2012 Upland Game Bird Season Update

Most of Montana's upland game bird hunting seasons are underway, but many experienced hunters-and their trusty retrievers and pointers- are hoping for good shooting and cooler days ahead.

In most areas of Montana, Montana wing-shooters should find the state rather accommodating with fair to good game bird populations and some pockets of very good hunting potential.

Montana's upland game bird hunting seasons generally run through Jan. 1, 2013. The exception is the sage grouse season, which closes Nov. 1.

Montana's pheasant season opens Oct. 6 and runs through New Year's Day. For more information on upland game bird hunting in Montana, visit FWP's website at fwp.mt.gov, click "Hunting" then click Hunting Guide.

Here's a look at what upland game bird hunters can expect this season

Region 7-Southeastern Montana

"Last winter was among the mildest on record, so overwinter survival of upland game birds was high. Sharp-tailed grouse production was good with excellent numbers throughout the region; sage grouse should be found in fair numbers; turkey populations are good but still below long-term averages. In general, upland game birds have begun to recover from declines due to several harsh winters. Dry conditions this summer probably enhanced brood survival since young chicks easily succumb to the elements in cold, wet weather. While drought conditions and emergency haying of CRP will take a toll on fall hunting, hunters can nonetheless expect to see more upland game birds this fall compared to the past few years.

"Pheasants look to be in good supply. Overall, spring nesting conditions were favorable, thanks to plentiful moisture in spring-summer 2011, which translated abundant residual cover for nesting birds this spring.