Upland Hunting - What Is It?

Upland bird hunting is a beloved American tradition that involves hunting birds like pheasants, quail, grouse, and partridges in their natural habitats. It typically takes place in fields, woodlands, grasslands, and prairies, focusing on shooting down flying birds.

For hunters, upland hunting is more than just a sport. It establishes a deep connection with nature, bringing a thrill through the chase, adventure, and the act of hunting itself. Below, we will explore every aspect of upland bird hunting, including its types, gear, and locations. By the end of this guide, you'll have complete clarity on the subject.

Famous Birds for Upland Hunting

Here are some of the most popular birds for upland hunting in the US:

Grouse

Grouse is often referred to as the "king of bird games." Famous for its unique flight style and elusive nature, it presents a challenge for hunters in upland hunting, as its habitat perfectly suits the bird.
In upland hunting, the most famous grouse species include the sharp-tailed grouse, ruffed grouse, dusky grouse, and greater sage grouse.

Pheasants

Pheasants add excitement to hunting with fast-paced shooting and long dog chases. They also bring quality taste and satisfaction to the table at the end of the hunt.
In the US, the Ring-necked pheasant is the most common species hunted in upland adventures.

Quail

Quail is among the most cherished birds in upland hunting. Its small size and fast pace make it challenging for hunters, but the experience is joyful and rewarding.
California quail, scaled quail, bobwhite, and mountain quail are the most popular species during upland hunts. Quail are typically found in brushy areas.

Partridges

With their fast, low, and straight flights, partridges pose a challenge for hunters. Hunting these birds is a blend of culture, sport, challenge, and reward. Accurate shooting, skilled hunting dogs, and long chases are essential for success.
Chukar and Hungarian partridge are the most common species found in top upland hunting spots.

Other Famous Birds

Other birds commonly hunted in upland areas include woodcock, landfowl, and ptarmigans.

Top Locations for Upland Hunting

Montana

Montana is a dream destination for wild bird hunting, offering beautiful surroundings, a wide range of bird species, and vast prairies. The acres of public land and the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains make it an ideal hunting experience.

Texas

Texas is famous for quail hunting, especially bobwhite quail. In addition, it offers opportunities to hunt a diverse range of birds, including pheasants, chukars, and Hungarian partridges.

South Dakota

South Dakota is arguably the best upland hunting state in the country. It is home to an abundance of wild pheasants, supported by wildlife-friendly practices and vast grasslands. This makes it a paradise for upland hunters.
Often referred to as the pheasant capital, South Dakota provides a perfect habitat for upland birds, with its wheat, corn, and native grasslands.

North Dakota

North Dakota is a hidden gem for upland hunters, especially those looking for wild bird hunting and vast areas to explore. With less commercialization, the state offers acres of open fields for hunting.
It is also home to a variety of birds, including grouse, pheasants, and partridges.

Arizona

Arizona is better known for its deserts and the Grand Canyon, but it also offers excellent upland hunting. The state is particularly famous for hunting quail, along with grouse, chukar, and even wild turkey.
Though Arizona doesn’t have vast prairies like the Dakotas, its rugged beauty provides a unique and exciting hunting experience. Hunting in rocky terrain, cactus deserts, and rugged mountains challenges both hunters’ skills and stamina.

Nebraska

Nebraska is well-known for its abundant public access, healthy bird populations, and fewer crowds. With over 1.2 million acres of public land, Nebraska is home to a variety of birds, including pheasants, quail, grouse, and partridges.
The rolling sand hills and crop-filled plains make Nebraska a perfect destination for mid-western upland hunting adventures.

Minnesota

Vast forests, prairies, and wetlands make Minnesota a must-visit for upland hunters. While it is primarily known for waterfowl hunting, Minnesota also offers great upland hunting opportunities.
Hunters can find woodcock, sharp-tailed grouse, and pheasants in Minnesota.

Best Dogs for Upland Hunting

German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile and athletic breed, known for its intelligence and high energy. It is a top choice for upland hunting, known for its pointing ability, versatility, and precision.

English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a top contender for upland hunting due to its ability to flush and retrieve game birds. It is a high-energy breed that thrives in the field and works tirelessly before its prey.

Brittany Spaniel

This lightweight, fast, and energetic breed is known for its efficiency in upland hunting. The Brittany Spaniel excels in various environments and is well-regarded for its drive and energy in the field.

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular hunting dogs worldwide. Its scent-tracking ability, high stamina, and natural hunting instincts make it an excellent companion for upland hunting. Labs are adept at locating, flushing, and retrieving birds, often undamaged due to their soft teeth.

English Cocker Spaniel

Although small in size, the English Cocker Spaniel is a fearless, energetic, and relentless hunter, especially in rough upland terrains. Their role is often to drive birds into the air, allowing hunters to take a shot. They also excel in chasing down birds after they are shot.

Best Gear for Upland Hunting

The best gear for upland hunting includes the following items:

Medical Kit

A first aid kit is essential for any upland hunting adventure. Hunting can lead to minor or major injuries, and a well-stocked first aid kit can help in such situations.

Shirts for Upland Hunting

Upland hunting requires a particular type of clothing. While trekking through rugged terrain, your clothing should ensure durability, visibility, reliability, and relaxation. Shirts for such adventures should be comfortable during long hours, regardless of whether it's cold or warm.

Embroidered Hunting Hat for Protection

Your headgear is as essential as the rest of your outfit. A perfect hat for hunting should provide comfort, shield from the sun, and keep the vision clear during your trekking adventure.

Pants for Versatile Hunting

Solid pants make your hunting experience safe and mobile. Upland hunting can involve risks like tall grass, bushes, and thorns, making long pants essential for protection. These pants are versatile for a range of environments.

Best Guns for Upland Hunting

Browning Grand Lightning

The Browning Citori Grand Lightning is a highly regarded shotgun, known for its style and performance. Its over/under configuration is ideal for upland hunting, providing two barrels for follow-up shots or birds in pairs.

Weatherby Orion

The Weatherby Orion is a lightweight over/under shotgun, highly respected for its performance, agility, and affordability. Weighing around 7 pounds, it provides a smooth hunting experience.

Benelli M2

The Benelli M2 is an inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun, known for its smooth cycling action, reliability, and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for upland hunting.

Remington 870

The Remington 870 is famous for its pump action, rugged design, and smooth cycling. It is a reliable and cost-effective weapon for upland adventures.

Outriders role in Upland Hunting

An outrider is an individual responsible for managing multiple duties in the hunting to maintain the overall flow of the hunting adventure. They operate on horseback, ATVs, and UTVs depending on the terrain and size of the hunting area.

Dog Manager

Outriders are responsible for controlling hunting dogs. Hunting Dogs sometimes chased the hunt and went far away from the hunting area. So the outrider's job there is to retrieve and redirect them, ensuring they remain close to the hunters. 

 Bird Flusher

Upland game birds usually escape to the far ends of the hunting zone. Outriders act as “pushers” to keep birds within the hunting perimeter to offer more opportunities to the hunters.

Safety Overseer

Outriders also ensure the safety of hunters and dogs. They keep an eye on the whole hunting field ensuring no one enters unsafe areas i.e. deep woods, water hazards, and other restricted zones.

Field Coordinator

Outrider's role expands to that of coordinator in large-scale hunts, which involve multiple hunters and dogs. They schedule the hunting activity, mark the hunting zone and boundaries, and assist with hunt flow and communication.

Best Vehicles for Upland Hunting

UTVs and ATVs are the best choices for upland hunting, depending on the number of people involved. Here are some of our recommendations for vehicles suitable for upland hunting:

• Ford F150

• Jeep Cherokee

• Subaru Wagon

• Toyota 4Runner

Best Climate for Upland Hunting

The cool climate of autumn generally favors upland bird hunting. A mild breeze helps mask hunters’ movements and scents, making it an ideal environment for the pursuit.

How Upland Hunting Differs from Dove Hunting

While both upland and dove hunting involve game birds, they differ in tactics, terrain, and hunting style.

That’s a wrap on our guide to upland hunting! We hope this article has answered all your questions, covering everything from the birds and top locations to the gear, guns, and dogs you’ll need. With this knowledge in hand, you're ready to take on your next hunt. Happy hunting, and may your adventures be unforgettable!