re: grouse # last few weeks

[Jnyiri]

My problem this year is haven't had a clear shot at them.
In general would say there are some around, very spooky and elusive.
Back at it on Sunday

Now thats a different story.

[Woodsman]

Not seeing as many as usual in the Temagami area on my ATV rides.
Same with rabbits.
But red fox numbers are up.

[finsfurfeathers]

Now thats a different story.

Yup. When I hunted with dad batting average was really good. Than again back then dad handled the dogs, I set up infront on the escape route. Dad would flush and I'd shoot. Doing it by myself rarely gives me an opportunity for a shot however if I'd put the gun down could take same awesome pointing pictures

[Jnyiri]

Yup. When I hunted with dad batting average was really good. Than again back then dad handled the dogs, I set up infront on the escape route. Dad would flush and I'd shoot. Doing it by myself rarely gives me an opportunity for a shot however if I'd put the gun down could take same awesome pointing pictures

Same here. 99% I hunt alone and these birds are not stupid.
Untitled by Jozsef Nyiri, on Flickr

[finsfurfeathers]

Same here. 99% I hunt alone and these birds are not stupid.

Curious do you find your dogs handle grouse differently? Does one "find" more birds while the other gives better opportunities at a shot?

[fishhawk]

I have found as the season progresses and the leaves are off the trees the grouse move from areas of mostly young hardwoods to areas with more conifers.

[finsfurfeathers]

more fun in the snow!

Not if you are hunting with a dog. Sure the dogs wouldn't mind but find knee deep stuff starts to get hard on the dogs.

[ninepointer]

I have found as the season progresses and the leaves are off the trees the grouse move from areas of mostly young hardwoods to areas with more conifers.

Yup, when its white look for green. Especially spruce and cedar. Scotts Pine not so much.

[Pigeoneater5000]

Pre deer hunts I was finding them where spruce/cedar trees meet apple trees. lots of new blow downs from that crazy wind storm we had a while back. If the snow is crunchy I stay home. Dogs paws take a beating and grouse here ya a mile away. Only a few weeks left!

[rf2]

I am seeing multiple birds every time I am out deer hunting. I'm sure if I pick up a shotgun and go hunt them though, I won't see even one.