Quail season finale and Francis Marion Forest input

Capt. Todd Stamps shooting over English Setter on point

March 1 is the end of quail season on private lands, and Capt. Todd Stamps made sure to take advantage of this one last foray into the bird woods. Did you know that quail hunting preserves hold a license to hunt quail through the month of March? With the exception of cold weather, which was good for our season-ending quail hunt, March came in like a lamb with little wind and no rain. After 10.9-inches of rain in February the woods were soggy, but not enough to dampen the spirits of a willing bird dog. Most important, the wet woods did not hinder the flight of the pen-raised quail, nor did it seem to affect the scent for my English Setter. By the end of quail season the dog is in shape, the shooter's aim is sharper and the quality of the experience can be at a high level. There were memorable points, shots and misses but it was all celebrated with a grain of salt knowing the season was now complete, all the while being thankful for each intrepid moment.

Gentleman Bob sitting up on a stump and in the sunlight

Also concerning the upland sportsman is the call for public input concerning the future management of the Francis Marion National Forest. Now through April 11 the public is asked to give input about what recreational uses should be focused on in the Francis Marion. The Lowcountry Chapter of Quail Forever supports practices that improve habitat for bobwhite quail, and offers more opportunity for bird hunts in the future. Lowcountry Outdoors encourages others to give input that calls for more prescribed fire, more food plots, and attention to native species like longleaf pine trees and their ecosystem. To give input visit the Internet at US Forest Service.

Geared up for a cold weather quail hunt

To view past blog entries from season-ending quail hunts click here.

To view past blog entries about the SE quail study group click here.

Bird woods in the Francis Marion National Forest

To view past blog entries about this past quail season click here.