Advice on grouse hunting western NC

RobGSP · Post by **RobGSP** » Sun Jul 01, 2012 9:10 pm

Hi folks,

Any advice on areas to grouse hunt the NC mtns. I went to school in the SW part of the state and know the area west of Asheville to Jackson county. I have also spent time turkey hunting and trout fishing in Wilkes Co.
I have not grouse hunted before but would like to start. Any advice on areas to visit would be appreciated.

Additionally, my dog has only quail hunted so far. Any advice on preparing him for hunting grouse would be helpful as well.

Mountaineer · Post by **Mountaineer** » Tue Jul 03, 2012 11:50 am

The basic info for anywhere in the central to southern Apps. is much the same.
Look for early successional and walk....and hydration.
The last hour or two is often prime....think coves and food.
Grouse make grouse dogs and ones that search out a mite, since the grouse are scarce, will often work the best in this region, depends upon many factors tho...but holding the birds is often what makes a grouse dog.
I would also be judicious in when you hunt and what your affect is upon the birds...whether you kill any or not.
Actually, I would suggest heading Up Nort to hunt grouse or to get your dog some experience.
Less than a bird/hour is reason to consider not hunting and a bird/2 hours is dam good reason to not hunt at all.
But, it's legal...so give 'er a go.

northern cajun · Post by **northern cajun** » Tue Jul 03, 2012 3:07 pm

Go north to PA.

Luminary Setters · Post by **Luminary Setters** » Wed Jul 04, 2012 4:01 pm

Contact the Franklin, NC chapter of the RGS. Good guys that can help you and your dog get on some birds.

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