By Jarret Warner
After a hard days work in the field hunting Whitetail�s, I returned to the truck. With my head bowed in exhaustion from hauling my carcass half way around the countryside, and with nothing to show for it, a Ruffie awoke at my feet. As I slid to a stop, a second, then a third, and finally a forth rocketed skyward from the thorny rose bushes. I shook my head in disgust. I mean here I was deer hunting in the bitter cold with no results and meanwhile grouse were springing up all around me! With renewed enthusiasm I hustled over to my Dads truck to find my good ol�12 gauge waiting for me. Half an hour later I had dropped my first Ruffie... I was hooked. If you are going after grouse this fall there are a few things you should keep in mind!
Tactics
There�s an old saying "Grouse live where ya find them". Grouse habitat covers much of Canada and the U.S. How to find them you ask? Well there is no reason to go through the thick bush... as it is very difficult walking and you will rarely get a good clean shot at a flushing bird. You stick to the edges, try to pause frequently, particularly adjacent to thick cover, as this behaviour makes the birds nervous. Ruffies are often unnerved but this stopping and going. Using this method a hunter will get more opportunities at birds that would otherwise hold tight. Two man parties should work small patches of cover, as they are the easiest to hunt thoroughly. Try taking turns sending one person into the thick of it while to other one stands on the outside waiting to swing on flushing birds.
Guns and loads
Ruffed grouse are easily killed birds at anytime of the year, they only need a couple of pellets to put then down for good. Many suggest going to a 20 gauge in 7 � or 8 shot which is a good choice, as it is light and fast to the shoulder. Flushing game are difficult targets for even the best of shooters, therefore some believe that a larger load of pellets such as #5 or #6 in a 12 gauge shell, provides a distinct advantage to most shooters.
Clothing
If you hope to spend long days afield, proper clothing is essential. To be the most comfortable you should get a good under layer made from a material whose primary function is to wick moisture away from your body. Then a pair of warm pants or overalls, followed by a durable jacket and a hunting vest. Remember layers are key to a long comfortable day in the field!
Grouse hunting offers a whole world of opportunities to upland bird hunters, If you are heading out this season be sure to stay safe and have fun. I wish you all the best this season. Happy hunting!
By Jarrett Warner
Sources from Ken Bailey, Alberta Guide to Hunting Regulations.
