Hunters get ready: The general-season pheasant and quail hunts are set to open on November 1 across the state of Utah. According to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Heather Talley, Upland Game Coordinator, announced that pen-reared pheasants will be periodically released on various wildlife management areas and Walk-in Access properties. "We release pen-reared pheasants each week during the general-season hunt to provide additional opportunities for hunters," Talley stated, as per the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. She also advised hunters to be ready to hike a good distance from parking areas to increase their chances of successful hunting.
The season for ring-necked pheasants runs until December 7, with different release sites indicated on the DWR website for youth, general-season, and those used during both hunts. Pheasant numbers have generally declined this year due to dry conditions, but the DWR provides detailed information on where hunters can expect to find wild populations. It's critical, though, for hunters to always strictly follow safe hunting practices, especially around the release times. "We have experienced unsafe conditions while releasing pheasants over the years, including individuals shooting near our biologists as they release birds," Talley told the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. A non-toxic shot is required in several WMAs, and the DWR website can help hunters find locations and obtain the necessary authorization.
Focusing on quail, the general quail hunting season also starts on November 1 and extends to December 31. Hunters concerned about bird populations should note that in certain areas of Utah, quail numbers are on the decline. Meanwhile, young and less experienced hunters can look forward to the designated youth hunts happening from October 25-30 for pheasants and October 25-27 for quail, as detailed by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. These events aim to give younger enthusiasts a chance to engage with the sport under more controlled conditions and are accompanied by free registration events across the state listed on Eventbrite.
