Delaware waterfowl & trout stamp competition winners

First-time winners Gerald Putt and Charles Wurst received blue ribbons in Delaware’s Waterfowl and Trout Stamp contests. Putt’s Northern Shoveler will appear on the 2026/27 Waterfowl Stamp, while Wurst’s brown trout will be on the 2026 Trout Stamp, the Department of Natural Resources announced. 

“Two first-time winners in Delaware’s wildlife stamp contests is rare,” said DNREC’s Pat Emory. “It’s a positive sign that we encourage new artists to compete against top wildlife artists each year.”

The contest received 14 entries for the 2026/27 Waterfowl Stamp, featuring a Northern Shoveler in marshland, and 8 for the 2026 Trout Stamp, depicting rainbow, brown, or brook trout.

Gerry Putt, winner of the 2026/27 Delaware Waterfowl Stamp, receives $2,500 and 150 limited-edition prints. With over 45 years of experience, he’s illustrated 28 state duck stamps, including 14 in Pennsylvania and six others, now adding Delaware. Inspired by a pond near his childhood home, Putt believes artists must continually improve with each new work.

Charlie Wurst, winner of the 2026 Delaware Trout Stamp, receives $250 and rights to reproduce his artwork. Passionate about art, fishing, and military aviation, Wurst modestly said he doesn’t enter many contests but was excited to try his best. His winning trout painting is now a favorite among Delaware anglers.

Learn more about Delaware’s Waterfowl Stamp and Trout Stamp contests.