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Article by: www.sdpheasanthunting.com

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Most tall grass fields in pheasant country are a result of federal land-retirement programs. These programs are intended to reduce crop production and combat soil erosion. These areas help local farmers by annual payments they receive, in return for a multi-year contract. These areas are ideal nesting and roosting areas for nearly all species.

The C.R.P. program is similar to the Soil Bank program which established in 1957, and continued through 1963. During this time, the soil bank program was credited with greatly improving wild pheasant numbers. Both of these federal programs are greatly needed from year to year to help many species survive the sometimes harsh Midwest winters, and cold, wet springtime.

C.R.P. fields make better pheasant habitat and pheasant hunting areas, than hay fields. They provide ideal nesting and roosting cover and, unlike hay fields, are not allowed to be mowed during nesting time. The government may grant permission to mow C.R.P. fields, however, only in cases of serve drought conditions. Then the mowed areas are baled and usually used for cattle feed.

Within two hours after sunrise, pheasants will fly out of these grassy areas, in search of a food source. They return mid to late afternoon after their feeding is complete. Spending time watching these C.R.P. fields from a vehicle can result in knowing the pheasant's schedule.

Dog work in grassy cover is best on humid or slightly damp days. This allows the scent of the pheasant to dissipate through the grasses, which is easily picked up by a hunting dog. These grassy areas can be very frustrating to a pointing dog, since the wild pheasant is more comfortable running and running, than he is holding still for a good point.

With a large group of pheasant hunters, you can drive a large grass field with-out much effort, much like a row crop field is driven. These areas of C.R.P. can be quit large, so taking long, sections at one time is necessary. Blockers should be placed at the opposite ends of the fields, and the drivers should work the grass slowly, allowing the dogs to use their noses constantly. Occasionally, you should allow your dogs to venture back behind your group, many wise ring neck pheasants will actually double back behind the group silently, hoping you will not notice.

Another effective way to hunt tall grass, especially for one or two hunters, is to start on the downwind side and follow your dog. Don't try to tell the dog where to go; allow time to work out every scent trail. Make sure, however, to work the edges, especially those adjacent to crop fields and along fence lines.

If you don't have a dog, the only real option is to hunt very, very slow. You may also want to stop periodically to make the pheasants nervous. On silent days, you may be able to hear the pheasants moving through the grass.