Introduction For Upland Rookies
Howdy, fellow upland hunting rookies! If you’re about to dive into the exhilarating world of chasing pheasants through the wilds, then consider this your official initiation. I may only have a few years under my belt, but let me tell you, I’ve learned some valuable lessons along the way. So, grab a coffee or beverage of choice, pull up a stump, and let’s talk about the gear you need in your kit for some pheasant-poppin’ adventures.
Firearms/Ammunition :
Shotgun: First and foremost, let’s talk about the boomstick. I prefer a good ol’ 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotgun that will do the trick. But of course, use the shotgun that you feel the most comfortable and can carry for hours at a time. It can be your grand dad’s old pump hand me down or a state of the art firearm that I can only dream of holding one day. Make sure it’s comfortable to shoulder, and practice your aim until you can hit the broad side of a barn. And speaking of safety, don’t forget to follow all local, state, and federal laws associated with pheasant hunting. You wouldn’t want to end up in a sticky situation.
Ammunition: Now that you’ve got your trusty shotgun, you’ll need some ammo to load it up. When it comes to pheasants, I like to use #5 or #6 shot size. Make sure to check the regulations for any specific requirements or restrictions on ammunition in your area. Is it a lead free area?
Clothes & Footwear :
Blaze Orange: Safety isn’t just a suggestion; it’s the law. In Minnesota, you’ve got to be visible to other hunters, so deck yourself out in some blaze orange. A vest, hat, and maybe even some orange socks will do the trick. I have a GameHide Vest for those warm days and a Gamehide Fenceline Wind Blocking Upland Field Pheasant Jacket With Game Bag when it cools down as we get into winter. You’ll look like a traffic cone, but hey, better safe than sorry, right?
Quality Footwear: Pheasants don’t hang out on nicely manicured lawns; they prefer rough terrain. Invest in a pair of boots that can take a beating. Waterproof and insulated boots are a good choice for Minnesota’s often wet and chilly hunting season. Totally whatever works for you, you don’t need to break the bank. I love and have a pair of Danner Hunting Boots and Muck Boots.
Hunting Pants: A good pair of hunting pants is worth its weight in gold. They should be durable, weather-resistant, and comfortable enough for long hikes. Look for options with reinforced knees and seat areas, as you’ll likely be kneeling and sitting on rough ground. Something that will not catch every sticker and burl, or you may be covered by the end of your hike. I wear the GameHide Upland Hunting Pants and they sure do keep the stickers and burls from getting stuck.
Game Bag: If you don’t have one integrated into your vest or jacket you may want one of these for yourself. You’ve got your shotgun, and hopefully, your dog is doing its job. Now, you need something to haul your prize. A game bag is essential for carrying your pheasants. Make sure it’s durable, comfortable to wear, and easy to clean. After all, this is where the feathers and blood end up.
Bird Dog :
Hunting Dog: Now, this is where the fun begins. It changed my success rate significantly. If you want to up your game in Upland Game or Pheasant hunting, consider getting yourself a trusty hunting dog. I’ve got a four-legged friend named Denver who’s an absolute champ at flushing out those wily pheasants. He’s not a purebred by any means, only a hunting buddy and also a loyal family companion that loves it as much as I do. Remember, though, you’ve got to follow the rules about hunting with dogs in your area for upland game, so make sure your pup is trained and ready to go. You can hire someone for the training or work on it yourself. Lots of options, but one thing they must be accustomed to is the sound of a gunshot. Also, I like to use the SportDog Sporthunter 1225X eCollar for last 2 years and don’t have any complaints. It helps me keep track of Denver and pulls him away from things that grab his attention. I recently bought the Dogtra 2700 T&B, as I like my dog to get out in front of me a bit more. It has a greater range and it allows me to know where he is with a beeper. I hope to do more of a review later this season.
Gear :
GPS or Smartphone: In the vast fields of Minnesota, it’s easy to get turned around. A GPS device or a smartphone with GPS capabilities can help you navigate and mark your spots. I like to use OnX Hunt (game changer for me when I started going on my own without friends who knew a “spot”). Just make sure to pack an extra battery or a power bank, especially in the Minnesota winter. Getting lost with a dead phone isn’t anyone’s idea of fun.
First Aid Kit: Accidents happen, and you’ll want to be prepared. A basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, even a blood clotting kit and any necessary medications can be a lifesaver. You will want something simple, but usable for you, your buddy or your dog. I can’t stress enough how important it is to be safe out there.
Snacks and Water: Hunting can be hard work, and you’ll need some sustenance to keep you going. Pack snacks like jerky, trail mix, and energy bars. And don’t forget a trusty water bottle or CamelBak to stay hydrated. I wear mine under my jacket or vest comfortably.
Bug Spray: Minnesota has its fair share of mosquitoes and ticks, especially in the fall months. Bug spray is your defense against those pesky critters. I feel like I am an early warning for my friends and family, mosquitos love me.
Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars can help you spot those elusive pheasants from a distance. It’s like having a pair of eagle eyes. I love my Vortex Diamondback HD 8×42 Binoculars.
Multi-Tool or Knife: A multi-tool or a good hunting knife is indispensable. You never know when you’ll need to field dress a bird or fix a gear issue in the middle of nowhere. I love my Leatherman and Benchmade Knife. One buddy had his 12ga pump jam in the field and we had to use my multi-tool to pull out and reset a jammed spring. Very Handy!
Patience & Respect :
Lastly, but most importantly, pack your patience and respect for the land, the wildlife, and your fellow hunters. Upland hunting is not just about bagging birds; it’s about appreciating the outdoors, respecting the environment, and bonding with your fellow hunters.
So, there you have it, my fellow rookies – your essential gear for a pheasant hunting adventure. But remember, gear alone won’t make you a pro. It’s all about the journey, the camaraderie, and the thrill of the hunt. So, gear up, be safe, know the rules, respect the land, and make some unforgettable memories out there in the wilds. And hey, if you see me and Denver out there, don’t be shy; stop by and say howdy! Happy hunting, folks!
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