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Opening day is more than a hunt. It is a tradition that connects generations, communities, and the bird dogs that make it unforgettable.

South Dakota's pheasant opener brings hunters together for one of upland bird hunting's most celebrated traditions. In Wessington Springs, Bob St.Pierre joins longtime Pheasants Forever volunteer Darwin Weeldreyer for an opening morning block party that puts small-town hospitality, conservation, and hunting culture on full display.

South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks senior pheasant biologist Alex Solem shares his outlook for the season, explaining how mild winters, nesting conditions, habitat management, CRP lands, and crop harvest influence pheasant populations and hunting success. He also breaks down where to find birds throughout the day, why weedy cover can be productive early in the season, and why December and January hunts deserve a spot on every upland hunter's calendar. For non-resident hunters planning a trip, his advice offers practical guidance on timing a South Dakota pheasant hunt.

Wessington Springs Mayor Ryan Knipfer explains the importance of pheasant hunting to both the economy and the community. Then veterinarian Dr. Casey Duxbury turns the conversation to bird dog health, covering heat stress, hydration, barbed-wire injuries, grass seed awns, eye emergencies, and the preventive care hunters should handle before traveling. Her field-tested advice helps hunters recognize trouble early and keep their dogs working safely.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Thanks to Chief Upland, Irish Setter Boots, Purina Pro Plan, and RuffLand Performance Kennels for supporting our Opening Day – South Dakota video that will come out in autumn of 2027.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Award-winning wild game cook and food author Hank Shaw returns to On the Wing for an insider’s look at making the most of every bird, mushroom, and wild ingredient the outdoors provides. From pheasant and quail to ruffed grouse, woodcock, and wild turkey, Shaw shares practical cooking techniques that help hunters bring more flavor to the table without wasting a thing.

Learn when to smoke upland birds, why sous vide can ruin tender cuts when used incorrectly, and how to keep lean pheasant and turkey breasts juicy. Shaw breaks down his favorite methods for grilling doves and quail, preparing pheasant thighs, making wild game sausage, and creating restaurant-worthy meals with simple ingredients. He also explains why shorter sous vide cooking times matter, when butter poaching makes sense, and how to turn a smoked pheasant carcass into an exceptional soup base.

The conversation goes beyond the kitchen, exploring wild mushroom foraging, the best pairings for different upland birds, and the edible plants hiding in native prairie habitat. Discover why porcini, chanterelles, morels, and other wild mushrooms deserve a place alongside your harvest, plus how ingredients like rose hips can bring unexpected flavor to sharp-tailed grouse.

Whether you're chasing roosters across the prairie, hunting ruffs in the grouse woods, or looking to become a better wild game cook, Shaw offers techniques and inspiration to make every harvest count.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Check out Hank Shaw’s full collection of books.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

The right weather conditions, quality habitat and hunting tactics can turn tough pheasants into more shooting opportunities.

Pheasant hunting is never supposed to be easy. That challenge is what keeps hunters coming back. But the right tactics can tip the odds in your favor. Pheasants Forever Journal Editor Tom “Carp” Carpenter breaks down eight pheasant hunting equalizers that can help you find more birds and turn close calls into more roostery sags in your gamebag.

Wind and moisture can dramatically change how pheasants behave and how well your bird dog works scent. Learn why 15 to 20 mph winds can be ideal, how wet conditions affect scent, and why the second day after rain may offer some of the best hunting of the season.

The conversation also digs into habitat strategy, including standing corn, freshly harvested fields, diverse pollinator cover, cattails, and the overlooked pockets that can hold birds when traditional pheasant habitat comes up empty.

You'll also hear why the “forenoon,” as Carp fashions late morning, can be a prime time to hunt; how December snow and cold concentrate pheasants; and why stealth may be the most important pheasant hunting equalizer of all.

Finally, Carpenter makes the case for putting miles on your boots and your bird dog. Whether you're chasing roosters with a pointing dog or flushing dog, persistence, observation and adapting to the conditions can be the ultimate equalizers.

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Show notes

• Read PFJ Editor Tom Carpenter’s full Pheasant Hunting Equalizers story.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Where should you chase quail in 2026? Quail Forever Journal editor Ryan Sparks joins On the Wing to break down QF’s 2026 Quail Hunting Forecast species by species, revealing where habitat, rainfall, and bird numbers are lining up for a productive season.

The conversation starts with bobwhite quail, including standout opportunities in Texas, Nebraska, Colorado, Georgia, Mississippi, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Sparks explains why hunters should look beyond state lines and focus on interconnected habitat, precipitation, winter survival, and the positive benefits of prescribed fire.

From there, the forecast moves to mountain quail in Washington, Oregon, and California, valley quail in California, Montezuma quail in Arizona and New Mexico, and Gambel's and scaled quail across the desert Southwest.

You'll also get practical quail hunting tips for finding birds when conditions are tough, from identifying water sources and recent burns to locating productive habitat and asking landowners for access. Sparks shares a simple scouting strategy that can turn one permission request into thousands of acres of hunting ground.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Read QF’s full 2026 state-by-state Quail Hunting Forecast presented by Duck Camp.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Colton Patterson built Broken Bow around the music, artwork, traditions, and values he inherited from his grandfather. At just 19, his work has grown into a social media following with more than one million people, along with collaborations with artists like the Turnpike Troubadours.

That same appreciation for Americana and the outdoors made Patterson a natural fit to illustrate Wendell Berry's Mike, a story about a bird dog, quail hunting, family, memory, and the connection between people and the land. Quail Forever Journal editor Ryan Sparks explains why Berry's writing has remained so influential to him, and how the story's deeper themes connect directly to conservation and the hunting tradition.

The conversation explores Patterson's creative process, his love of old country and bluegrass music, the influence of his grandparents, and why his deliberately timeless artwork resonates in a digital world. The discussion also digs into the idea of "membership," Berry's concept that we don't simply occupy a place but belong to a community of people, animals, land, traditions, and generations.

For anyone who loves bird dogs, quail hunting, conservation, or the culture surrounding the outdoors, this is a conversation about much more than pulling the trigger. It's about why we return to the field and what we carry home with us.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Read Wendell Berry’s story Mike as it appeared in Quail Forever Journal with Broken Bow’s illustrations.
• Check out Colton Patterson’s artwork at Broken Bow.
• Learn more about Wendell Berry and his writing in this terrific article from The New York Times following his passing in August.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Pheasants have a knack for surviving whatever the prairie throws at them, and this year's forecast offers plenty of reasons to lace up the boots. From Montana and the Dakotas to Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, and Minnesota, the outlook varies by region, but the bigger story is encouraging: quality upland habitat produces birds.

The crew breaks down the state-by-state pheasant hunting forecast, highlighting where hunters can expect the best opportunities and where conditions may require a little more work. Montana and North Dakota offer classic mixed-bag potential for pheasants, sharp-tailed grouse, and Hungarian partridge, while South Dakota continues to stand out for both bird numbers and access. Nebraska and Kansas offer opportunities for hunters interested in adding bobwhite quail to their mixed bag, and Minnesota's strong hatch could make it an overlooked destination for public land pheasant hunting.

Beyond the forecast, the conversation digs into what actually matters once you hit the field. Expect practical pheasant hunting tips on finding birds in dry conditions, hunting cattails and other overlooked cover early in the season, using OnX to mark productive ground, and preparing bird dogs for changing temperatures.

Most importantly, the discussion puts the season in perspective: success isn't always measured by limits. It's about good dogs, wild places, friends, family, habitat, and making the most of the days you have.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Read the full 2026 state-by-state Pheasant Hunting Forecast presented by Garmin.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Public land doesn’t have to start with thousands of acres. Sometimes it starts with one property, one partnership, and one group of volunteers willing to keep building.

PF & QF’s Casey Sill joins On the Wing to talk about “Brick by Brick,” a new film documenting the impact Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s Build a Wildlife Area program has had on communities across southern Minnesota and northern Iowa. The conversation explores how permanently protected habitat can create more than pheasant hunting opportunities. It can improve water quality, strengthen local communities, support rural economies, and connect fragmented parcels into larger, more useful public land complexes for a wide array of wildlife species.

Sill breaks down his first upland hunting experience in Iowa, the dramatic habitat transformation around the Spirit Lake area, and why Build a Wildlife properties demonstrate the value of building public access one parcel at a time.

For hunters who grew up without public access, Sill explains how discovering public land fundamentally changed the way he spends time outdoors and shaped where he ultimately chose to build a life.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• This year’s Build a Wildlife Area week is being sponsored by Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund in partnership with our friends at The Flush. Learn more about PF & QF’s Build a Wildlife Area program.
• Check out PF & QF’s newest film, Brick by Brick presented by Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, Chief Upland, and SportDOG Brand.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Country music singer Drake White joins On the Wing for a candid conversation about music, hunting, bird dogs, and the long road back from a devastating stroke. White grew up hunting and fishing in Alabama, where quail, deer, rivers, dogs, and the outdoors shaped how he understood the world and eventually influenced his music.

At the height of his career, White suffered a hemorrhagic stroke onstage in Roanoke after doctors discovered an arteriovenous malformation in his brain. The aftermath left him paralyzed on his left side and facing a recovery that would fundamentally change his life. Then a trail camera captured a giant Tennessee whitetail buck behind his house.

That deer became a fixation, and hunting became a source of purpose during one of the darkest periods of his recovery. White shares how pursuing that deer helped reignite his competitive spirit, engage his brain, and reconnect him with the outdoors. He also discusses the making of a documentary detailing the role of hunting in his recovery, his relationship with fellow country music artist Riley Green, duck hunting, dove hunting, bird dogs, and why he believes the hunt can be about far more than what ends up in your vest.

The conversation is ultimately about resilience, purpose, faith, and finding a reason to keep moving when everything changes.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Watch “Ladder to the Sky: A Hunt’s the Healing Story” by Realtree and Drake White.
• Listen to Drake White and catch him on tour at www.DrakeWhite.com.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

The word “gamey” gets thrown around whenever wild game tastes different from what we know. But what does the word “gamey” actually mean? Quail Forever Journal editor Ryan Sparks takes a hard look at the word and makes the case that it does more harm than good.

Wild game carries the imprint of where and how an animal lived. Age, diet, physical activity, season, stress, habitat, and processing can all influence flavor, meaning a bobwhite quail from one landscape can taste remarkably different from a scaled quail, pheasant, duck, deer, or other wild animal harvested somewhere else. Calling all of it “gamey” flattens those differences into one vague label.

Sparks also explores why wild game cooking doesn't need to be complicated. From simply grilled quail to the broader tradition of eating animals harvested in the field, the goal isn't to disguise wild flavor. It's to understand and appreciate it.

For hunters, anglers, and anyone who puts wild food on the table, there's a bigger lesson here: the flavor of wild game is part of the hunting experience. Learning to cook it well, recognize its differences, and respect what the animal provides can make the connection between field and table even stronger.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• The winner of the Pheasants Forever + Irish Setter Wingshooters is announced.

A bird dog endures shipwrecks, captivity, starvation and war to become a legendary symbol of courage.

Judy of Sussex was no ordinary bird dog. Born in Shanghai in 1936, the liver-and-white pointer became the mascot of a British gunboat before serving alongside its crew through some of the darkest years of World War II.

After surviving the sinking of two ships, Judy endured years of captivity alongside British POWs in Japanese prison camps. She found fresh water for stranded sailors, hunted game, survived a crocodile attack, helped prisoners maintain morale and repeatedly escaped attempts to kill her.

Her story offers a remarkable look at the bond between working dogs and the people who depend on them, while showing just how much courage and instinct a bird dog can possess under unimaginable conditions. Judy eventually received the Dickin Medal, Britain's highest military honor for animals, and remains the only dog officially registered as a prisoner of war.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Sound effects and sound design for "Judy" provided by:

• Editing and sound design by Trout Stream Studios
• [BG] Combat.wav by Audionautics -- https://freesound.org/s/136260/ -- License: Creative Commons 0
• Warzone by LogicMoon -- https://freesound.org/s/715831/ -- License: Attribution 4.0
• WAR_MACHINEGUN_SHOOTING_005.wav by deleted_user_3544904 -- https://freesound.org/s/234619/ -- License: Attribution 3.0
• War sounds by Dragout -- https://freesound.org/s/150305/ -- License: Creative Commons 0
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• yucatan jungle.mp3 by folkart films -- https://freesound.org/s/122767/ -- License: Attribution 3.0
• R28-41-Hammer Metal Stakes or Nails.wav by craigsmith -- https://freesound.org/s/487086/ -- License: Creative Commons 0
• G54-30-Waves Heard from Ship's Hold.wav by craigsmith -- https://freesound.org/s/438849/ -- License: Creative Commons 0
• Hopeful Cinematic Emotional Orchestra Background Music by EvanBoyerman -- https://freesound.org/s/753968/ -- License: Attribution 4.0
• Emotional Uplifting Soundtrack - For Her by MusicByMisterbates -- https://freesound.org/s/596510/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Wild quail, rugged country, and a six-species pursuit turned one couple’s hunts into lifelong adventures.

Jamie and Jesse Durham never set out to become dedicated quail hunters. Their journey started with a question on a first date and grew into a goal to hunt all six species of quail in the United States. Along the way, they discovered what makes chasing wild birds so addictive: learning habitat, following good dogs, exploring unfamiliar country, and earning every bird.

The Durhams share lessons from hunting bobwhite quail on Florida public land, including how prescribed fire, longleaf pine, palmetto cover, and timing can shape a successful hunt. They also recount trips across the West for Gambel’s, Mearns’, scaled, valley, and mountain quail, from the rugged terrain of New Mexico and Texas to Hells Canyon.

Their story offers plenty for upland hunters to take away, from choosing quail habitat and working young bird dogs to handling the unique challenges of Florida hunting, including heat, snakes, alligators, and post-hurricane conditions. Most importantly, their experience shows how hunting can become something shared, from discovering new landscapes together to preparing wild quail for the table and eventually introducing the next generation to the field.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

What actually happens inside a bird dog’s brain when it locks onto a pheasant, quail, or grouse?

Dr. Annie Valuska, a Purina pet behaviorist with more than 20 years of experience in animal behavior research, helps unpack the science behind the dogs we depend on in the field.

The conversation explores how dogs learn through classical conditioning, operant conditioning, social learning, and problem-solving, and what those mechanisms mean for practical bird dog training. You’ll learn why positive reinforcement can accelerate learning, how environmental experiences shape behavior, and why the breed may play a much smaller role in your dog’s temperament and hunting ability than you think.

The discussion gets especially interesting when Annie explains the incredible sensory world of a dog. Bird dogs can detect layers of scent that humans simply cannot perceive. Could an experienced pheasant dog actually distinguish a rooster from a hen? The science has not answered that question yet, but host Bob St.Pierre has got a theory sure to generate debate!

The conversation also covers canine intelligence, communication, the powerful bond between hunters and their dogs, and how to approach a dog’s final days with compassion and objectivity.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

For anyone who has ever watched a bird dog lock onto a point or shared quiet miles across public land, this conversation hits close to home. Singer-songwriter Reese Glover returns to talk about the official release of “Ballad of the Bird Dog,” a song introduced to the bird hunting community during an episode last year.

Reese shares how the song evolved from a simple live recording into a professionally produced studio release while staying true to its stripped-down, storytelling roots. Along the way, he dives into the songwriting process, finding inspiration in pheasant hunting, grouse hunting, and life with his German shorthaired pointer, Bridger. The conversation explores why bird dogs inspire great music, how hunting traditions shape creative work, and why the connection between hunters and their dogs continues to unite the upland community.

You'll also hear some fun pointer vs. flusher banter, perspective on balancing a music career with hunting season, and Reese’s upcoming plans to combine live performances with bird hunting. If you appreciate authentic outdoor storytelling, working bird dogs, and the culture surrounding upland hunting, this is one you'll want to hear from start to finish.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Check out last year’s On the Wing Podcast Ep #317 when we first met Reese Glover.
• Learn more about Reese and check out his touring schedule at www.ReeseGloverMusic.com.
• In the spirit of connecting habitat and harmonies, we’ve created a Spotify playlist titled “Good Dogs & Good Tunes.” Enjoy!

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Discover how great wild game meals become unforgettable when paired with exceptional wine and upland traditions.

A turkey hunt in California's vineyard country turns into a conversation about upland hunting, wild game cooking, and why great meals begin long before they reach the table. Quail Forever Journal Editor Ryan Sparks returns to Passalacqua Winery to share the story behind completing his turkey slam while chasing gobblers through rain-soaked vineyards filled with California valley quail. Along the way, the crew explores how thoughtful wine pairings can elevate everything from grilled ruffed grouse to barbecue pheasant pizza.

Passalacqua’s winemaker Jessica Boone breaks down two new Quail Forever collaboration wines, a balanced Russian River Valley Chardonnay and a vibrant Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, explaining how each complements upland birds without overpowering their natural flavor. Listeners will also hear creative wild game recipes, including pulled pheasant barbecue pizza and a French-inspired pheasant ragout served over creamy polenta, along with practical cooking tips for making the most of every bird in the freezer.

Whether you're passionate about quail hunting, turkey hunting, wild game recipes, bird dog traditions, or simply gathering around the grill after a day outdoors, this conversation offers plenty of inspiration for your next hunt and your next meal.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Learn more and order Passalacqua + Quail Forever collab wines and help support Quail Forever’s habitat mission.
• If you’re a Quail Forever Chapter eligible to win the quail hunting trip at Passalacqua Winery, you’ll want to listen to this episode to hear the winner’s name announced.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

The biggest victories for upland birds often happen long before hunting season ever opens.

Wild pheasants, quail, public land access, and quality bird hunting all depend on decisions made long before opening day. State legislatures shape wildlife habitat, conservation funding, prescribed fire, hunter access, and the future of upland hunting across America.

Bob St. Pierre sits down with Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Director of State Government Affairs Swanny Evans to break down the biggest conservation victories, challenges, and emerging threats from legislative sessions across pheasant and quail country. From new conservation license plates and dedicated wildlife funding to expanded public access, prescribed fire improvements, and hunter education programs, they explain how policy decisions directly affect the places hunters, bird dogs, and wildlife depend on.

The discussion also explores growing concerns surrounding ballot initiatives targeting hunting, state funding shortages for wildlife agencies, and ongoing efforts to protect public lands while expanding opportunities for future generations of upland hunters. You'll also hear how members, volunteers, and conservation partners are influencing legislation in dozens of states through grassroots advocacy.

Whether you chase roosters, coveys, prairie grouse, or simply care about healthy wildlife habitat, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the work protecting the future of upland conservation across the United States.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Learn more about PF & QF’s conservation advocacy efforts.
• Reach Swanny at sevans@pheasantsforever.org if you’d like to connect on conservation legislation in your state.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Discover the overlooked birds, wild landscapes, and upland habitat work shaping Wyoming.

Wyoming may be famous for sage grouse, mule deer, and elk, but the state offers far more upland hunting opportunities than most hunters realize. From dusky grouse in the high country to Hungarian partridge, chukar, sharp-tailed grouse, pheasants, and ruffed grouse, Wyoming is one of the most diverse bird hunting destinations in the West.

Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Wyoming State Coordinator Nick Yasko joins the show to break down the state's upland bird opportunities, public land access, habitat challenges, and conservation successes. Nick shares what he's learned since moving West from the Southeastern U.S., how Wyoming's unique landscapes shape bird distribution, and why hunters willing to explore can find incredible adventures across “The Cowboy State.”

The conversation dives into sage grouse habitat restoration, invasive grass management, wildlife-friendly fencing, conifer removal, and innovative projects designed to improve conditions for upland birds, pronghorn, and mule deer. Nick also explains how moisture-rich mesic habitats support brood survival through abundant insect populations and why habitat work benefits far more than a single species.

For hunters planning their first Wyoming trip, Nick offers practical advice on targeting a variety of upland birds, navigating mountain terrain, preparing vehicles for backcountry travel, and understanding the realities of hunting in a state with vast public lands and very few people.

Whether you're dreaming about chasing blue grouse above timberline or simply want a deeper understanding of Western conservation, this discussion delivers valuable insights from one of the country's most unique hunting landscapes.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• To learn more about PF & QF’s habitat work in Wyoming, please email Nick Yashko at nyashko@pheasantsforever.org.
• Get involved with a local PF or QF chapter in your area by visiting our Find a Chapter page or contact Bob Hix, our regional representative for the region at bhix@pheasantsforever.org.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

A conservation legend and a remarkable young bird caller reveal why America's uplands are worth protecting.

Conservation begins with curiosity, and few conversations capture that better than this one. Twelve-year-old bird calling phenom Samuel Henderson shares how his passion for birds and his extraordinary ability to mimic more than 125 species have inspired millions to pay closer attention to the natural world. From bobwhite quail and sandhill cranes to common loons and ring-necked pheasants, Samuel's talent reminds us of the power of a bird’s song to spark curiosity which results in a passion for PF & QF’s upland habitat mission.

That conversation naturally leads to Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, whose lifelong commitment to wildlife, public land access, and habitat conservation has shaped generations of hunters and anglers. Morris reflects on growing up quail hunting in the Missouri Ozarks, the bird dogs that fueled his family's outdoor traditions, and why protecting healthy habitat remains the foundation of America's hunting heritage.

Listeners will hear timeless stories about bobwhite quail hunting, bird dogs, conservation leadership, and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. It's a reminder that hunting and fishing aren't simply outdoor pursuits. They're opportunities to build stronger families, introduce young people to the outdoors, and ensure healthy wildlife populations for generations to come.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• At Quail Forever’s Bobwhite Ball in Saint Louis a few hours after this conversation, Johnny Morris was recognized as the organization’s first-ever recipient of the “Spirit of the Uplands” award.
• Morris has also announced a $250K investment in PF & QF’s Build a Wildlife Area program, which was made possible through the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund.
• Check out CBS Evening News feature on Samuel Henderson’s incredible bird calling talent.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Fall bird hunting starts long before the first rooster flushes or the first covey rises. It begins with maps spread across the table, bird reports rolling in, and conversations about the places, people, and traditions that make every hunting season unforgettable.

Travis Frank, host of The Flush on Outdoor Channel, shares what's ahead for the newest season while swapping stories about upcoming adventures across North America. From ruffed grouse camps in the Northwoods to Wyoming sage grouse country, Nebraska trout fishing, Idaho chukar hunting, Oregon quail country, and even a remote Alaska and Yukon adventure, the discussion highlights the excitement that comes with planning another year in the field.

The conversation goes beyond destinations. You'll hear why introducing kids to upland hunting creates lifelong memories, how public land conservation continues to expand opportunities for hunters, and why volunteers remain the driving force behind wildlife habitat restoration. The team also shares behind-the-scenes stories from filming The Flush, balancing authentic hunting experiences with television production, and the challenge of showcasing incredible public land without sacrificing the very places they hope to celebrate.

Whether you're finalizing your pheasant hunting plans, scouting a new quail spot, dreaming about western bird hunts, or simply counting down the days until opening morning, this conversation is the perfect way to kick off another season in the uplands.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• The Flush airs on Outdoor Channel from the first week of July through the last week of December each week at the following times (all times Eastern)
• Mondays @ 4:30 pm
• Tuesdays @ 1:30 pm
• Wednesdays @ 5:30 pm
• Thursdays @ 8:30 am
• Saturdays @ 12:30 pm
• Sundays @ 6:30 am

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Few things define the upland hunting experience like a good bird dog, a trusted shotgun, and memories built one hunt at a time.

On this episode of On The Wing Podcast, PF & QF’s Bob St.Pierre and Casey Sill sit down with Iowa musician and avid bird hunter Jared Benson to talk about the inspiration behind his new song, Old Bird Dog. What starts as a conversation about music quickly turns into a deeper discussion about bird hunting traditions, conservation, family, and the dogs that shape our lives in the field.

Jared shares how growing up waterfowl hunting in western Minnesota eventually led him to upland bird hunting in Iowa, where his first flushing rooster over a dog changed everything. Listeners will hear the story behind his German shorthaired pointer, Benny, the songwriting process that transformed hunting memories into music.

The conversation also explores the realities of building a music career outside Nashville, balancing family life with the demands of touring, and why authentic outdoor experiences continue to inspire some of the best storytelling in country music.

Whether you're chasing pheasants behind a bird dog, introducing the next generation to hunting, or simply looking for a soundtrack that reflects the upland lifestyle, this conversation will hit close to home.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Check out Jared Benson’s music on Facebook, Instagram or Spotify.
• Special thanks to SportDOG Brand for sponsoring this episode. Check out SportDOG’s lineup of products at www.SportDOG.com.
• In the spirit of connecting habitat and harmonies, we’ve created a Spotify playlist titled “Good Dogs & Good Tunes.” Enjoy!

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

As Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever celebrate Grasslands Week and Pollinator Week, this conversation explores the critical relationship between healthy habitat, thriving pollinator populations, and strong upland bird numbers. From pheasant chicks and bobwhite quail to Gambel's quail and prairie grouse, the insects supported by flowering plants provide the protein young birds need to survive and grow.

Habitat Education Programs Manager Marissa Jensen joins former PF & QF’s Southwest Regional Representative Lauren Stamm to discuss why pollinator habitat and brood habitat are exactly one and the same. The conversation also heads into the desert, where Lauren shares her passion for hunting, foraging, and creating wild game meals inspired by the landscapes she hunts.

Listeners will learn how prickly pear fruit supports desert wildlife, why Gambel's quail depend on these unique ecosystems, and how to turn wild-foraged prickly pear into a simple syrup that pairs perfectly with grilled quail. Along the way, the discussion explores conservation, public lands, raising the next generation of hunters, and the lessons children learn through time spent outdoors.

Whether you're passionate about upland bird hunting, bird dogs, pollinators, habitat conservation, wild game cooking, or simply becoming a more connected outdoors enthusiast, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on the landscapes that sustain both wildlife and hunters.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Help Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever make a positive impact for the birds, the bees, and people by becoming a PF member at www.PheasantsForever.org/join and/or a QF member at www.QuailForever.org/join.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

It’s “Hatch Week” at Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever, so it’s cause for celebration. In fact, peak hatch is happening now and understanding it can make you a better upland hunter.

What actually happens during pheasant hatch, quail nesting season, and prairie grouse breeding? This conversation breaks down the biology behind the birds many upland hunters pursue each fall, and explains why nesting cover, brood habitat, and conservation work are so critical to future hunting opportunities.

Listeners will learn how pheasant hens select nests, why renesting is common after a failed clutch, and what hens do after losing a brood of chicks. The discussion contrasts pheasants with bobwhite quail, which can produce multiple broods in a season, and explores the unique pair-bonding behavior of western quail species such as Gambel's, scaled, California, and mountain quail. The episode also dives into prairie grouse biology, including lekking behavior in greater prairie chickens, lesser prairie chickens, sharp-tailed grouse, and sage grouse. You'll hear why these traditional breeding grounds can persist for generations and why protecting them is a major conservation priority.

Whether you're a pheasant hunter in the Midwest, a bobwhite quail enthusiast in the South, or planning a western quail or prairie grouse trip, this is a practical look at how habitat quality translates into bird numbers on the landscape.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

Show notes

• Celebrate peak hatch by joining Pheasants Forever during “Hatch Week.” Thanks to a $10,000 Hatch Week matching gift, your membership can go even farther right now through June 20th, helping put habitat on the ground when it matters most. Join, renew, or upgrade your PF membership at https://www.pheasantsforever.org/hatch.
• Make a commitment to quail habitat by joining, renewing or upgrading with Quail Forever through our special spring QF membership offers at https://quailforever.org/spring.

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The connection between a bird dog and a hunter may be one of conservation’s most powerful forces.

For many upland hunters, the journey begins with their first bird dog. For others, that dog is what keeps them connected to hunting, habitat conservation, and life outdoors.

John Zeman has spent decades training bird dogs, competing in field trials, mentoring new handlers, and helping hunters develop better dogs. After retiring from the construction industry, he now spends even more time with the dogs, people, and public lands that have shaped his life.

John joins the conversation to explain why bird dogs often serve as a gateway to upland hunting, conservation groups, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors. He discusses the need for accessible training grounds, the rising demand for places to work young dogs, and how volunteer-led efforts are protecting these opportunities for future hunters. The episode also touches on Zeman’s work training Bob’s young German shorthaired pointer, Winter.

Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.

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Monsoon rains, desert grasslands, and wild coveys collide in Arizona’s ambitious quail restoration effort.

Arizona’s quail country is bigger, rougher, and more alive than most hunters realize. In this conversation, the crew behind Quail Forever’s Arizona Quail Initiative breaks down how large-scale habitat restoration is shaping the future of Gambel’s quail, scaled quail, and Mearns’ quail.

From remote desert grasslands to oak-covered “sky islands,” this episode digs into the real work happening behind the scenes to improve upland bird habitat on both public lands and working ranches. The discussion covers woody encroachment and removal, water catchment projects, grazing management, and how conservation partnerships are putting millions of dollars directly onto the landscape for quail habitat restoration.

You’ll hear how Arizona’s monsoon cycles influence quail populations, why Mearns’ quail depend so heavily on summer rains, and how habitat projects can quickly improve bird numbers when conditions align. For hunters dreaming about desert quail hunting, big running bird dogs, and wild country few people ever experience, this conversation paints a vivid picture of why Arizona remains one of the most unique quail hunting landscapes in North America.

Follow the show for more weekly hunting, conservation, bird dog, and upland bird conversations.

Show notes

• Learn more about QF’s Arizona Quail Initiative and QF’s RCPP project with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Arizona Association of Conservation Districts, Arizona Game & Fish Department, and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.
• Check out Bob St.Pierre and Wade Zarlingo’s hunt for quail in Arizona’s backcountry utilizing llamas to haul in camping gear at www.QuailForever.org/llama.

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Washington, D.C. can feel a long way from pheasant country, quail habitat, and working farms, but the decisions made there shape the future of upland hunting across America. In this conversation, the crew from Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever breaks down what happened during a recent D.C. fly-in alongside members of The Habitat Organization’s new Upland Caucus.

Public relations specialist Mikayla Peper shares what it was like meeting with members and staffers from the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to advocate for improved conservation measures in the next federal farm bill. The discussion dives into why CRP remains one of the most important conservation tools for wildlife habitat, water quality, soil health, and rural America.

The crew also explores how grassroots advocacy actually works, what happens behind closed doors in congressional offices, and why hunters, farmers, and ranchers need to stay engaged in the legislative process.

Show notes

• Help PF & QF advocate for CRP improvements in the U.S. Senate’s version of the farm bill at www.pheasantsforever.org/action.
• To learn more about PF & QF’s conservation advocacy efforts and Legislative Action Fund (LAF), please email our government affairs team at advocacy@pheasantsforever.org.

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Better habitat means better hunting. That’s not a surprising statement. What may surprise folks is how much sweat equity it takes to turn average habitat into elite upland habitat. In this episode, learn how an everyday landowner is building wildlife-rich ground with a little help from friends and family.

Private landowner Tim Kraskey breaks down the real-world habitat management strategies that directly impact upland bird numbers, deer hunting success, and waterfowl hunting opportunities. Kraskey is also a long-time Pheasants Forever chapter volunteer who extolls the virtues of being a volunteer committed to improving public land habitat for the greatest benefit to wildlife and all hunters.

From prescribed burns and tree removal to native grass restoration and food plot development, you’ll hear how intentional land stewardship creates better wildlife habitat—and ultimately, better hunts. The conversation goes beyond dirt work. You’ll learn how to approach access to private land hunting the right way, how to build meaningful relationships with private landowners, as well as how landowners can leverage conservation programs like CRP to maximize wildlife benefits. There’s also a strong emphasis on community: how volunteer habitat projects, local partnerships, and organizations like Pheasants Forever play a critical role in expanding hunting opportunities.

Whether you’re a new landowner, a bird hunter looking for access, or someone interested in conservation, this episode offers actionable strategies you can apply this season. It’s a grounded, experience-driven look at how habitat work, hunting success, and legacy all tie together in the modern outdoors.

Show notes

• Check out Outdoor News’ 2025 Outdoor Leaders Award recognizing Kraskey and the Brown County (MN) Chapter of Pheasants Forever.
• Thanks to John Deere, Irish Setter, and Orvis for sponsoring PF & QF’s Hands-On Habitat efforts across the country this spring. Listeners can get involved with PF & QF’s Hands-On Habitat efforts by identifying volunteer opportunities in the areas where you live and/or hunt by visiting https://pheasantsforever.org/handsonhabitat.

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Balancing bird dog training with young kids, busy schedules, and everyday life is a challenge most upland hunters eventually face. The reality is your dog doesn’t stop needing structure just because your time gets tighter. The good news is you don’t need hours in the field to maintain a high-performing hunting dog.

Veteran bird dog owner and SportDOG Brand’s Clay Thompson breaks down how to keep an experienced bird dog sharp through short, consistent training sessions built into your daily routine. The focus stays where it matters most—obedience. Commands like place, heel, sit, and steadiness form the foundation that carries over into real-world hunting situations, from waterfowl hunting setups to upland bird hunts chasing pheasants and bobwhite quail.

You’ll hear practical strategies for reinforcing control inside the house, using quick drills that fit between work, family, and everything else competing for your time. There’s also a hard look at introducing dogs to young kids, managing behavior safely, and involving the whole family in training to build consistency.

The takeaway is simple. If you can’t control your dog at five feet, you won’t control it fifty yards in the field. Strong obedience builds better hunting dogs, safer homes, and more productive days outdoors when the season opens.

Thanks to SportDOG Brand for sponsoring this episode of On the Wing Podcast. Check out all of SportDOG’s products at www.SportDog.com.

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Deep in the Texas High Plains, a committed group of conservationists is proving what’s possible when habitat work meets community grit. On a sprawling 9,000-acre property at Palo Duro, volunteers, biologists, and land managers are tackling real-world challenges like invasive species, wildfire mitigation, and declining upland bird habitat through hands-on conservation projects.

This conversation dives into the strategy behind a multi-day habitat event that blends prescribed fire, chainsaw work, native grass restoration, and one coordinated volunteer effort. The result is healthier grasslands, improved habitat for bobwhite quail, scaled quail, pheasants, and mule deer, and a blueprint for habitat restoration that can scale up or down anywhere in the country.

Beyond the land itself, the real impact shows up in the people. From college students launching wildlife careers to local volunteers rediscovering a passion for conservation, this effort highlights how hands-on habitat work fuels the future of upland hunting, bird dog culture, and outdoor stewardship.

Show notes

• Get involved with PF & QF’s Hands-On Habitat efforts by identifying volunteer opportunities in the areas where you live and/or hunt by visiting https://pheasantsforever.org/handsonhabitat.
• Thanks to John Deere, Irish Setter, and Orvis for sponsoring PF & QF’s Hands-On Habitat efforts across the country this spring.

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Great hunting spots aren’t just found; they’re named through hard-earned moments in the field. This collection of listener-submitted stories dives into the heart of upland bird hunting culture, where bird dogs, wild flushes, and unforgettable days turn ordinary places into permanent fixtures on the map. This “snackable” episode also announces the winner of the Frost River Woodsman Pack from the contest announced during episode #358.

From a young dog’s fearless leap on a Kansas quail hunt to a Minnesota pheasant hunting hotspot that produced first birds for the next generation, these stories capture the emotion and unpredictability that keep hunters coming back each season. Listeners will hear how covey rises, missed expectations, and once-in-a-lifetime shooting sequences shape not just success in the field, but the love language hunters use to remember it.

If you’ve ever named a spot after a hunt gone right or wrong, you’ll recognize exactly how these places earn their titles and why they never leave you.

Show notes

• Thanks to our friends at Frost River for supplying the grand prize Woodsman Pack.

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This conversation breaks down Habitat University, a skills-based platform designed to close the gap between theory and real-world application. Whether you’re planting a pollinator plot, improving nesting cover, establishing a food plot, or managing CRP acres, the focus is on actionable knowledge that leads to better results on the landscape.

You’ll hear how modern conservation faces a growing challenge: fewer people entering the field with hands-on land management experience. That gap impacts everything from pheasant and quail habitat to hunting success and overall wildlife populations. Habitat University addresses that by delivering short, practical courses on topics like seed drill calibration, prescribed burning, invasive species control, and habitat planning. For aspiring wildlife professionals, it offers a clear path to understanding conservation programs, working with landowners, and building job-ready skills.

Better habitat leads to more birds, stronger hunting opportunities, and healthier ecosystems. This is about putting knowledge into action where it matters most, on the ground.

Show notes

• Check out the second installment of The Upland Newsroom.
• Learn more about Habitat University courses.

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What if higher quality quail habitat could unlock better turkey hunting on your land?

Spring turkey hunting gets the spotlight, but the real story starts long before opening day. It lives in the habitat. This conversation brings together two wildlife biologists to break down the relationship between wild turkeys and bobwhite quail, cutting through myths and getting to what actually drives bird numbers on the landscape.

The discussion dives into the overlap between wild turkey habitat and quail habitat management, especially during nesting and brood-rearing seasons. You’ll learn why both species depend on early successional habitat, how insect-rich brood cover fuels poult and chick survival, and what separates ideal nesting cover for each bird. There’s also a deep look at prescribed fire, native grasses, and the importance of bare ground for mobility and survival.

For landowners and habitat managers, the takeaway is practical. Managing for bobwhite quail often creates high-quality turkey habitat as a byproduct, but not without understanding key differences like winter food sources and roosting needs. The conversation also tackles common misconceptions, including whether turkeys compete with or even prey on bobwhites.

If you care about better turkey hunting, stronger quail numbers, and building a more productive property, this is a blueprint rooted in real field experience and research.

Show notes

• Want to talk with a biologist about improving your property for wildlife? Find your local PF & QF biologist by visiting our FIND A BIOLOGIST tool.

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What if better habitat decisions could directly translate into higher populations of pheasants and quail, as well as better hunting opportunities?

Behind every great day chasing upland birds is high quality habitat that actually produces birds. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how science is shaping the future of upland bird hunting across the country.

During this conversation, PF & QF leaders and university professors discuss the newly formed Science Advisory Committee and how they’re tackling one of the toughest questions in wildlife conservation: how habitat improvements translate into real bird numbers on the landscape. That means moving beyond broad assumptions and digging into what actually works at the farm, region, and landscape level. From improving bobwhite quail habitat in the Southeast to optimizing pheasant habitat in the Midwest, the focus is on putting the right acres in the right places for maximum impact.

There’s also a deeper look at how conservation ties into water quality, soil health, and long-term sustainability, showing how better habitat decisions benefit far more than our cherished upland gamebird numbers. For hunters, the takeaway is simple: smarter habitat leads to more opportunity, better dog work, and more consistent days in the field.

This is an inside look at how scientific research, boots-on-the-ground experience, and real-world hunting knowledge are coming together to shape the future of upland bird hunting.

Show notes

• Listeners with upland habitat and gamebird-focused suggestions for scientific research should email Dr. Jess Gonynor-McGuire at jess@quailforever.org.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Every hunter has a spot with a name that holds memories, birds, and meaning.

Spend enough seasons chasing upland birds and the map starts to change. What begins as public land or a patch of cover turns into something personal. A place earns a name through miles walked, bird dogs worked, and coveys flushed at just the right moment.

This conversation dives into the stories behind those names and the hunting memories that made them stick. From South Dakota pheasant hunting honey holes to ruffed grouse coverts hidden deep in the timber to secret quail spots that can never be located again, each story reveals how habitat, pressure, and experience shape the way hunters see the land. You’ll hear how small pieces of overlooked public land can consistently produce birds, why certain upland hunting spots reload with roosters, and how identifying the right mix of cover and food creates reliable success.

There’s also a deeper thread running through it all. Naming a place isn’t just about navigation. It’s about ownership in a different sense. Public land hunting becomes personal when a bird dog locks up for the first time, when a rooster flushes exactly where it should, or when a long walk turns into something unforgettable.

If you care about upland bird hunting, bird dog work, and building your own catalog of hunting spots, this one will hit close to home.

Show notes

1. Read Quail Forever Journal Editor Ryan Sparks’ essay that served as the catalyst to this podcast at www.QuailForever.org/nams.
2. Become a member of Quail Forever to receive the Quail Forever Journal at www.QuailForever.org/join.
3. Become a member of Pheasants Forever to receive the Pheasants Forever Journal at www.PheasantsForever.org/join.

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One hunter’s relentless quest to chase upland birds across America’s wildest terrain.

This conversation dives deep into the reality behind the “upland slam” — not just the birds, but the dogs, the habitat, and the wild game meal at the end of a hunt. Listeners will pick up practical insights on upland bird hunting strategy, from breaking down unfamiliar terrain to identifying productive habitat like timber cuts, chaparral, and sagebrush steppe. There’s a heavy emphasis on how to adapt when things aren’t working, including when to abandon a spot and trust your instincts.

The mountain quail hunt brings steep, punishing country into focus, where dog conditioning, physical endurance, and habitat research determine success. Then the conversation shifts to California valley quail hunting with fast action, big coveys, and classic wingshooting. The conversation also takes the listener through chukar and desert quail country as well.

Along the way, you’ll hear hard-earned lessons on quail behavior, covey dynamics, shotgun setup, and bird dog performance across wildly different environments. More than anything, it’s a reminder that the pursuit isn’t just about reaching a limit — it’s about the places, the dogs, and the decision to go now instead of later.

Show notes

1. Check out Hunter Kamm’s collection of photos from his bird hunting adventures by following him on Instagram at @Hunter.Kamm.5

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Learn what it really takes to guide upland hunts across the ruffed grouse woods and through the desert quail country.

Behind the Instagram photos of bird dogs on point is a far grittier reality. Brian Vander Maazen pulls back the curtain on life as a full-time bird hunting guide, from the aspen covers of Wisconsin to the desert edges of scaled quail country. This conversation gets into the daily grind of guiding upland hunters, reading habitat, training gun dogs, and building a lifestyle around wild birds.

You’ll hear how early-season ruffed grouse hunting really works when the leaves are still hanging, why October is prime time for woodcock flights, and how bird numbers, weather, and habitat cycles shape every hunt. Brian breaks down the strategy behind scouting public land, managing hunting pressure, and matching clients with the right covers and dogs. There’s real insight into reading bird dog behavior, understanding bird movement, and creating consistent shooting opportunities in unpredictable conditions.

The conversation also shifts south, where scaled quail hunting demands a completely different approach, from terrain to dog work. Along the way, Brian shares the financial realities of guiding, the importance of client expectations, and why dogs are at the center of it all.

If you’ve ever considered hiring a guide or becoming one, this is an unfiltered look at what it takes to make it work.

Show notes

1. Learn more about Brian’s hunting and guide services at https://amaazen.com/.

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This episode delivers a clear, responsible path for turning the e-collar into a trusted communication tool for your bird dog.

Bringing home a new bird dog is one of the best parts of the hunting lifestyle. Along with the excitement comes an important question for many first-time handlers. When and how should an electronic training collar enter the picture?

Veteran bird dog owner and SportDOG Brand’s Clay Thompson walks through a practical framework for introducing an e-collar to a young hunting dog without confusion, fear, or shortcuts. The conversation centers on patience, timing, and the fundamentals that every bird dog owner should understand before pressing a single button. By pairing the e-collar with cues the dog already knows, handlers can reinforce obedience and gradually transition to off leash control in the field.

Clay also breaks down why modern training collars are communication tools rather than punishment devices. Used correctly, they help keep a dog safe during upland bird hunting situations like chasing pheasants across roads or breaking on a group of chukars ready to fly over a steep cliff. Handlers will also hear practical advice on finding the correct stimulation level, building consistency, and avoiding common mistakes new bird dog owners make.

Thanks to SportDOG Brand for sponsoring this episode of On the Wing Podcast. Check out all of SportDOG’s products at www.SportDog.com.

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This episode reprises a panel conversation at this year’s National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic moderated by PF & QF’s Andrew Vavra and included veteran bird hunters Katie Willis, Tyler Webster, and Bob St.Pierre.

Planning your next upland bird hunting adventure goes far beyond packing your gear—it’s about setting clear expectations, maintaining a flexible mindset, and preparing for all the variables that come with the journey. Before you hit the road, ask yourself why you’re making the trip and remember that a successful outing isn’t just measured by the number of birds on the tailgate but by the overall experience. Consider who you’re traveling with—group and dog dynamics can significantly shape your trip, as can the choice between going solo or with friends.

The group has a fun and vibrant conversation structured within four categories; 1) Don’t leave home without it, 2) Know before you go, 3) Traveling to & from your destination, and 4) Considerations during your hunt.

At the end of the day, thoughtful preparation leads to a more enjoyable and responsible hunt, with respect for the land, local hunters, and the birds pursued. This podcast will walk you through all these key considerations, offering tips and insights to ensure your trip is memorable for all the right reasons.

Show notes - The following outline was created by Katie Willis and used by Andrew Vavra to moderate both the panel conversation at Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic 2026 and this episode of On the Wing Podcast.

Don’t Leave Home Without It

1. Reasonable expectations, good attitude, flexibility, Real Coca-Cola, fruit snacks
2. Why do you want to go on this trip? If your goal is a tailgate full of birds, get real, it takes time to dial in spots and your success cannot be defined by birds otherwise you won’t have a lot of “good” trips…
3. Group dynamics/dog dynamics
4. Solo vs. group outting
5. Vehicle Needs
6. Tires
7. Chains vs snow rated tires, spare tire
8. Tools & know how
9. Traction devices
10. Air compressor (patch kit)
11. Bottle Jack
12. Towrope
13. Shovel
14. Emergency kit
15. GPS, inReach, emergency contact info
16. Beyond the Basics
17. Gun cleaning kit (spare shotgun?)
18. More ammo than you think you’ll need
19. Gaiters/extra boots/chaps/foul weather gear
20. Boot dryer
21. Vacuum sealer w/marker

Know Before You Go

1. Know when you want to go, not where you want to go
2. Manage your expectations and live within your reality to avoid disappointment
3. Dog power, travel time, scouting time etc. all limits your actual hunting time – want to shoot for five hunting days if possible…
4. It takes real time to figure an area out…
5. Do Your Research:
6. Best place to get information about road side counts, population densities, and state regs.
7. Where can licenses be purchased, online/OTC?
8. Can licenses be purchased the day of the hunt, or is there a waiting period?
9. How can the license be carried? i.e. paper copy, on phone, through state app
10. What non-resident options are offered? i.e. 3-day, 7-day, season
11. Any voluntary programs/donations that support habitat available when purchasing a license.
12. Do I need proof of hunter safety to purchase a license?
13. What endorsements need to be purchased for upland hunting? i.e. small game license, pheasant tag, walk-in endorsement
14. Are there parking permits or other associated tags/permits needed?
15. What upland birds are available and what are the seasons?
16. Do limits change during the season?
17. Are the seasons the same for both residents and non-residents?
18. What types of publicly accessible land are available? – How are these lands noted on OnX?
19. Do ammo regulations vary between land types? i.e. tox/non-tox
20. Are the regulations the same for all of the areas? i.e. all WMA managed the same?
21. Are there sign-in requirements for any areas? What are they?
22. What is the purpose of the sign-ins?
23. Are there any studies or reporting for hunters to complete?
24. Can you cross onto private to retrieve game? i.e. leave gun at the fence/send a dog
25. How does private have to be posted? i.e. corner signage or electronic
26. What roads can you drive/gates you can open to access public land?
27. Can you keep sheds/dead heads?
28. Any rules regarding shooting distances? i.e. how far from homes, outbuildings, and livestock
29. Requirements for cleaning birds? i.e. What needs to be left/identifiable and how many can you possess?

Traveling To (and From) Your Destination

1. Weather and route selection
2. Road conditions, state DOT resources,
3. Timing your travel: avoiding traffic when it’s hot, hitting passes/bad weather
4. How often (and where/where not) to stop for your dogs
5. Know your MPG and don’t get caught on a long stretch w/out services

Considerations During Your Hunt

1. Specifically for your dogs
2. Environmental hazards: snakes, ticks, fungal infections, heat stroke, traps, skunks, porcupines
3. Vaccinations, antibiotics, first aid kit, local vet resources
4. GI issues (rice, pumpkin, probiotics, rehydration tools)
5. Avoid high-use dog areas during travel
6. Terrain hazards: cliffs, fences, cactus, sand burrs, hot springs

A 13-year-old bird dog trainer is funding public access one cookie at a time.

At National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic, most conversations revolve around bird dogs, habitat, and the next great upland hunt. This one goes further. Brooke Bartels, a young dog handler deeply involved in North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA), is turning homemade cookies into real dollars for wildlife habitat and public hunting access.

Raised in a family devoted to Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever, and versatile hunting dogs, Brooke trains Epagneul Bretons, runs NAVHDA tests, and understands firsthand the value of quality bird dog breeding standards. But her impact stretches beyond the training field. Through Cookies for Conservation, she has raised thousands of dollars to support PF & QF’s Public Access To Habitat (PATH) Program, helping expand access for upland bird hunters.

This conversation explores more than baking. It dives into youth involvement in conservation, the importance of habitat restoration, ethical dog breeding backed by performance testing, and why public access to pheasant and quail hunting matters for the future of the outdoors. You will hear how community, volunteerism, and hands-on habitat work shape the next generation of hunters and anglers.

If you care about upland bird hunting, public land access, versatile hunting dogs, and leaving wildlife habitat better than you found it, this one hits home.

Show notes

1. Check out Cookies for Conservation on Instagram at @cookiesforconservation.
2. Learn more about North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association on the NAVHDA website at www.navhda.org.

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Iowa’s upland birds are rebounding, but habitat still determines their future.

The 100th pheasant season in Iowa delivered the kind of optimism hunters haven’t felt in two decades. Roadside counts climbed. Rooster harvest is projected to be the strongest in 20 years. Northern bobwhite numbers in the southern tier surged, with quail harvest potentially doubling from recent seasons. Even Hungarian partridge populations showed signs of growth.

But strong bird numbers don’t happen by accident.

This conversation dives deep into the real drivers behind pheasant and quail populations in the Hawkeye State. From winter survival and brood habitat to hunting pressure and predator dynamics, the takeaway is simple: habitat is the lever that matters most. Period.

Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how farming practices, CRP enrollment, seasonal weather patterns, and habitat opportunities shape the state of upland bird hunting. The lesson is practical and actionable: if you care about rooster flushes and covey rises, you care about grass.

Show notes

1. Find a Pheasants Forever or Quail Forever near you at https://events.pheasantsforever.org/events
2. Connect with a PF & QF Farm Bill Biologist about improving your land for wildlife.

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National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic returns to the Minneapolis Convention Center with a packed weekend of upland celebrations. Turnpike Troubadours headline the Concert for Conservation, with Dave Simonett of Trampled by Turtles opening the show on Thursday night. For bird hunters, hearing “The Bird Hunters” played live before a weekend dedicated to upland hunting, bird dogs, and grassland conservation is about as good as it gets.

The show floor opens on Friday following the annual Bird Dog Parade, where more than 100 hunting dogs representing almost four dozen breeds will highlight the event’s kickoff. From flushers to retrievers to pointers, it is a celebration of the dogs that define bird hunting. More than 350 exhibitors will fill the hall with shotguns, upland hunting vests, technical hunting apparel, dog training gear, wildlife habitat seed, conservation equipment, and public lands resources. New upland gear releases, emerging upland brands, and hands-on habitat education

share space with veteran outfitters and bird dog breeders.

There will also be seminars across multiple stages covering habitat management, grassland restoration, public land access, bird dog training, and practical hunting tactics. Saturday features the Life Member Breakfast with NFL Hall of Famer Jared Allen, as well as the evening’s National Banquet with longtime outdoor columnist and PF founder Dennis Anderson. Anderson will share his personal story behind one of conservation’s most influential grassroots movements.

This is more than a trade show. It is a reunion of bird hunters, wildlife habitat conservationists, and landowners committed to protecting and growing upland habitat across America.

Show notes

1. Learn more about National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic presented by Federal Ammunition at www.PheasantFest.org.
2. Check out all the stage lineups by going to our Highlights & Events page.
3. Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Each February, Charleston, South Carolina becomes the center of Southern sporting culture, and this conversation explains why the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) has earned that reputation. From quail hunting traditions to world-class sporting art and bird dogs on every corner, SEWE is where upland culture, quail habitat conservation, and delicious food collide. This year, SEWE takes place from February 13-15, 2026.

Listeners will hear about the attractions within Quail Forever’s “Quail Classic” at SEWE’s Brittlebank Park, why downtown galleries matter just as much as gear booths, and how hunters, bird dog lovers, conservationists, and families all find their place across multiple venues taking over the entire city of Charleston.

There’s a practical side as well. The conversation digs into QF’s quail habitat efforts and how organizations like Quail Forever connect landowners with biologists for real, on the ground results. You’ll learn why SEWE matters for the future of quail hunting in the Southeast, and how QF’s raffles, volunteers, and local chapters turn culture into conservation.

Savory dishes round out the picture. Lowcountry boils, fresh oysters, shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and whole hog barbecues are as much a part of the weekend as bird dogs and shotguns. And if you’ve ever wondered why Boykin Spaniels seem to outnumber people in Charleston during SEWE, there’s an answer for that too.

This is an insider’s look at a weekend that blends hunting heritage, modern conservation, and Southern hospitality into something bigger than an event.

Show notes

1. Read QF Editor Ryan’s Sparks “The South’s Upland Showcase” about Quail Forever’s Quail Classic attractions at SEWE.
2. Get your raffle tickets for a Polaris Ranger 570 with proceeds supporting Quail Forever’s wildlife habitat mission.
3. Get your tickets for Quail Forever’s SEWE VIP Social hosted by SC Quail Forever at Groovers Listening Bar in Charleston on Saturday, February 15, 2026.
4. Learn more about SEWE at www.SEWE.com.
5. Special THANK YOU to Quail Forever’s SEWE partners at
6. onX Hunt
7. Bird Buggy
8. Alabama Black Belt Adventures
9. Purina Pro Plan
10. Discover Thomasville Georgia
11. Southwind Plantation
12. John Kohler Associates
13. Kolpin Outdoors
14. Polaris
15. Irish Setter
16. TurtleBox
17. Orvis
18. Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure.

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When roosters vanish and quail cooperate, the road trip still teaches hard-earned upland lessons.

Sixteen years into Rooster Road Trip, Kansas delivered a reminder every upland hunter eventually learns. You can do your homework, study maps, trust your instincts, and still come up empty on roosters. This recap pulls back the curtain on our late-season bird hunt where plans shifted, expectations were reset, and bobwhite coveys became the story worth telling.

The conversation digs into the realities of public land bird hunting, from e-scouting WIHA parcels to boots-on-the-ground habitat evaluation that only happens after miles walked behind bird dogs. The crew reflects on adapting when pheasants refused to cooperate, what it means to “think like a covey,” and why flexibility often separates productive days from long ones in the uplands.

Listeners will hear honest takes on late-season upland strategies, bird behavior in pressured landscapes, and the role habitat work plays in shaping bird numbers over time. There’s also a behind-the-scenes look at filming hunts when weather, gear failures, and limited camera operators force creative problem-solving in the field.

Beyond the birds, the episode captures the camaraderie that keeps hunters coming back. Shared miles, small mishaps, hard laughs, and meaningful moments underscore why these trips matter. Success isn’t always measured in limits filled, but in lessons learned, dogs worked, and ground covered together.

And, there’s a big announcement about the future of Rooster Road Trip at the end.

Show notes

1. Check out all of our Rooster Road Trip content at www.RoosterRoadTrip.org.
2. Participate in our first-ever Rooster Road Trip Raffle for your chance to take home the gear utilized by this year’s hunters.
3. Use the code EARLYBIRD at www.SoundGear.com before February 19th for 30% off a SoundGear Phantom order.
4. Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Kansas has a reputation in upland circles, and for good reason. Wide-open spaces, rolling grasslands, and the promise of bobwhite coveys and cackling roosters tucked into classic bird country. On this year’s Rooster Road Trip, that promise got tested repeatedly.

Mika Rezac, PF & QF’s regional representative from Kansas, joins the crew with her pack of outstanding Labs and English setter. In fact, she brings her secret weapon along, Spade the “LabraDwarf.” Through hearty laughter, Rezac talks about the state’s bird populations, upcoming conservation legislation, and how she helps PF & QF chapter volunteers maximize their relevancy. From woody encroachment and grassland loss, our final day’s hunt turns into a boots-on-the-ground lesson in why wild bird populations are in need of the upland community’s help.

This episode digs into what Kansas’ upland country really looks like in 2025, how management decisions ripple across landscapes, and why hunters have a responsibility to understand habitat—not just hunt it. This year’s Rooster Road Trip didn’t go as planned, but it delivered exactly what it was supposed to: perspective.

Show notes

1. Check out all of our Rooster Road Trip content at www.RoosterRoadTrip.org.
2. Participate in our first-ever Rooster Road Trip Raffle for your chance to take home the gear utilized by this year’s hunters.
3. Follow @spade_the_labradwarf on Instagram.
4. Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Rooster Road Trip continues with a stop at one of our Build a Wildlife Area projects where we opened up a land-locked parcel to create more than 1,000 acres of public access. Kansas doesn’t always get the credit it deserves for quail, but when habitat is high-quality and access is open, it can flat-out deliver. In this episode, the Rooster Road Trip crew rolls into northeast Kansas to dig into what makes public ground actually work for bird hunters.

Joined by Marcus Sanders, PF & QF Farm Bill Biologist out of Manhattan, Kansas, the conversation goes well beyond limits and bird counts. The guys talk prescribed fire, habitat restoration, and why programs like PF & QF’s Build a Wildlife Area are some of the most important tools hunters have to protect access long-term. There’s plenty of hunting talk mixed in with conversations about dog work, honest misses, and the kind of laughs that only come from road-tripping.

From walking the Blue Valley Wildlife Area to breaking down how private land conservation dollars turn into public hunting opportunity, this episode connects the dots between boots on the ground and policy that actually benefits wildlife. If you care about quail, public access, and keeping places to hunt for the next generation, this one hits home.

Show notes

1. Check out all of our Rooster Road Trip content at www.RoosterRoadTrip.org.
2. Participate in our first-ever Rooster Road Trip Raffle for your chance to take home the gear utilized by this year’s hunters.
3. Find a PF or QF biologist in your area for expert advice about conservation programs to improve your land for pheasants and quail.
4. Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Some days test your legs, dogs, patience, and purpose, but they also teach the deepest lessons.

Rooster Road Trip rolls through Kansas with a hard-earned reminder: not every day in bird country goes as planned. In this episode, the crew dives into the realities of public land pheasant and quail hunting, long miles, tough habitat conditions, and the discipline required to keep scouting when the habitat isn’t there and the birds aren’t cooperating.

From navigating Kansas WIHA parcels to reading drought-stressed grasslands, listeners will hear practical lessons on evaluating upland habitat, knowing when to walk away, and why time behind the windshield can matter more than time behind the shotgun. The conversation blends boots-on-the-ground hunting strategy with honest reflections on habitat variability and the difference good grass makes for bobwhite quail and ringneck pheasants.

The episode also explores the emotional side of bird hunting: honoring great bird dogs, appreciating fleeting moments on point, and understanding how conservation work—like fighting cedar encroachment and restoring grasslands—directly impacts the hunts we care about. You’ll come away with sharper public land scouting instincts, a deeper respect for habitat management, and renewed motivation to keep chasing wild birds even on the grind-it-out days.

This is an insider look at upland hunting as it really happens, equal parts frustration, persistence, conservation, and reward.

Show notes

1. Check out all of our Rooster Road Trip content at www.RoosterRoadTrip.org.
2. Check out our first-ever Rooster Road Trip Raffle for your chance to take home the gear utilized by this year’s hunters.
3. Learn more about the “Green Glacier” and it’s negative impact on habitat and bird hunting by listening to On the Wing episode #310.
4. Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Wild bobwhite quail, public lands, and bird dogs collide in Kansas as our 16th installment of Rooster Road Trip takes flight.

You’ll hear how the Rooster Road Trip ethos focused on hunting public land for five days with whatever conditions Mother Nature delivers has stayed consistent over the years, even as habitat challenges evolve. The group breaks down current habitat and public land conditions in Kansas, with a focus on the importance of shrubs, bare ground, and prescribed fire for bobwhite quail. There’s practical insight here for anyone planning a DIY upland hunt, especially bird hunters looking to extend their season when northern states are locked in winter snow.

The episode also highlights the human side of the organization and of bird hunters: resilience, grief, joy, and the grounding power of walking America’s grasslands behind good bird dogs with friends. From exploding coveys and “popcorn flushes” to dog work in dense cover, listeners will come away with a clearer understanding of late-season bird hunting strategies and why public land still matters. This is an insider conversation: honest, reflective, and rooted in the realities of modern upland hunting.

Show notes

1. Check out all of our Rooster Road Trip content at www.RoosterRoadTrip.org.
2. Check out our first-ever Rooster Road Trip Raffle for your chance to take home the gear utilized by this year’s hunters.
3. Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

A first-of-its-kind “Grouse Camp” brings the prairies, forests, bird dogs, and upland community together under one roof. National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic has long been the premier gathering for the upland community, but 2026 raises the bar. In this episode, we preview the debut of Grouse Camp, a brand-new, immersive experience built for serious upland hunters who care as much about habitat as they do about bird dogs and autumn covers.

Leaders from the North American Grouse Partnership, Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society, and Wisconsin Sharp-tailed Grouse Society break down what Grouse Camp really is: a collaborative hub where prairie grouse and forest grouse share the spotlight. Listeners will hear how this camp-style lounge blends upland hunting culture with real conversations about habitat management, public lands, conservation policy, wild game cooking, and the future of grouse populations across North America.

The discussion goes beyond the show floor. You’ll learn why prairie grouse are drawing new hunters West, how Instagram and public land access are reshaping upland travel, and why grouse species are powerful indicators of healthy grasslands and forests. The episode also explores what successful conservation actually looks like—measured not just in acres restored, but in bird populations and cherished experiences.

Woven throughout are personal stories: favorite covers, unforgettable flushes, bird dogs on point, and the places that define why upland hunting matters. Whether you chase ruffed grouse in aspen cuts, prairie chickens on the plains, pheasants in the prairies, or quail in the piney woods, this conversation pulls the entire upland world together.

Show notes

1. Learn more about PF & QF’s first-ever Grouse Camp taking place at National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic 2026 coming up on February 20-22, 2026 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
2. Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Statehouse conservation battles are shaping your future experiences in the uplands. This episode provides a valuable state-by-state rundown of what’s coming in 2026 and how bird hunters can influence policy through advocacy efforts at the state level.

From dedicated conservation funding to the restructuring of state natural resource agencies, the 2026 legislative season is already loaded with major issues that could reshape the future of upland hunting, wildlife management, and habitat conservation across the country. In this episode, host Bob St. Pierre sits down with Swanny Evans, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s Director of Government Affairs, for a deep dive into the state-level policy fights that matter most to bird hunters, habitat advocates, and public land diehards.

Swanny breaks down upcoming conservation legislation from Pennsylvania to Washington and Tennessee to Colorado, highlighting wins, setbacks, and the political realities driving each effort. Listeners get an insider view at how dedicated funding models work, why license plate programs help fuel on-the-ground habitat work, and how charitable gaming reforms directly impact chapter fundraisers that support upland conservation nationwide.

The guys also tackle access issues like Sunday hunting, college-student hunting license reforms, public lands bills, and growing threats from “ballot box biology.” Swanny also explains how hunters, anglers, and conservationists can meaningfully influence state policy, and why a single action-alert email can carry surprising weight when it hits an elected official’s inbox at the right time.

If you care about upland habitat, bird dogs, hunting access, public lands, or the future of conservation funding, this is essential listening.

Show notes

• Learn more about PF & QF’s advocacy efforts or drop an email inquiry to advocacy@pheasantsforever.org. 
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

A rich, winter-ready wild game dish that hunters can master with simple stock and sauce techniques. 

In this holiday feasting edition of On the Wing podcast, we dig into an upland-inspired meal built for cold evenings after long days in the field. Quail Forever Journal Editor Ryan Sparks returns to the podcast and guides hunting cooks through his red wine and mushroom quail recipe, an approachable plate that blends Italian-style game cooking with ingredients any bird hunter can pull straight from the freezer.

Ryan breaks down how to turn a handful of bobwhite quail into a meal that highlights every ounce of the bird. You’ll learn why small game cooks should always save legs and carcasses, how to make a no-nonsense homemade stock in a crockpot, and how to build richer, more reliable sauces using simple reduction and deglazing techniques. We also cover choosing the right mushrooms, crisping quail breasts properly, pairing wild game with the right wine, and adapting the recipe for pheasants or other upland birds.

Whether you're a seasoned upland hunter or an aspiring wild game cook, this episode gives you practical, confidence-building techniques you can use across your entire upland hunting and wild-game kitchen repertoire. And yes, this one absolutely tastes like Christmas.

Show notes

• Check out the Passalacqua + Quail Forever wines and a limited-edition holiday gift pack ready to ship in time for Christmas. 
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

A fall feast of pheasant, apples, and Passalacqua Winery’s white wine created for hunters who love wild game. 

In this snackable holiday edition of On the Wing podcast, Quail Forever Journal Editor Ryan Sparks breaks down his pretzel-crusted pheasant cutlets with apple cream sauce, a cold-weather dish that blends upland hunting traditions with rich autumn flavors. If you’re looking for a new way to showcase fresh pheasant after a long day in the field, this is the recipe to add to your hunter’s table.

Ryan walks through the full process, from pounding out pheasant breasts for even cooking to building the perfect crisp using crushed pretzel chips. He explains why spaetzle makes the ideal companion starch and how to avoid common pitfalls when cooking delicate wild game. Along the way, he shares stories from late-season pheasant hunts on his family’s ranch, highlighting how food ties us back to the land and the memories behind each bird.

You’ll learn how to make a balanced apple cream sauce using pheasant stock, the best varietal of apple for the dish, and how to build flavor without overpowering the natural taste of upland birds. And to top it off, Ryan pairs the entire dish with the Passalacqua + Quail Forever Fiano, a bright white wine that cuts through the richness of the cutlet and elevates every bite.

Whether you’re planning a holiday wild game feast or just want a new go-to wild game meal, this episode delivers everything you need to cook like a seasoned hunter-chef.

Show notes

• Check out the Passalacqua + Quail Forever wines and a limited-edition holiday gift pack ready to ship in time for Christmas. 
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of Illinois upland hunting with chapter volunteer leader and bird dog devotee Freddy Reyes. Aaron Williams, PF & QF’s regional representative for northern Illinois, also provides a boots-on-the-ground upland report for early-season pheasant and quail hunting. Together, they break down common struggles for new hunters (from gear and dogs to confidence in the field) and share practical takeaways you can use on your next upland hunt.

Freddie also shares how he transitioned from deer and dove hunting to discovering the thrill of bird dogs and wingshooting. You’ll hear how his German shorthaired pointer, Bailey, completely changed his hunting trajectory and how that dog/hunter connection fuels his passion for mentoring new hunters across Illinois. From running youth clinics to helping adult-onset hunters through Illinois’ Learn to Hunt program, Freddie illustrates why volunteerism is the backbone of PF & QF’s upland conservation mission.

If you care about bird hunting, upland habitat, youth recruitment, or the future of conservation, this discussion delivers real insight straight from the field. This episode is an authentic, insider conversation for anyone passionate about bird hunting, habitat conservation, and growing the next generation of outdoorsmen and women.

Show notes

• Learn more about PF & QF in Illinois at www.IHuntIL.com.
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.