for Mississippi River hunts)
•Chest waders
•Camouflage face mask or paint
•Layered and rain gear
•Binoculars and camera

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Licenses required:

•Wisconsin small game license
•HIP certification
•Wisconsin state waterfowl stamp
•Federal Migratory Bird stamp

Purchase through Wisconsin DNR

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Mission & Operations

Established in 2009 as a fully licensed and insured LLC. Mission: provide safe, unforgettable outdoor adventures; protect the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge and Wisconsin lands; leave hunting areas better than found.

No lodging offered on-site, but staff recommends local options upon request. All hunts require signed hunting contract and 50% non-refundable deposit at booking.

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