Utah’s 2022 pheasant and quail hunts

Many upland game and waterfowl hunts are already underway across Utah. The general-season pheasant and quail hunts open Saturday, Nov. 5. If you are planning to target either of these birds this fall, here is what you should know.

Tips for hunting pheasants

Utah’s general pheasant hunting season runs from Nov. 5 to Dec. 4. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources releases thousands of pheasants on various wildlife and waterfowl management areas and Walk-In Access properties each week during the general-season hunt. Visit the Utah Department of Natural Resources website to see the release locations across Utah for the 2022 hunts.

In general, pheasants inhabit areas with nearby fields of wheat, corn or other plants that provide feed for them. These birds easily camouflage in brush, so hunting with a well-trained dog will increase your chances of success.

The DWR will also be offering a pheasant hunting seminar for beginners on Oct. 27 from 7–8 p.m. at the DWR Springville Office. While the event is free, attendees should register for the event in advance on Eventbrite.

Tips for hunting quail

Utah’s general quail hunting season runs from Nov. 5 to Dec. 31. Hunting quail also differs in each area of the state.

Both California and Gambel’s quail are hunted using similar methods — just in different habitats. When hunting Gambel’s quail, look for Joshua trees, dry washes and draws with black brush or desert almond. California quail will occupy washes containing water and brushy cover, and will eat flowers from grasses, trees and shrubs, as well as seeds and leaves.

Youth hunts

The statewide youth pheasant hunt will take place from Oct. 29 to Nov. 3, and pheasants will be released just before the hunt. The statewide youth quail hunt will take place from Oct. 29–31. If you were 17 years of age or younger on July 31, and you’ve completed Hunter Education, you can participate in the hunt. If you haven’t yet finished Hunter Education — and you’re at least 12 years old — you still might be able to participate through Utah’s Trial Hunting program. You must also have a hunting license and follow all of the state’s upland game hunting rules.

Tips to protect against avian influenza

Avian influenza is still infecting and killing birds — both wild and domestic — throughout Utah. Although the most common wild birds impacted by the virus are typically waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors and scavengers, you should still take precautions during the pheasant and quail hunts. Following the tips in this article can help protect you and your hunting dog from avian influenza.