Staples Motley area grouse?

[MNpurple]

Since the grouse have virtually disappeared in SE Minnesota, my father and I have done almost no grouse hunting. We're headed up to the Staples/Motely area for some fall fishing and was wondering if there's enough of a population around here to bring the shotguns and look for some birds between morning and evening fishing. Any info or advice would be great.

Thanks

[jgrimmz]

A friend of mine has land in between Staples and Motley just south and the grouse population has been low (his property) since the early/mid 90s. We walk the property multiple times a year between duck/goose hunting and early scouting and I have yet to see one in the 5 or so years I've been going there. His relative claims they used to get 2-3 grouse every time they walked with a shotgun.

Not sure if it's like this everywhere in the area, just my experience.

[icefisker]

I see grouse all the time on HWY 64 near the Leader area. I have hunted both Huntersville and Foothills Forests north of Motley. Not sure how far you want to drive, but there are birds in both of those areas. We have hunted near the spider lake area in foothills. Pillsbury Forest is also near there, but have not hunted there.

[icefisker]

Maybe also check Lyons Forest north of Staples. Dont know about that either, but i bet there are grouse there too.