PHEASANT SEASON DATES
Pheasant Oct. 11-Dec. 15
Montana pheasant hunters are in store for a welcome surprise when the season opens on Oct. 11.
"Well-timed and plentiful spring rains in many parts of the state got pheasant broods off to a good start, and in eastern Montana the birds got through the winter in pretty good shape, giving the population there a little extra boost," said Gary Hammond, FWP Wildlife Division management bureau chief.
Hammond said the dry summer wasn't a factor for pheasants this year.
"The quantity and timing of spring precipitation is more of a factor in determining the quality of the fall hunting season," Hammond said. "We look for enough early rain for good nesting cover, and not so much rain or cold that it limits the hatch."
Hammond said other factors that contribute to a good pheasant season are the amount of residual cover left from the past growing season and the severity of winter conditions.
Hammond said overall pheasant numbers in Montana won't reach the banner years of the 1990s, but good hunting is expected in many areas.
Pheasant Oct. 11-Dec. 15
Montana pheasant hunters are in store for a welcome surprise when the season opens on Oct. 11.
"Well-timed and plentiful spring rains in many parts of the state got pheasant broods off to a good start, and in eastern Montana the birds got through the winter in pretty good shape, giving the population there a little extra boost," said Gary Hammond, FWP Wildlife Division management bureau chief.
Hammond said the dry summer wasn't a factor for pheasants this year.
"The quantity and timing of spring precipitation is more of a factor in determining the quality of the fall hunting season," Hammond said. "We look for enough early rain for good nesting cover, and not so much rain or cold that it limits the hatch."
Hammond said other factors that contribute to a good pheasant season are the amount of residual cover left from the past growing season and the severity of winter conditions.
Hammond said overall pheasant numbers in Montana won't reach the banner years of the 1990s, but good hunting is expected in many areas.
