Grouse Hunting

[poutpro]

Are there any areas around FF to shoot some grouse? I have access to some decent sized wooded areas, but have no idea if there are birds in there or what to look for to find them if they are in there. Any information would be great. Thanks.

[ddsbyday]

Don't know the area at all. If there are any birds there they will be on logging trails. Look for areas that have been logged off with in the last couple of years. Find new aspen growing with some clover on the trail and you have a chance. Again I am not familiar with the area. Where I hunt the cycle is low. Good areas still hold birds but its a lot of work. If you are just starting out go where the bird count is good. You may have to travel a little. When you see and miss the first one you will be hooked. You will then flush a woodcock and say what the heck was that?

[woodview]

And when you shoot your first woodcock and see that goofy little buggar you're really gonna wonder what the heck is that.

[captkev]

I'd also work the edges of swamps and creeks, look for alders and high bush cranberrys, you'll find most of your birds working the edge that is faceing the sun, stay away from the shaded areas early in the A.M. most of the birds will start suning and feeding or getting grit at first light. You will find birds on trails, but for the most part I think they are just passing threw to get to the feeding grounds, or getting grit. Just my .02 Clover is a favorite of the Ruff, but for the most part 90% of the birds I've cleaned this year have had hazzle catkins in their crop.

[poutpro]

Fergus Falls in in West Central MN.

[FOOT]

We've had good luck getting permission and grouse around the Battle Lake area. We're getting permission about 50% of the time so don't let a NO get you down.

We're targeting the smaller wooded areas next to water and/or a small field. Seeing lots of deer sign as well.