To those of you that have hunted late season birds, you know how much of a challenge it can be. Not only is the weather typically not in your favor but the birds have been educated in what your intentions are. As the corn is harvested and the snow starts to fly, most of a pheasants cover is lost. This can work for you or against you, depending on how you play your cards. First start by finding dense cover. Your best bet is heavy cat tails and scrub brush thickets. Read the wind, typically pheasants will fly with it. Post up a guy or two on the edges to contain birds spilling out the sides. Walk slow, let your dog work. I have witnessed a number of times dogs actually picking denned up birds out of their holes.
Another challenge you may face is birds flushing before you even step foot into the field. The only thing I can tell you from my experiences is be quiet. Park a few hundred yards down from your field and keep from yelling back at your buddy to grab more shells. Remember, these birds are witnesses of past hunts. They know what the routine is. Make sure you have your posters set before you enter the field.
This is my favorite time of the year to hunt. The hunter numbers are down and the number of birds in the CRP fields and fence rows are up. If you have never tried hunting after November, take it from me. GET OUT THERE! I see more birds in one weekend hunting in December than all of October combined. Get your buddies together and get after some late season roosters! Best of luck hunting!
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