'Tis the Season

      Seasons abound this time of year. Christmas and New Year have the population buzzing.  The migration of the seasonal residents has started in earnest.  It is a joyful and busy time for families, businesses, and residents of our area.  But for one diehard segment of the population the season has an altogether different meaning.

      That’s right-it’s BIRD SEASON. “Bird” means quail.  I hunt just about everything but, in my book, quail hunting with fine dogs eclipses all others.  A quail hunt is a time for friends to relax and enjoy the field with a favorite dog.  And, for me, the dogs make the hunt.  So let’s look at a few.

      In our area the pointing breeds lead the way.  The most popular are the Pointer (formerly called the English Pointer), German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP), Brittany, and English Setter. Vizslas and Weimaraners also have a devout following.  These breeds will “point” or “stand” their game until the hunter flushes and shoots.  Most will provide ample retrieving services when trained.

      The flushing breeds are also used but to a lesser degree.  English Springer Spaniels (ESS), English Cocker Spaniels (ECS), Labradors, and other spaniels and retrievers all do flushing work with zeal.  These breeds are more popular in the grouse coverts and pheasant fields well north of here but, when trained properly, they provide superb service on quail.  The dogs hunt within gun range, indicate the presence of game with animated body language, and flush the game for the shot.  The greatest upside to these dogs is their retrieving ability.  On the whole, they have greater retrieve drives than the pointing breeds.

      Your choice of breed is strictly a matter of personal preference.  I’ve owned, trained, and hunted with all the breeds but the six pointers in my kennel kind of tip my hand. T he important thing is that you find a dog that fits your needs.  Many want one dog that “does it all”.  It’s not an unreasonable request but the search can take a while.  You often have to try several dogs before you find the one that suits your fancy.  Believe me, it’s worth the search.  An unruly dog can quickly ruin your hunt.

      A client recently asked me what my ideal quail hunt would look like with respect to the dogs.  For my money, I’d want two Pointers casting through the field.  At heel or on the buggy I would have a good spaniel or retriever.  Once a point is established, the flushing dog would flush the covey and do the retrieving work while the pointers were released to continue hunting.  Some of you may recognize this scenario as the classic Southern plantation hunt.  It’s a great hunt.

     Quail season started in November but the heat has reduced success.  Public land seems to be the best bet for many hunters.  Several clients reported initial success until the heat returned.  The birds are there, though.  I’ve seen numerous coveys this year and several “old timers” are claiming we have a banner quail crop.  This news is promising.

      Leases are another option.  The expense is worthwhile if you have the time to hunt.  Local ranchers take pride in managing their wild game and the quail population benefits.

      Shooting preserves provide exciting hunts for those of you who don’t have a dog or like being guided.  I guide for Florida Wildlife Unlimited where your membership will provide a lengthier season and quality hunts.  Done properly, preserve hunts are thoroughly enjoyable.

      Choose your medicine and have a great season.