How to Hunt Partridge

Partridge prefer the security of a covered hiding place.

Hunting is an age-old pastime, allowing generations of family and friends to gather and bond, while bringing food home to the table. Game birds don't require as much time to hunt when compared to larger game, such as deer and elk, making them a popular hunting choice. Partridge hunting, depending on where you live, can be done in an afternoon and, since they are faster to clean than larger game, can be eaten for dinner the same night.

Things You'll Need

• Shotgun or rifle
• Bullets
• Reflective hunting vest
• Hunting dog
• Hunting license
• Map
• Hunting regulations

Instructions

1. Gather your equipment, including a shotgun or rifle and bullets, along with a reflective vest and a hunting license for your area. A trained hunting dog is helpful, but not necessary for a successful hunt.

2. Find a location on your map to go hunting. Look for an area near a field, meadow or wooded area. The area must be open to hunting if it is public land, or you must have permission to hunt from the owner if it is private land.

3. Travel to your hunting location during hunting season, which is generally during the fall. Check your local Fish and Wildlife hunting regulations for the times of day you are allowed to hunt; most municipalities require that you hunt during daylight hours.

4. Send your dog out, if you are hunting with one, to flush or point out the birds, depending on whether he is a pointer or a retriever. A trained dog will cover an area quickly, finding the partridge by tracking their scent. Follow the dog, keeping him in your sights, so you don't accidentally shoot him.

5. Walk slowly through brushy areas along fence-lines, and in places where the cover is at least 12 inches high at your hunting site, to attempt to flush the partridge out, or scare them into flying away. Walk in a zig-zag pattern between brush, and move from the bottom of a hill to the top to flush the birds out easier. Aim at the birds and shoot at them when they fly away; do not shoot in the direction of another person.

Tips & Warnings

• Know where your fellow hunters and hunting dogs are at all times. Never shoot in their direction, even if you see a partridge.

• Use extreme caution when carrying and firing your gun.

References

• Castle Valley Outdoors: The Upland Bird Hunters Library - Partridge Hunting Techniques
• HuntWashingtonState.com: General Upland Bird Tips
• Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife: Oregon: Getting Started Upland Bird Hunting
• Hunting Trips R Us: Partridge Hunting Guides and Outfitters: Trips and Guided Hunts