Ruffed (Rough) Grouse

The hunting season has wound down and only one small game species remains open, ruffed grouse. This bird is by far and away my favorite small game for several reasons. Number one being the challenge to harvest one of these beautiful birds and number two is the excitement of having one explode out of a downed tree right out from under your feet. These birds, are about the size of a small chicken, and the sound they make beating their powerful wings can most closely be describe as a helicopter rising from the forest floor. It's heart stopping.

Grouse hunting in Kentucky centers around east and south east part of the state, in mountainous areas. I personally hunt the Daniel Boone Forest near McKee in Jackson county. The best habitat in these areas are logged out ridge tops and hollers that have a thick under growth which provides both cover and food. While this terrain makes for excellent grouse country, it in turn makes for rough hunting. Up and down these mountains, wading through briars and saplings will wear on you, and when a bird gets up, you are usually in a spot where you can barely swing a shotgun. My partner and I have come home from these hunts looking like we've been in a cat fight from the briars.

I carry a semiautomatic 12 gauge loaded with high brass # 6's or 7 1/2's. However, this gun is a little heavy to carry all day. I would prefer a 20 gauge, which is much lighter. (Maybe some day.) I believe high brass is essential. These are large birds, and dove loads just don't get the job done.

When the bird flushes, quick reaction is a must. You usually get about a 1 to 3 second window of opportunity to shoot, and then its over. A good bird dog will increase your odds significantly. The key word here is good, and a worthy grouse dog is hard to find. These birds will not hold like quail, so your dog must be a patient one, who will not rush in on a bird. I have been told a grouse dog doesn't really come into its own until about age five. I own a 3 year old Brittany, who is a little high strung. However, she did have her first point last weekend. This was to say the least, very satisfying for me to watch. Other good breeds include English setters and pointers.

The limit is four birds, but I consider getting one an excellent trip. The season ends the last day of February, so there is still time to give it a try. Its a great way to relieve cabin fever on a snowy winter's day.