“Our added winter moisture and active calling period led to a very long nesting and hatching season, starting in late April and extending into early summer, with chicks hatching as late as early July,” O’Dell said. “From a population standpoint, we are out of a deficit for the first time since 2001-2002. Quail are starting to pop up in places they haven’t been seen in a while.
“If you’ve never had the chance to experience what Arizona quail hunting built its name on, then this would be the year to get out and enjoy it.”
Meanwhile, hunters should note that the season for Mearns’ quail doesn’t begin until Dec. 4. It’s summer rainfall that plays a key role in nesting success and population numbers of this species. After a spotty and relatively weak monsoon across southern Arizona, these birds are likely to be abundant only in pockets that received sufficient precipitation this summer.
A valid Arizona hunting or combination hunt and fish license is required for all hunters 10 and older. Those hunters under 10 must either have a valid hunting or combination hunt and fish license, or be accompanied by an adult who possesses a valid hunting or combination hunt and fish license. Licenses can be purchased online or at license dealers statewide. A youth combination hunt and fish license (ages 10 to 17) is $5.
The general bag limit is 15 quail per day in the aggregate, of which no more than eight may be Mearns’ quail (when the Mearns’ season opens Dec. 4). The general possession limit is 45 quail in the aggregate after opening day, of which no more than 15 Gambel’s, scaled or California quail in the aggregate may be taken in any one day. After the opening of the Mearns’ season, the 45-quail possession limit may include 24 Mearns’ quail, of which no more than eight may be taken in any one day.
More quail-hunting information can be found on the department’s website at https://www.azgfd.com/Hunting/. Another resource for both new and experienced hunters alike is “An Introduction to Hunting Arizona’s Small Game.” Written by Randall D. Babb, the 196-page, full-color book covers where and how to hunt small game birds (like quail), squirrels, rabbits, ducks and geese. It also includes how to prepare and cook your harvest, with illustrations and recipes. The book can be ordered for $16.95 at www.azgfd.gov/publications.
Finally, hunters should check out O’Dell’s techniques for field-dressing quail at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gRwZAcWzzk.
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Publishers Notes: OUT OF STATE HUNTERS, FISHERMEN & OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS; Due to the Covid 19 pandemic, there could be limitations for OUT of STATE hunters, fishermen and other outdoor enthusiasts to include a 14-day quarantine requirement or negative COVID-19 testing alternative. Please check with the State's Department of Natural Resources BEFORE you travel or apply for the 2020 Fall Hunts.
Disclaimer: The views expressed on this site are that of the authors and not necessarily that of TBC Press
Apply by June 20 for Alaska 2021 Special Raffle for Bear Viewing on McNeil River
Submitted by: TBC Press
Posted on: 06/07/21
The Backcountry Press
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News # 14393
Viewing the world’s largest congregation of brown bears at McNeil River continues to be a highly sought-after privilege, with over 1,100 hopeful applicants vying for the few coveted permits issued by lottery each summer. The 2021 season lottery has concluded, and all permits have been issued; however, to provide an additional opportunity and to raise funds to help support ADF&G’s programs, two permits are being offered through a raffle conducted by OHFA.
One winner will be selected and entitled to assign the two permits to whomever they wish (certain limitations will apply). The permit holders will also be provided lodging in Homer, Alaska, and seaplane transportation to the sanctuary.
Deadline to purchase tickets is June 20, 2021. Further information and online ticket purchases are available at OHFA’s website at www.OHFAK.org. Individual raffle tickets cost $20, or 6 for $100, and 40 for $500.
Revenue generated from this raffle will help support wildlife conservation including projects in Alaska state sanctuaries and refuges, and education in outdoor traditions.
Image courtesy of wikipedia
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The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) and the Outdoor Heritage Foundation of Alaska (OHFA), the department’s official non-profit partner organization, announce a special raffle for anyone wishing to visit the McNeil River State Game Sanctuary this summer.
The McNeil River sanctuary is located approximately 100 miles west of Homer on the Alaska Peninsula. Upwards of 144 individual brown bears have been documented feeding on the sanctuary’s tide flats and salmon streams during summer with as many as 74 bears observed at one time. The Alaska State Legislature set this area aside in 1968 to protect these valuable resources. The ADF&G working with the Alaska Board of Game manages public access to the sanctuary to assure these wildlife resources are protected in perpetuity and to assure a quality experience for those that are able to visit.
