Roosters + FRESH SNOW! Late Season Pheasant Hunt Video

 

A fresh blank of snow made for perfect conditions to hunt late season pheasants!

 

Top Tips for Hunting Pheasants in the Winter

Winter pheasant hunting presents unique challenges and opportunities for hunters. As the landscape changes and bird behavior shifts with the cold weather, successful pheasant hunting requires careful preparation, strategic thinking, and specialized techniques.

1. Dress for Extreme Conditions

Winter hunting demands proper clothing. Layer your attire with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell. Thermal camouflage gear helps you stay warm while remaining concealed. Don't forget insulated, waterproof boots, thick wool socks, and hand warmers to protect against freezing temperatures.

2. Understand Winter Bird Behavior

During winter, pheasants conserve energy and seek shelter in dense cover. They congregate in areas with thick grass, cattails, shelterbelts, and brushy draws that provide protection from wind and cold. Focus your hunting efforts around these habitat types, especially during harsh weather conditions.

3. Hunt During Optimal Times

Pheasants are most active during midday when temperatures are slightly warmer. Unlike fall hunting, winter birds tend to move less and concentrate in smaller areas. Plan your hunting trips between 10 AM and 2 PM when birds are more likely to be out searching for food and sunlight.

4. Use the Right Shotgun and Ammunition

Cold weather hunting requires reliable equipment. Choose a shotgun that performs well in low temperatures and use modified or full chokes for longer, more accurate shots. Select heavier loads like 4 or 5 shot, which provide better penetration through thick winter plumage and provide more effective range.

5. Employ Strategic Hunting Techniques

Winter hunting demands patience and precision. Walk slowly and systematically through potential pheasant habitats. Use hunting dogs trained to work in cold conditions, as they can help flush birds from dense cover. Move quietly and be prepared for quick, unexpected bird movements.

6. Focus on Food Sources

In winter, pheasants concentrate near reliable food sources. Look for agricultural fields with leftover corn, sorghum, or other grains. Edges of harvested fields, particularly those near protective cover, are prime hunting locations.

7. Consider Snow Conditions

Snow can be both a challenge and an advantage. Fresh snow makes tracking pheasants easier, revealing their movement patterns. However, deep snow can limit bird mobility and make hunting more difficult. Learn to read snow tracks and understand how different snow conditions affect pheasant behavior.

8. Safety First

Winter hunting introduces additional safety considerations. Always hunt with a partner, carry emergency supplies, and inform someone of your hunting location and expected return time. Be prepared for rapid weather changes and potential hypothermia risks.

9. Check Local Regulations

Winter hunting seasons and regulations vary by state. Confirm specific dates, bag limits, and any special winter hunting restrictions before heading out. Some areas might have shortened seasons or specific zone limitations during winter months.

10. Maintain Your Equipment

Cold temperatures can affect hunting gear. Keep firearms clean and properly lubricated with winter-grade oils. Protect optics from fogging and moisture. Bring spare batteries for electronic devices, as cold can drain them quickly.

Conclusion

Winter pheasant hunting offers a challenging and rewarding experience for dedicated hunters. By understanding bird behavior, preparing thoroughly, and adapting your techniques to winter conditions, you can increase your chances of a successful hunt. Remember, patience, preparation, and respect for the environment are key to an enjoyable winter hunting experience.

Pheasant Hunt Hector MN Dec 12th 2024

 

On a surprisingly mild December day, with temperatures hovering around 45 degrees, Tasha and I met up with our friend Tony and his two shorthair pointers for an afternoon hunt. We started by working the eastern edge of the field, with Tasha making a few tentative points but failing to flush any birds. Realizing the terrain wasn't promising, we shifted our focus to the thicker cover.

The recent freeze had transformed the wet areas, including the pond, giving us easier access to the densest section of the property. I noticed several old pheasant droppings in the cattails, but the tracks appeared days old. Undeterred, we methodically moved between thick and thin cover, hoping to flush a bird into a good pointing position.

As we approached the north side of the dense vegetation, we heard Tony fire a couple of shots. A rooster took flight, landing on the neighboring property—a near miss. We continued our hunt, thinking the warmer temperatures might drive birds into lighter cover. Our patience was partially rewarded with a promising point, but it turned out to be just a hen.

Returning to the thick cover proved more productive. We flushed six additional birds, all hens, clustered along the edges of the dense vegetation. We pondered whether we were too early—it was only 2 PM—or if the birds had already moved to feeding grounds or shifted to another part of the property.

Despite not bagging a rooster, the hunt was enjoyable. Tasha had a great time, her nose full of bird scent, and Tony's dogs were equally enthusiastic. The unseasonably warm weather and the thrill of the hunt made for a satisfying afternoon, especially considering we were only in the field for a brief 90 minutes.

Gear Used.
Danner Sharptail boots
Final Rise Vest
15+ year old Columbia hunting pants.
Garmin Alpha 300
Dogtra t&b collars

Top 10 Dog Breeds for Pheasant Hunting

Pheasant hunting is a thrilling and challenging outdoor activity that requires both skill and preparation. One of the most important elements of a successful pheasant hunt is having the right dog by your side. A good pheasant hunting dog must have strong scenting abilities, excellent fieldwork skills, and the stamina to handle long hours in varied terrain. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a novice looking for your first hunting companion, choosing the right breed is crucial.

Here are the top 10 dog breeds best suited for pheasant hunting:

1. English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a classic hunting dog known for its versatility and intelligence. This breed excels at flushing out pheasants from dense cover and can retrieve both on land and in water. Their friendly, eager-to-please personality makes them easy to train, and they have plenty of energy to work in the field all day.

Key Traits:

• Great scenting ability
• Excellent flushing skills
• Enthusiastic and high-energy
• Great in both upland and waterfowl hunting

2. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular hunting dogs in the world, and for good reason. These dogs are known for their natural retrieving instincts, strong scenting ability, and calm demeanor. While they are most commonly associated with waterfowl hunting, they also make excellent upland bird hunters, including pheasants. Their stamina and drive make them ideal for long hunting sessions.

Key Traits:

• Exceptional retrieving instincts
• Strong scenting ability
• Versatile and adaptable in various hunting environments
• Friendly and loyal temperament

3. German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is a highly versatile hunting dog with a strong prey drive and excellent scenting ability. GSPs are well-known for their ability to track, point, and retrieve pheasants in the field. Their high energy and enthusiasm for hunting, combined with their intelligence, make them one of the top choices for pheasant hunters who need a hard-working and reliable companion.

Key Traits:

• Strong scenting and pointing ability
• High energy and endurance
• Smart and trainable
• Excellent on both upland and waterfowl hunts

4. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a versatile and hardy dog that excels in harsh environments. Known for its excellent scenting abilities and ability to work in thick cover, the Griffon is a superb choice for pheasant hunters. Its wiry coat offers protection in dense brush, and its tenacity ensures that it can work long hours in the field without tiring.

Key Traits:

• Strong scenting and pointing skills
• Durable, wiry coat for protection in dense cover
• Excellent stamina and work ethic
• Good in cold and wet conditions

5. Brittany Spaniel

The Brittany Spaniel (often just called a Brittany) is a high-energy, compact bird dog known for its exceptional fieldwork and pointing ability. Though it’s one of the smaller breeds, it has a huge heart and a tremendous drive to hunt. Its natural ability to find and flush pheasants in thick cover, coupled with its agility and stamina, makes it an ideal hunting companion.

Key Traits:

• Exceptional pointing instincts
• High energy and stamina
• Agile and fast in the field
• Very trainable and eager to please

6. Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a highly skilled hunting dog with a sleek coat and powerful frame. Known for its excellent nose and ability to track down pheasants over long distances, the Weimaraner is a versatile dog that can handle both upland and waterfowl hunting. This breed's high energy and stamina make it well-suited to long, strenuous days in the field.

Key Traits:

• Strong scenting and tracking ability
• Fast and agile
• High energy and endurance
• Independent but trainable

7. Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel may be smaller than some other hunting breeds, but its determination and excellent scenting abilities make it a great choice for pheasant hunting. Cocker Spaniels are known for their ability to work in dense cover and for their natural talent as flushers. Their smaller size allows them to maneuver easily through thick brush, and their retrieving abilities make them a reliable choice for hunters.

Key Traits:

• Strong flushing instincts
• Small, agile, and adaptable in dense cover
• Easy to train and eager to please
• Excellent for hunters looking for a compact bird dog

8. Pointer (English or American)

Pointers, both English and American, are renowned for their exceptional pointing ability and strong prey drive. Their highly sensitive noses allow them to detect pheasants from long distances, and they are known for holding their point steady until the hunter gets close. Their lean, athletic build allows them to cover vast amounts of ground efficiently.

Key Traits:

• Excellent pointing and scenting abilities
• Steady and reliable in the field
• Great stamina and endurance
• Intelligent and responsive to training

9. Shorthair Pointer

The Shorthair Pointer (also known as the German Shorthaired Pointer) is a highly energetic and versatile hunting dog. This breed excels in a variety of terrains, from open fields to thick brush. With their strong scenting abilities and natural pointing instinct, Shorthair Pointers are often used by hunters looking for a dog that can both track and retrieve pheasants.

Key Traits:

• Superb pointing and retrieving abilities
• Strong scenting capability
• High endurance and energy levels
• Very versatile in upland hunting

10. Vizsla

The Vizsla is an elegant and athletic breed known for its natural pointing and retrieving skills. Their high energy and friendly temperament make them excellent companions for pheasant hunters. Vizslas have a strong nose for scenting and are equally comfortable in dense cover or open fields. This breed is also known for its loyalty and bond with its handler.

Key Traits:

• Excellent pointing and retrieving instincts
• Friendly and loyal
• Energetic and good stamina
• Very trainable and eager to please

Conclusion

When choosing the best dog breed for pheasant hunting, it’s important to consider factors such as scenting ability, fieldwork skills, stamina, and temperament. Each of these 10 breeds excels in different aspects of pheasant hunting, but they all share the drive and intelligence needed for a successful day in the field. Whether you're looking for a dog to flush birds from dense cover, point and track pheasants, or retrieve your game, one of these breeds is sure to be the perfect hunting companion.

When selecting your dog, consider your hunting style, preferred terrain, and the amount of training you’re prepared to invest. With the right breed, you’ll have a loyal and hardworking partner that will help you enjoy many successful hunting seasons ahead.

 

Pheasant Hunt Stewart MN November 17 2024

It had been just over a week since our nearly 7-year-old Val passed away after a hunt, and I wasn't quite ready to hunt again. However, our 12-year-old setter, Tasha, was tired of being cooped up at home. On a fairly nice day with 50-degree temperatures and a slight breeze, I loaded up Tasha and some water and headed into the field.

Tasha went on point almost immediately, but it turned out to be a hen. We worked the eastern end of the field, which bordered a picked soybean field, and had two more hen points. Turning south, Tasha locked up on a scent, and this time I flushed a nice rooster that I was able to bring down with a shot from my 12-gauge Beretta semi-auto with an improved choke and #6 shot.

We continued along the west side of the property, and about a quarter of the way, Tasha pointed again. I took two shots at the flushing rooster, but it flew off with a damaged leg. Despite a lengthy search, we were unable to locate it in the cattails and standing water. I switched to #5 shot after this incident.

As we worked around the cattails, we didn't move any more birds until we reached the west end and started working the grass again. We got three more hen points, but no additional roosters, before heading back to the truck.

 

It was a nice hunt that helped get Tasha back into the field, as she had been a bit lonely without her companion.

 

 

 

 

We hunted about 2 hours… Tasha was doing well at 1:45 but was tired from the extra 15 minutes.

The best public hunting areas for pheasants in Kansas

According to AI these are the best public hunting areas for pheasants in Kansas:

1. Northwest Kansas (generally highest pheasant numbers):

• Norton Wildlife Area (Norton County)
• Glen Elder Wildlife Area (Mitchell County)
• Jamestown Wildlife Area (Cloud/Republic Counties)
• Webster Wildlife Area (Rooks County)

2. Southwest Kansas:

• Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area (Barton County)
• Clark State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area (Clark County)
• Isabel Wildlife Area (Barber County)
• Texas Lake Wildlife Area (Meade County)

3. North Central Kansas:

• Ottawa State Fishing Lake (Ottawa County)
• Wilson Wildlife Area (Russell County)
• Lovewell Wildlife Area (Jewell County)

Key tips for Kansas hunting:

• Focus on Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) program lands - Kansas has one of the largest private land access programs in the country
• Check the annual upland bird forecast from KDWP
• Best hunting typically follows wheat harvest and after first frost
• Look for areas with a mix of CRP grasslands, plum thickets, and crop fields
• Northwest Kansas consistently produces the highest bird numbers
• Early season can be tough due to standing crops
• Public hunting areas near major cities (Wichita, Kansas City) get heavy pressure

Top Public Pheasant Hunting Areas In Iowa

Here are the best public areas for pheasant hunting in Iowa:

1. Northwest Iowa (typically highest pheasant numbers):

• Badger Lake Wildlife Area (Monona County)
• Elk Grove Wildlife Area (Guthrie County)
• Spring Run Complex (Dickinson County)
• Union Hills WMA (Cerro Gordo County)

2. North Central Iowa:

• Union Hills (Worth County)
• Rice Lake Wildlife Area (Worth/Winnebago Counties)
• Big Marsh Wildlife Area (Butler County) These areas combine grassland habitat with wetland edges.

3. Southwest Iowa:

• Mount Ayr Wildlife Area (Ringgold County)
• Sand Creek Wildlife Area (Decatur County)
• Forney Lake (Fremont County)

Key tips for Iowa hunting:

• Focus on IHAP (Iowa Habitat Access Program) lands - these are private lands opened to public hunting
• Look for areas combining CRP fields with food plots
• Most productive areas tend to be near the Minnesota and Missouri borders
• Check the DNR's August roadside survey for current pheasant populations by region
• Best hunting often comes after crop harvest
• Public land is more limited than Dakotas, so early season can be crowded
• Winter weather conditions greatly affect bird numbers year to year

by Tim Esse

The Top Public Hunting Areas For Pheasants In Minnesota

Here are some of the best public land areas for pheasant hunting in Minnesota:

1. Southwest Region (prime pheasant territory):

• Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area (WMA) near Madison
• Big Stone WMA near Ortonville
• Ruthton WMA in Pipestone County

2. West-Central Region:

• Ordway Prairie near Sedan
• Chippewa Prairie near Montevideo
• Habitat Corridor WMAs in Pope County

3. South-Central Minnesota:

• Swan Lake WMA in Nicollet County
• Talcot Lake WMA in Cottonwood County
• Vermillion Highlands near Rosemount

Key tips for MN pheasant hunting:

• Focus on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) with at least 100 acres
• Look for land enrolled in the Walk-In Access (WIA) program, especially in southwestern counties
• Use the DNR Recreation Compass online tool to find public hunting land
• The "Minnesota Pheasant Range" roughly follows I-94 south and west
• Best success is typically in the prairie portion of the state where there's a mix of grassland and agriculture

Many of the best areas are found in what's known as the "pheasant belt" - roughly from Worthington to Morris.

 

Top Public Hunting Areas For Pheasants In South Dakota

This is the advice one AI tool gave me.....

Some of the best public access areas include:

1. Walk-In Areas (WIAs) in central South Dakota, particularly in:

• Hughes County
• Lyman County
• Hand County These areas consistently have high pheasant populations and good habitat.

2. Waterfowl Production Areas (WPAs) in the northeastern region:

• Marshall County
• Day County These offer excellent cover and are well-maintained for wildlife.

3. Game Production Areas (GPAs):

• The Fort Pierre National Grassland (Hughes/Stanley counties)
• The Grand River National Grassland (Perkins County) Both offer vast tracts of public land with strong pheasant numbers.

Key tips:

• Focus on areas with a mix of grassland, cattails, and agricultural fields
• The James River Valley region generally has excellent pheasant habitat
• Check the annual pheasant brood survey reports from SD Game, Fish & Parks for current population trends
• Get a Public Hunting Atlas from SD GFP for detailed maps