Chehalis River Pheasant Release Site

[Backstrap]

I'm looking for intel on the Chehalis River pheasant release site near Montesano. I scouted it last weekend but never saw any signs designating the release site. I did see "Feel Free to Hunt" land posted, but no pheasant release signs. The area shown on the WDFW map, up next to the river, appears to all be private land. I'd like to get the fact straight, and avoid any difficulties. Thanks in advance for any insight. PM's welcomed...

[dreamunelk]

Try Go Hunt.  The site is will marked.  Did you find the parking area?

[Backstrap]

Try Go Hunt.  The site is will marked.  Did you find the parking area?

No, I don't think I ever found the parking area really. I did fin a couple wide spots on the road, where people access the "feel free to hunt" areas, but I don't think thats the release area. I will try the Go Hunt system. Thank you.

[Bullkllr]

It's been awhile since I was down there, but if you went to the map here http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01645/wdfw01645.pdf (page 23) I think it is pretty accurate. It is private land, used by WDFW agreement. You may have found the right spot.

Some of the smaller release sites seem to be pretty sketchy on releases as the season goes on, and that may be the case with that one 

[Backstrap]

Looking at Go Hunt, i can see I was about 2 -3 fields away from the pheasant release site. I should be able to find it now. Anyone know the local protocol at this site? I dont want to ruffle any feathers... Thanks all.

[Birdguy]

It is probably like all the other release sites-- This is one way---show up, line up on the starting line, whistle or gun shot at 0800 to start the show, run through the field after your dog or someone elses shoot anything that flies, claim them all as yours get your two and get out  .

I have found that if you show up 0730ish there will be a couple of "regulars" in the parking lot perhaps part of the release crew if they are letting go in the AM. These guys are generally drinking coffee, enjoying the morning, a subtle walk over to them with an introduction when noticed is a good ice breaker. During the small talk if you mention that it is your first time at the site and you would appreciate any advice on how the normal crowd works  usually gets you the info you seek. It may also let you know how and when you want to go out. If you have no dog I say go with the rush, just watch for folks from all sides and who maybe on the other side of the bird you are looking to shoot. If you have a dog that can hunt I say hold back and head out and hour or so later let all the runners go through and your can follow behind them and "hunt". Good luck.