For avid upland hunters, few experiences match the excitement of flushing a pheasant from thick cover and taking the perfect shot. Pheasants thrive in specific regions of the United States, where a mix of agriculture, grasslands, and conservation efforts create ideal hunting conditions. If you’re looking for the best places to hunt pheasants, here are the top destinations and why they stand out.

South Dakota – The Pheasant Hunting Capital

South Dakota is synonymous with pheasant hunting. With a combination of vast grasslands, well-managed public lands, and an abundance of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) fields, the state consistently boasts the highest pheasant populations in the country. Hunters flock to areas like Mitchell, Aberdeen, and Pierre, where both public and private lands offer exceptional hunting opportunities. South Dakota’s long hunting season and generous bag limits make it a must-visit for any serious pheasant hunter.

North Dakota – Wild and Untamed Hunting

North Dakota offers a more rugged and less crowded hunting experience. The state has a mix of agricultural lands, wetlands, and prairie fields that provide excellent pheasant habitat. The western and central regions, particularly around Bismarck and Dickinson, are prime hunting grounds. The state’s PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) program gives hunters access to thousands of acres of private land, making North Dakota a great destination for DIY hunters.

Kansas – Long Season, Great Habitat

Kansas is often overlooked, but it’s a hidden gem for pheasant hunters. The state’s expansive fields of wheat, sorghum, and CRP grasslands create prime conditions for pheasants to thrive. The western part of the state, especially near Dodge City and Hays, holds some of the best bird numbers. With a hunting season that extends into January, Kansas offers late-season opportunities when other states have closed their seasons.

Nebraska – A Mix of Public and Private Lands

Nebraska’s blend of farmland, grasslands, and river-bottom habitats make it a solid choice for pheasant hunters. The state’s Walk-In Hunting Access program allows hunters to access private lands without the need for special permission, opening up thousands of acres for hunting. The best hunting can be found in the southwest and central parts of the state, where mild winters and quality habitat support strong pheasant populations.

Iowa – Pheasant Hunting Revival

Iowa has made a strong comeback as a pheasant hunting destination, thanks to conservation efforts and habitat restoration. The northwest and central regions of the state, including areas around Storm Lake and Mason City, offer excellent hunting. With a mix of public wildlife management areas and private lands enrolled in the Iowa Habitat and Access Program, hunters have plenty of ground to explore.

Each of these states offers unique advantages for pheasant hunters, from vast public access lands to carefully managed private fields. Whether you’re looking for the highest bird numbers, rugged landscapes, or late-season hunting opportunities, the USA has a pheasant hunting destination for you. Grab your shotgun, train your bird dog, and get ready for an unforgettable upland adventure!