Too late/ weather too bad for a new hunter and dog?

[surfj9009]

Hey guys I am wondering, I was planning on trying to do some pheasant or quail hunting on the eastside this year but I have never been out hunting birds before. Is it too late in the year for a successful hunt for a new guy who lives in Spokane and is looking for a place he can get to and home in the same day?

We have had a ton of snow and being a rookie, I don't know if I will have any luck but I want to try. I was planning on starting out a few weeks ago, but I got called out of town for work and just got home today.

Please advise and thanks for your help. I'm dying to get out and find some birds, but I have this terrible looming feeling that it's to late this year to find a spot.

[halflife65]

No, by all means, go.  Even if your hunt turns into a scouting trip for next year.

Remaining wild birds will generally be pretty skittish but the snow can be to your advantage (other than they aren't walking around much and leaving scent.)  Head towards the thick stuff, cat tails, etc. at this time of year.

You can go all day without seeing any and then suddenly get your limit in 15 minutes in weather like this...or you could just go all day without seeing any...Either way, enjoy the time with your dog.  It really isn't all that cold, anyway.

[surfj9009]

Thanks for the reply. So I know on go hunt you can find the feel free to hunt lands, but I don't know how to actually find them. Do I just put the area in the GPS, jump in the truck and look for posted signs? Or does this require a lot of door knocking?

[T-Bone]

Thanks for the reply. So I know on go hunt you can find the feel free to hunt lands, but I don't know how to actually find them. Do I just put the area in the GPS, jump in the truck and look for posted signs? Or does this require a lot of door knocking?

The "Feel Free To Hunt" lands are generally posted with "Feel Free To Hunt" signs. Otherwise, you need to do some knocking on doors.

I live in the North Palouse, South of Spokane Valley and the snow totals are at least one third more than Spokane. I tried hunting yesterday for a couple hours and even the quail are spooky. Fighting knee-deep+ snow is NO FUN and very tiring for man and dog. My Springer was covered in ice balls after the hunt.

Good luck and use common sense to stay safe.

Tom

[Rhinoron247]

The season is only getting started,  the colder it gets the better.  If you have good dogs and aren't afraid to get out there in it the next couple weeks can be the best.   The firing center outside of yakima is a sure bet for chucker and quail late in the season.  Make sure and be pre-pared for anything if you head out there.  It can be a long day if you get stuck or stranded. 

[Wacenturion]

Another bonus.....fewer hunters in the field.  As birds become smarter and more apt to not hold, coupled with crappy weather........................many stay home.  That is a plus for you.  Some of the best hunting is late, especially chukar, huns and quail.