CURRENT NEWS

FROM THE DAKOTAS

Midwinter Waterfowl Survey Reveals Record Numbers

South Dakota... Still Your Best Bet

The Anticipation: South Dakota Pheasant Season

SD Pheasant Prospects 2011

Wetland Conditions Favor Duck Hunters

Large Duck Flight Expected

Popular Hunting Areas Affected by Flood

See SD Guides, Outfitters

Midwinter Waterfowl Survey Reveals Record Numbers

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s annual midwinter waterfowl survey in early January showed 279,000 birds, a record high for the number of ducks and geese wintering in the state.

Mike Szymanski, migratory game bird biologist, said an estimated 90,000 Canada geese were observed on the Missouri River, and another 70,500 were scattered on Lake Sakakawea, which was completely open east of the Van Hook Arm. After summarizing the numbers, a record 190,000 geese were tallied statewide.

“This year’s survey was highly abnormal, and numbers of waterfowl within the state were probably underestimated because of the open water and lack of snow statewide,” Szymanski said. “The lack of snow cover was especially important in keeping these birds around.”

A mild, dry fall with record-setting warm temperatures kept the birds here longer than usual, Szymanski said, with snow geese remaining in the southern half of the state until early December.

In addition to the record number of geese, mallards reached an all-time high as 88,000 were counted statewide, with 31,000 on Devils Lake.

Survey conditions were generally good, Szymanski said, with record-setting high temperatures in January bringing daytime highs of 15-30 degrees above normal.

“This year’s survey results are a dramatic turnaround from the last three severe winters when less than 36,000 total waterfowl were observed statewide each year,” Szymanski said.

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South Dakota... Still Your Best Bet

By Dennis Foster

As far as Pheasants are concerned, South Dakota has more than earned the well deserved reputation of being the number one destination for not only bagging your limit, but for seeing a truly incredible amount of birds. Now, I do realize that many of you are fully aware of the harsh winter and wet spring conditions we have experienced and that a lot of you follow the annual road counts and the reduced number of birds spotted during these counts. But, as with most things, we need to dig a bit deeper to see the real truth of the matter.
First of all, the road counts can be a bit deceiving. They simply provide a “guesstimate” of the population. At best, they are far from scientific as it is impossible to know where the birds are or what they will be doing on any given day...particularly when the counts are conducted. There are several factors that can play a huge role in the amount of Pheasants actually spotted. Weather is key. A windy, blustery, or rainy day will see the birds tight into cover and not showing themselves. Conversely, a moderate windless day will see many up on the roads and visible. Probably the most important factor is the amount of standing crop along the routes. With progressively more row crop planted over the years and in full foliage at the time of the counts, it can be darn tough to get even a very rough estimate of the population. Another wild card is that many of the Hen’s nested late or even re-nested due to wet conditions, making the late and consequently smaller chicks all but impossible to spot in the tall grass (remember all the moisture) unless right in the middle of the road. As the crops mature and begin coming off, we can then more accurately gauge what is truly going on.
Regardless of the count numbers made a couple of months ago; out here in the real world where we are around the birds every day, things are much, much better than they would first appear. I would have to agree that as a whole South Dakota’s Pheasant numbers are down a bit-but consider this is only down from historic high levels. Our wild birds are notoriously resilient and always manage to survive about anything Mother Nature throws at ‘em. This is written in Mid October and with all of the Beans and a good portion of the Corn already harvested, we are once again starting to see some very encouraging numbers. This will only improve as the rest of the corn will be in the bin within a couple of weeks.
I would venture to say considering all of the facts noted above that we will see total harvest numbers in line with the last few years. This is due to the fact that there are more than enough birds to hunt, as well as not having to contend with the amount of corn that has been in the field the last couple of seasons. Thus, making the birds much easier to find and ultimately harvest. Recent rains have alleviated a very dry late summer and the dogs will also find it much easier to scent and track the birds as well.
So, in reality all is good over here in the still reigning Pheasant Capitol the World. On a very positive note, all of the doom and gloom predictions had many hunters cancel their trips, thus leaving a large amount of openings and opportunities available for those wise enough to never count South Dakota out! If you have never been here before, there is still plenty of season and birds left (runs till January 1st with later season hunts being better anyway), so considering a trip would be a very good idea. For those of you who have witnessed firsthand what we have to offer, come on back and see for yourself that things are just as good-maybe even better-than you remember.

Dennis Foster is an Outdoor Writer as well as a Fishing and Hunting Guide in South Dakota. You can learn more by visiting www.eyetimepromotions.com or calling him directly at 605-887-7069

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The Anticipation: South Dakota Pheasant Season

By Dennis Foster
In my opinion, later season hunts are far more enjoyable than the decidedly chaotic nature of the first three weeks or so after the opener. Yes, there is the anticipation and rush of going afield and popping that first rooster as you take your first few steps into some good cover. But that can also be a detriment (if you can consider it that) in that these birds-yet wild-are largely uneducated at this point and all too often, your limit may be reached and the hunt over after only the first walk or two.
This is great fun and the stuff bar-room banter is predicated on, but often over far too quickly for those of us who enjoy stretching our legs and seeing the dogs work. I personally prefer the opportunities later season excursions offer. This is due in large part to the fact that the first and largest wave of hunters is long gone and things have settled down a bit. We are no longer witnessing the sea of orange descending upon every piece of decent cover in sight. The traditional opening get together’s of family and friends of landowners have left, as have most of your “Cabela’s Cowboys.” You know the type, the guys who like to look, dress, and talk the part of a mighty hunter more than thoroughly enjoy the actual hunt. I guess that impresses the local barmaids…but I have yet to have seen that proven.
To truly experience what South Dakota has to offer, the mid to late season hunts give us an opportunity to showcase what we truly have. Although the birds have been pushed around a bit and are now wise to what is going on, great hunting can still be had and I would say even better hunting for a number of reasons.
One of the main ones is that the temperature is much more conducive to hunting…both for us and our dogs. The first week or two can be downright warm and this does not mix well with overweight and out of shape hunters and their similarly fated dogs. It can be more than just uncomfortable in the fact that it is quite common for us to see dogs literally drop after the first walk. A word of advice is to walk and work with your dogs so as to have them-and yourself-in a bit better condition and disciplined long before you cross our border. I can guarantee you this will make for a much more satisfying hunt. This is also a major cause of tension between outfitters and hunters as there is nothing worse than seeing a guy’s pride and joy not only disappoint him, but potentially screw up a hunt as well.
Another factor to consider is that the birds will begin to congregate as the weather cools and I like to stick to smaller areas of heavier cover which I leave un-touched for just this purpose. This allows for several advantages. First of all, if we use our head, we can quietly approach these patches and quickly surround them without alerting the birds for several hundred yards ahead of us as we do in a typical big area walk. The funnest and most exciting part is that as we have the birds surrounded; we can quickly push them into the center of the cover and when they do come out, there is literally an “explosion” as they rise up and away in large numbers. It’s a great way to get your heart pounding without walking a mile in order to do so.
Comfortable weather, a relaxed atmosphere, and large numbers of birds grouped into tight confines. It just does not get any better than that folks. If you have never experienced a truly 100 percent wild bird South Dakota Pheasant Hunt, this would be my recommendation.

Dennis Foster is an Outdoor Writer as well as a Fishing and Hunting Guide in South Dakota. You can learn more by visiting www.eyetimepromotions.com or calling him directly at 605-887-7069

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SD Pheasant Prospects 2011

By Dennis Foster

Despite an overly long and snowy winter, the general outlook for the numbers of Pheasants we can expect this fall looks to remain from good to downright phenomenal. I am seeing some very encouraging numbers of Hen’s with what seems to be about the right number of Roosters mixed in. So, based on my on my experience managing a Pheasant Hunting Operation and having lived my entire life where the very first successful introduction of Ringneck Pheasants into the wild occurred, I would have to say we are looking at another banner year for 2011.

Where:
Eastern South Dakota (east of the Missouri River) has been long recognized as a Mecca for Pheasants, and Hunters…as we just seem to have an environment and atmosphere that suits both. The south central portion of the state is a traditional hot spot with the Winner/Platte/Chamberlain areas always very good due to a touch milder winters. You can move north on up the line into the Redfield area (where the first Pheasants took root) and expect to see huge numbers of birds as well. If you were to want to experience a West River hunt, the Eagle Butte area would be a good bet.

When:
South Dakota’s 2011 season starts on October 15th and runs till January 1st 2012. The first couple of weeks after opening offers fine hunting, but please be aware that it is also the busiest time of the season. It may be advisable to wait until the third weekend or after to plan your hunt. Weather is typically cooler and easier on the dogs (and you), row crops harvest has generally been completed (making birds easier to find), and in general there are more opportunities for places to not only hunt-but stay-as things have slowed down. Personally, I find later season hunts to be more enjoyable.

Access:
Gaining permission to hunt private ground can still be done if you are polite and show proper respect for the privilege. Many farmers have family and friends hunting the first few weeks, so you will generally have better success once the initial rush subsides. It also doesn’t hurt to offer something in return and it doesn’t have to in the form of cash. Goodies with your local flavor are always welcomed. Cheeses, various meats, wine, etc. are appreciated and a bottle of darn good whiskey has opened many a gate as well.
There are numerous Commercial Hunting operations with most doing an excellent job providing a quality hunt and offer good value depending upon exactly what you want and are what you are willing to spend. This can range from simply paying for daily access with no guiding on good ground with plentiful birds, all the way on up to the kind of places that will only serve their dogs Perrier water and resemble Palm Springs more than the Dakota’s. To each his own…I guess.
The vast majority of these operations will fall somewhere in middle with fully guided hunts over seasoned dogs and offer other welcome amenities such as bird cleaning and lodging. Expect to spend anywhere from $100 per day for basic hunting rights into the $200 per day range for fully guided hunts and on up to “oh my god” prices for some of the more luxurious and extravagant Lodges (typically “Preserves” with pen raised birds) that cater to the well heeled and corporate crowd. Whatever your needs or desires, something can be found to suit your specific wants and needs.

Dennis Foster is an Outdoor Writer as well as a Fishing and Hunting Guide in South Dakota. You can learn more by visiting www.eyetimepromotions.com or calling him directly at 605-887-7069

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Wetland Conditions Favor Duck Hunters

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s annual fall wetland survey indicates good to excellent wetland conditions statewide for duck hunting.

Mike Szymanski, migratory game bird biologist, said hunters will need to scout because birds may be spread out with all the water and potential places to hunt.

“Most areas of the state have similar conditions to last year, with the exceptions of the northwest and southeast areas,” Szymanski said. “The number of wetlands in the northwest part of the state holding water during the survey nearly tripled from last year.  However, on the flip side, the southeast part of the state has about half as many wetlands with water in them. Nonetheless, there are still abundant opportunities for duck hunters in southeast North Dakota.”

Unfortunately, hunters wishing to venture to northwest North Dakota may have some difficulty. For various reasons, lodging in that part of the state is scarce, Szymanski said, and hunters should definitely call ahead to check the status of availability. In addition, hunters should use caution on roadways as fall can be an especially busy time of year.

Three consecutive winters with significant snowfall refilled wetlands, and considerable rainfall this past summer has maintained water levels in more temporary-type wetlands, Szymanski said. “There was some drying during a nearly three-week period without rain prior to the survey,” he added. “Immediately following the survey, much of the northern tier of the state experienced 1-4 inches of rain, refilling wetlands that were beginning to dry up.”

Soft ground conditions will greet hunters in many areas of the state, so Szymanski urges caution when driving in or across fields this fall. Moreover, there are many closed roads, and hunters may need to spend some time figuring out how to get to some of their favorite areas.

“As always, the quality of the waterfowl hunting season in North Dakota is predicated on weather conditions,” Szymanski said. “But strong reproduction for both ducks and geese, and excellent wetland conditions point toward a good fall.”

The wetland survey is conducted in mid-September just prior to the waterfowl hunting season, to provide an assessment of conditions duck hunters can expect.

Opening day for North Dakota residents is Sept. 24 for ducks, coots, mergansers and geese. Nonresidents may begin hunting waterfowl in North Dakota Oct. 1.

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Large Duck Flight Expected

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s May and July waterfowl surveys indicate hunters can expect a large fall flight similar to recent years. Opening day for North Dakota residents is Sept. 24 for ducks, coots, mergansers and geese. Nonresidents may begin hunting waterfowl in North Dakota Oct. 1.

Mike Johnson, game management section leader, said North Dakota’s fall flight – breeding ducks and the young they produce in the state – is based on data from the May breeding duck survey and the July brood survey. “This year’s production was down from last year, however, there are strong indications of an exceptional late hatch of ducks this year,” Johnson said. “Since our surveys have been completed, observers have been seeing large numbers of newly hatched ducks throughout the state.”

The brood index from the Game and Fish Department’s annual mid-July survey was down 26 percent from 2010, but was 19 percent above the long-term average. Average brood size was 7.7 ducklings, up 1.0 from last year. The long‑term average is 7.1 ducklings per brood. The water index observed during the survey was up 52 percent from last year and 105 percent above long-term.

Results from the May breeding duck survey indicated the duck index was down 9 percent from 2010, but exceeded the long-term average by 85 percent. Water conditions in May were up 31 percent from 2010 and 128 percent from the long-term average.

Resident hunters must possess a general game and habitat license and a fishing, hunting and furbearer certificate. In addition, hunters age 16 and older must have a small game license and federal duck stamp.

Nonresidents must purchase a nonresident waterfowl license, including the general game and habitat license, and certificate. Hunters age 16 and older must possess a federal duck stamp. Nonresident youth hunters from states that provide a reciprocal licensing agreement for North Dakota residents, qualify for North Dakota resident licenses. See the 2011 North Dakota Waterfowl Hunting Guide for details.

All migratory bird hunters are reminded to register with the Harvest Information Program prior to hunting. Hunters who purchase a license through the state Game and Fish Department website (gf.nd.gov) or instant licensing telephone number (800-406-6409) can easily get HIP certified.

Otherwise, hunters must call (888) 634-4798, or access the department’s website, and record the HIP number on their fishing, hunting and furbearer certificate. Those who registered to hunt the spring light goose season or the early Canada goose season in North Dakota do not have to register with HIP again, as it is required only once per year in each state hunted.

Hunters should refer to the waterfowl hunting guide for season regulations including licensing requirements, dates, bag limits, season zones and nonresident hunting zones.

Waterfowl Hunters Reminded of ANS Regulations

Waterfowl hunters are reminded to do their part in preventing the spread of aquatic nuisance species into or within North Dakota.

Waterfowl hunters must clean boats, decoys, waders and other hunting equipment before leaving a water body. Hunters must also drain water from all hunting equipment prior to leaving the water, and are encouraged to brush their hunting dogs free of mud and seeds.

Cattails, phragmites, bulrushes and terrestrial plants may be transported as camouflage on boats. All other aquatic vegetation must be cleaned from boats prior to transportation into or within North Dakota.

Detailed ANS information and prevention regulations can be found by accessing the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website at gf.nd.gov.

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Popular Hunting Areas Affected by Flood

More than half of 72,000 wildlife management area acres along the Missouri River that were once a haven for wildlife and a destination for hunters will likely be devoid of each this fall.

North Dakota Game and Fish Department biologists say nearly 40,000 acres – some of the most pristine public hunting lands in the state – have suffered from months of flooding.

Jeb Williams, wildlife resource management supervisor in Bismarck, said 15,000 acres of the Oahe Wildlife Management Area have been inundated with water, essentially making it swampland that is at least temporarily unattractive to wildlife.

“This area south of Bismarck-Mandan has been extremely popular with deer and pheasant hunters, because it provides some of the best wildlife habitat in the state,” Williams said. “But this year’s flood has changed the dynamics dramatically.”

There are 20-plus WMAs from Williston to south of Bismarck on the Missouri River System, and many were entirely or partially flooded through spring and summer.

Kent Luttschwager, wildlife resource management supervisor in Williston, said hunters will have to adapt this fall, as wildlife populations that have called the Missouri River bottoms home are now displaced because of high water.

“Lewis and Clark WMA is popular with hunters because it offers some of the most prolific wildlife habitat in the region,” Luttschwager said. “But exceptional wildlife habitat has been covered in water for several months.”

Dan Halstead, wildlife resource management supervisor in Riverdale, said the spillway channel running through Riverdale WMA near Garrison Dam was originally 30 yards wide, but is nearly 200 yards wide today.

“But this area was only covered in water for maybe a week as the water quickly made its way back into the channel,” Halstead said. Because of this, he said access is gradually coming around, and will continue to improve through September.

“We are going to have some vegetation issues, but the river bottoms in this area is in better condition than Bismarck and Williston, just because of the prolonged effects of overland flooding in those areas,” Halstead said.

While no one can predict how much property will be lost to this year’s record flood, Luttschwager said it will take time to recover.

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2011 Waterfowl Regulations Set

North Dakota’s 2011 waterfowl season has been set, with season details similar to last year. The only significant change is the elimination of two waterfowl rest area.

Opening day for North Dakota residents is Sept. 24 for ducks, geese, coots and mergansers. Nonresidents may begin hunting waterfowl in North Dakota Oct. 1.

Hunters may take six ducks per day with the following restrictions: five mallards of which two may be hens, three wood ducks, two scaup, two redheads, two pintails and one canvasback. For ducks, the possession limit is twice the daily limit.

The daily limit of five mergansers may include no more than two hooded mergansers.

The waterfowl rest area 11 miles north and three miles west of Steele in Kidder County, and four miles south and three miles east of Petersburg in Nelson County have been eliminated.

The hunting season for Canada geese in the Missouri River zone will close Dec. 30, while the remainder of the state will close Dec. 22. The season for whitefronts closes Dec. 4, while the season on light geese is open through Dec. 30. Shooting hours for all geese are one-half hour before sunrise to 1 p.m. each day through Nov. 5. Beginning Nov. 6, shooting hours are extended until 2 p.m. each day.

Extended shooting hours for all geese are permitted from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset on Saturdays and Wednesdays through Nov. 30, and on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays from Dec. 1 through the end of each season.

The daily bag limit for Canada geese during the regular season is three, with six in possession. The daily limit on whitefronts is two with four in possession, and light goose is 20 daily, with no possession limit.

The special youth waterfowl hunting season is Sept. 17-18. Legally licensed residents and nonresidents 15 years of age or younger can hunt ducks, coots, mergansers and geese statewide. Youth hunters must have a general game and habitat license and a fishing, hunting and furbearer certificate. A licensed adult at least 18 years of age must accompany the youth hunter into the field. The daily bag limit and species restrictions for the youth season are the same as for regular duck and goose seasons.

Nonresidents have the option of buying either a statewide waterfowl license or one with zone restrictions. Nonresidents who designate zones 1 or 2 may hunt that zone for only one seven-day period during the season. Nonresident hunters who chose to hunt in zone 1 or 2 and wish to use the full 14 consecutive days allowed, must use the other seven days in zone 3. Hunters in zone 3 can hunt that zone the entire 14 days.

In accordance with state law, nonresidents are not allowed to hunt on North Dakota Game and Fish Department wildlife management areas or conservation PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) areas from Oct. 8-14.

All migratory bird hunters, including waterfowl, must register with the Harvest Information Program prior to hunting. Hunters purchasing a license from the Game and Fish Department can easily get a HIP number. Otherwise, hunters must call (888) 634-4798, or log on to the Game and Fish website at gf.nd.gov, provide the registration information, and record the HIP number on their fishing, hunting and furbearer certificate. Those who HIP registered to hunt this spring’s light goose season do not have to register again, as it is required only once per year.

Hunters should refer to the 2011 North Dakota Waterfowl Hunting Guide, available in early September, for further details on the waterfowl season.

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