child holding grouse*Photos courtesy of Jason Mitchell Outdoors. 

As fall sweeps across the Northern Plains, hunters in the Lake Region, are gearing up for an incredible hunting season. While the area is widely known for its world-class waterfowl hunting, upland hunters are in for a treat this year with some of the best conditions seen in recent memory. If you’ve ever dreamed of a multi-species hunt, now is the time to plan your trip! 

A Thriving Sharp-tail Grouse Population
The expansive prairies surrounding Devils Lake are home to a robust population of sharp-tail grouse, offering hunters the perfect opportunity to pursue this iconic upland bird. The open landscapes make for an exciting challenge, and sharp-tails are known for their fast flight and unpredictable flushes. Whether you're a seasoned upland hunter or new to the sport, chasing sharp-tails across the prairie promises excitement and plenty of action.

Rising Pheasant Numbers
In addition to a thriving grouse population, the Lake Region has seen a steady increase in pheasant numbers, thanks to favorable weather and habitat conditions. The combination of healthy grasslands, abundant food sources, and cover has created an ideal environment for pheasants to thrive. Hunters can expect to find these birds throughout the region, particularly in areas with dense cover like cattails.


Public and PLOTS Land: Opportunities for All three men upland game hunting
One of the great advantages of hunting in the Devils Lake region is the vast amount of public land available for upland hunting. In addition to state-owned wildlife management areas, the Private Land Open To Sportsmen (PLOTS) program provides access to private lands enrolled for public hunting. With thousands of acres open to the public, hunters are sure to find prime habitat for both sharp-tails and pheasants.

 

Plan Your Multi-Species Hunt
Why limit yourself to just one species? The Lake Region offers a unique opportunity to combine waterfowl and upland hunting in one unforgettable trip. Mornings spent in the duck blinds can easily be followed by an afternoon trekking through the prairies in pursuit of sharp-tails and pheasants. With the current healthy bird populations and access to diverse hunting grounds, this year promises a fall full of adventure for hunters of all types.

Make the most of this season—pack your gear, grab your shotgun, and head to Devils Lake for a multi-species hunting adventure that you’ll remember for years to come!

Experience waterfowl hunting like a local by hiring one of our guide services!