Thursday, July 24, 2014

The Joys Of South Dakota Pheasant Hunting

By Sharron Cantu


A micropolitan statistical area is defined as an urban center with a population of between 10,000 and 50,000 people. An example of such an area is Estelline, a fine spot for South Dakota pheasant hunting. As of the 2010 census, Estelline had a population of approximately 770 people in an area amounting to slightly less than one square mile. It doesn't take a genius to work out the population density of the town. New York City, on the other hand, is the most populous city in the United States, with an average population density of around 28,000 per square mile.

Two other great pheasant-hunting grounds in the state are Aberdeen, another micropolitan statistical area located about a two and a half hour drive northwest of Estelline, and Chamberlain, about five hours' drive southwest of Estelline. The population in Chamberlain in 2010 was just over twice that of Estelline at 2,387, while the population density is half that, at 360 per square mile. Comparatively speaking, Aberdeen is a bustling metropolis with a 2010 population of 40,600 (1,700 per square mile).

Part of the Golden Triangle of pheasant-hunting, Chamberlain is located on the Missouri River. Brood counts here have averaged close to 16 per square mile during the decade leading up to 2014. This is twice the average for the state as a whole. The area around Aberdeen has around 200,000 acres of land available to the public for tracking down these birds. Hunters here can average nearly nine birds per season in a good year.

The family name for pheasants is Phasianidae. The differences between male and female specimens are very striking. Males, in particular, are very colorful and possess pronounced wattles and long tails. These birds are highly adaptable. They adapt easily to new climates and are capable of breeding in captivity.

As a pastime, shooting Phasianidae is pleasant, not to mention great exercise. It is highly advisable to practice with your shotgun before you go out for some serious stalking. Clay pigeon, or skeet, shooting is a good way to practice aiming ahead of your target. Only shoot after your target is above human height.

There is a lot of schlepping up and down hills in this sport and you often have to trudge through marshes. Make sure your constitution is up to it. When sticking together in groups, hunters will walk in a single, horizontal, row to guard against accidentally shooting one another.

Bringing along man's best friend can enhance the entire experience. There are different breeds of dog depending on what you want them to do. If you want a dog that will point to the birds while you flush them out, then get a GSP/GWP or a Brittany. If you want the dog to flush the bird for you, get a retriever or a spaniel.

Maybe it's the fresh air, exercise and sport that draw you out into the wilds of South Dakota, but the hobby does have an additional perk; bringing home the Sunday dinner. Enjoy it roasted, taking care not to let it dry out, with juniper berries and serve with a bread sauce.




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