When is the best time to hunt ruffed grouse?
The best time to hunt ruffed grouse is in the fall, from mid-September through November. This coincides with their mating season when they are most active. The males will be drumming and displaying which makes them easier to locate. Cooler temperatures also keep scent down and birds holding tighter to cover.
Where should I look for ruffed grouse?
Ruffed grouse prefer early successional forests with a mix of Aspen, Birch, Cherry, and other deciduous trees. Look for areas with dense undergrowth that provides food and cover. Clear cuts, logging roads, overgrown farmland, and forest edges are prime ruffed grouse habitat. Focus on slopes, ridges, gullies, and riparian areas.
What signs should I look for?
Here are some signs to look for that indicate the presence of ruffed grouse in an area:
- Drumming logs – Male grouse will stand on fallen logs and rapidly beat their wings to make a drumming sound. Look for logs with wingbeat marks.
- Feather spots – Tufts of feathers left behind when grouse burst into flight.
- Droppings – Oblong, greenish droppings often found on logs.
- Dusting sites – Sandy bare patches where grouse roll and fluff their feathers.
- Tracks – Look for their distinctive three-toed print with pectinate middle toes.
What equipment and gear do I need?
Here is a list of essential gear for ruffed grouse hunting:
- Shotgun – A 20 or 28 gauge shotgun with an improved cylinder or modified choke.
- Shot – No. 6, 7 1⁄2, or 8 shot. Larger shot for early season, smaller late.
- Clothing – Camo or earth tone clothes to blend into the forest.
- Boots – Knee high rubber boots for warmth and protection.
- Vest – Shooting vest to carry shells and small gear.
- Hat – Brown or camo baseball cap.
- Facemask – Camo facemask to conceal facial movement.
- Cooler – For keeping birds cool after harvest.
- Dog – A pointing breed like a setter, pointer or flusher.
Other useful items include hunting knife, binoculars, GPS, compass, bug spray, first aid kit, and blaze orange for visibility.
How should I hunt ruffed grouse?
Here are some effective tactics for hunting ruffed grouse:
- Walk slowly and quietly through their habitat, stopping frequently to look and listen.
- Follow game trails looking ahead for movement and signs.
- Use a dog to help locate and pin birds.
- Watch for flush and get gun up quickly, ruffed grouse burst fast!
- Safety on until ready to shoot!
- Take high percentage shots on birds in range.
- Mark downed birds immediately and watch for runners.
- Attempt to circle around the bird and flush again if missed.
- Be ready for shots in any direction, grouse are very erratic fliers.
Still hunting is the most common method, but other techniques like driving and flushing can also be effective. Hunt early morning and late afternoon when grouse are most active. Keep noise to a minimum and watch your scent. Ruffed grouse hold incredibly tight if not alarmed.
What is the daily bag limit?
The statewide daily bag limit for ruffed grouse is 2 birds per day in most states. Be sure to consult current regulations. Some states allow additional birds in the bag limit during peak season such as Minnesota which allows 5 per day. Hunt safely and ethically, only harvest what you can properly care for and consume.
How should I clean and care for harvested ruffed grouse?
Here are some tips for cleaning and caring for harvested ruffed grouse:
- Field dress immediately and remove entrails.
- Pluck feathers or skin the bird.
- Wash thoroughly in cold water.
- Dry with paper towels.
- Place in a cooler with ice.
- Aging the meat 1-3 days improves tenderness.
- Store in refrigerator 1-2 days or freeze in air tight bags for longer storage.
Take care of your harvested birds quickly to maintain quality. Grouse can be prepared similar to chicken or turkey. They are excellent pan-fried, baked, or in stews and soups. Be sure to remove any residual shot during preparation.
What are some favorite ruffed grouse recipes?
Here are 3 delicious recipes for your ruffed grouse harvest:
Baked Ruffed Grouse
- Season grouse with salt, pepper, thyme, and brush with butter.
- Place on rack in baking dish and bake at 400F for 30-40 minutes until 165F.
- Baste frequently with pan juices.
Ruffed Grouse Fajitas
- Slice grouse breast into strips.
- Sauté strips in olive oil with onions and bell peppers.
- Add fajita seasoning and serve in warm tortillas.
Ruffed Grouse Soup
- Simmer grouse carcass and vegetables into a stock.
- Shred and add grouse meat.
- Finish with heavy cream and sherry.
Experiment with marinades, spice rubs, stuffing, and smoking for endless variation. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Conclusion
Ruffed grouse are a popular and rewarding upland game bird to pursue in the fall. Their habitat and signs are easy to identify if you know what to look for. Proper preparation and equipment will lead to success. Still hunting and an aid like a good bird dog are great methods to locate them. Care for your harvest properly and cook thoroughly. The sweet, delicate meat of the ruffed grouse is well worth the effort. Now get out there and match wits with the king of the forest! Good luck this season!
