“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.   

####

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
North America Sportshows
HUNTING & FISHING
Articles, Tips and Information
The Backcountry Press
The country's premier daily HUNTING, FISHING & OUTDOOR news in the USA and around the globe.  Read whats happening in your neck of the woods & beyond. 
©  2020  TBC Press - All Rights Reserved                                                                                                                                                                                                   Website Design by: 




Alligator Hunting 101
  • Posted on: 06/07/21   Setting the hook on a big muskie is thrilling. Coming tight on a bull redfish is a rush. But sinking a treble hook into a 15-foot, 1,000-pound prehistoric reptile? That’s a different experience altogether. There are a lot of ways to skin a gator hunt in the Southeast. But any hunt requires careful preparation, expertise, and specialized equipment. Here’s a look at the main tactics the pros use for catching these giant reptiles...

Accomplishing the Turkey Grand Slam on a Budget
  • Posted on: 03/02/21   The National Wild Turkey Federation recognizes six different slams for wild turkeys, the most popular being the Grand Slam. To achieve a Grand Slam, a hunter must harvest the four most common subspecies of the American wild turkey (the Eastern, Merriam's, Rio Grande and Osceola). Jeff Budz of Florida has completed a Super Slam -- killing a wild turkey in each of the 49 states. He also has more Grand Slams than anyone else. Budz isn’t rich and believes everyone should take the time to get a Grand Slam, without going broke in the process. He shares his insight on how to accomplish this realistic goal... 

How to Avoid Fly-by-Night Waterfowl Hunting Operations
  • Posted on: 7/24/20   This year, many American waterfowl hunters likely won’t be able to make it to the Canadian prairie this fall due to the U.S.-Canada border shutdown. Outfitters will be operating in new locations here in the States to try and recoup some of the money they would have made up north. With more waterfowlers looking to book hunts in the Lower 48, it could be a very lucrative season for guides in the U.S. But that could also open the door to fly-by-night operations interested in lining their pockets. Most outfitters are reputable. Some aren’t so you’ll need to be on the lookout for guides who aren’t playing by the rules this fall. If you’re going to hunt with an outfitter this year, particularly a new one you don’t have a relationship with, follow these tips so you know what to watch out for... 

Tips for Catching Mid-Summer Bass
  • Posted on: 7/22/20   Because he’s from Louisiana, Bassmaster Elite angler Tyler Rivet has adapted to fishing in the heat. When the summer sun is bearing down on largemouths, fish locate cover that’s thick on the surface and swim underneath it, where the water’s cooler and more comfortable. This is when anglers need to turn to a technique called punching. When you’re looking to pick a fight with a bass through the thick stuff, consider Rivet’s tips from Outdoor Life. These tricks will not only help you get bit, but also help you get that fish to the boat once it is hooked...

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started with Hunting Waterfowl
  • Posted on: 06/26/20   Waterfowl is one of the smallest, most niche communities you can find in hunting. In many places, you will have to share wetlands with your fellow hunters and compete for birds. Some of the best days of my life have been spent waist-deep in a marsh holding a shotgun and blowing a duck call. Those days are waiting for you as well—if you stick with it. This sport, like so many others, rewards patience and hard work. The more you go, the more you learn. So, let’s get started... 

Common Mistakes Anglers Make
  • Posted on: 05/26/20   Most anglers dream of the perfect catch, but simple mistakes can prevent you from reeling in that trophy fish. Here are some things to avoid when fishing: 1) Not changing the hook - Don’t cast out with an old hook. An old, dull hook can cause frustration when fish easily unhook and swim away. Also, choose a hook appropriate for the size of fish you’re trying to catch. If the fish has a small mouth, use a small hook - like for panfish, use a size 6 or 8 hook. Next...

How to Make a Great DIY Turkey Call from a Pill Bottle
  • Posted on: 03/26/20   Turkeys are some of the hardest wild game to hunt. Sometimes it takes a different kind of turkey call to lure them in. Hunters are always looking for new and sometimes off-the-wall ways to attract game. Here is one of those things: A turkey call from a pill bottle. All you need are a few simple items and 15 minutes to make something those gobblers have never heard before.There is also a HOW to VIDEO...

Migratory Bird Laws You May Not Know -- Printer Friendly Version Available
  • Posted on: 03/26/20   This article deals with Q&A from a former duck guide, who broke migratory bird laws, and is trying to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes. The information is based on federal law. Be sure to check with state agencies to make sure you are in compliance with state law. Ryan Warden became an expert on migratory gamebird regulations in 2011 after...


Choose below for more articles