Prepare for your Upland Hunt
Hunting quail of any species in Arizona is amazing, but not easy. You should be prepared to hike several miles in fairly rugged terrain. It is very dry here most of the year and you would be well served to hydrate before and during the hunt. The terrain will vary based on your chosen hunt, but will range from desert to mountain and from 2500 to 7000 feet of elevation. Some steep Mearns country will make you think you are hunting chukar. Habitat will range from low grass and prickly pear cactus, (among other nasty plants that like to defend themselves with fervor) to the steep scrub oak woodlands at higher elevations.
For Utah Grouse, these birds are woodland dwellers at high elevation 7000-10000 feet. Two species of forest grouse — dusky and ruffed — live in Utah. The ruffed grouse are most commonly found along the Wasatch Plateau and in the Uinta Mountains in groves of aspen trees. Aspens often have shrubs with berries and close water sources, both of which attract ruffed grouse.
Dusky grouse live in higher-elevation areas than the ruffed grouse, and are typically found in Cache County, along the Wasatch Plateau, on Cedar Mountain and in the Pine Valley area. Dusky grouse can often be located in the area of a mountainside where the aspen trees transition into conifer forests. I recommend getting into the area a day early to walk around and aclimate. Altitude sickness can occur above 6500 feet.
The hunts will start around daylight and end by well when you decide to call it, but generally late afternoon for full days. You will need to arrange your own lodging. We do make lodging recommendations, but it is completely up to you. If hunting Utah, we will make joint lodging reservations for you and your guide.
Your dog(s) are welcome, just let us know in advance so we can accommodate the transport and if you wish them to replace or compliment our pups. We can’t guarantee the work of your dog. We do ask that you refrain from bringing yours along if it has any aggression issues or trouble working with others. Also be aware that we take no responsibility for your pup. If your dog has not been exposed to the desert, it is probably not in your best interest to bring them along. There are lots of cacti, briars, rattlesnakes, and skunks to contend with. If your pup isn’t snake broke or snake savvy, I wouldn’t bring them along. Also keep in mind the extra water you will need to carry. I carry two water bladders to accommodate myself and two dogs.
In order for you to have a good experience, we recommend you prepare in advance. capable of walking at least 5-6 miles in varied terrain. If you have a disability that limits your mobility, we can accommodate, but need to know in advance to better select the hunt areas to use. See the “Are you Ready” tab below for minimum conditioning recommendations.