Few people have had as lasting an impact on duck hunting as Buck Gardner. In 1996, he founded Buck Gardner Calls after achieving success in competitive duck calling and call-making. He was one of the first to bring premium duck and goose calls to the masses, and for many, myself included, was the first duck call they owned. Today, nearly 30 years later, BG Calls is still making exceptional calls that are blown across the country by waterfowlers. But Buck Gardner’s legacy extends far beyond his call-making prowess. He was a loving family man, dedicated outdoorsman and conservationist, and mentor to countless hunters interested in waterfowl hunting.
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of Buck Gardner’s passing at the age of 76. Gardner passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025. His passion for waterfowl hunting, call making, and the community as a whole has touched the lives of countless hunters. To the man who inspired so many of us, thank you, and may the sound of your calls echoing through the marsh continue to inspire the next generation of waterfowlers.