Monday, July 28, 2014

Tips For South Dakota Pheasant Hunting

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By Sharron Cantu


A micropolitan statistical area is defined as an urban center with a population of between 10,000 and 50,000 people. An example of such an area is Estelline, a fine spot for South Dakota pheasant hunting. As of the 2010 census, Estelline had a population of approximately 770 people in an area amounting to slightly less than one square mile. It doesn't take a genius to work out the population density of the town. New York City, on the other hand, is the most populous city in the United States, with an average population density of around 28,000 per square mile.

Other popular hunting grounds in the state include Chamberlain, which is roughly a five-hour drive to the southwest of Estelline; and Aberdeen, two or three hours' drive to the northwest of Estelline. Like Estelline, Aberdeen is a micropolitan statistical area. There were around 40,600 residents in Aberdeen as at the 2010 census; this equates to 1,700 per square mile). In terms of population, Chamberlain is twice as large as Estelline with a population of 2,387. Here, they appear to be more broadly spread out than the people in Estelline; Chamberlain has a population density of only 360 per square mile.

Situated on the Missouri River, Chamberlain forms part of what is known as the Golden Triangle among pheasant-hunters. The average brood counts in the area can reach 16/square mile, twice the statewide mean. Around Aberdeen, the hunter has access to approximately 200,000 acres within which to pursue his or her sport. Here, the average yield per hunter can reach nine per season.

Sexual dimorphism refers to a feature of animal species in which the male is more flamboyantly turned out than the female of the species. Among the family Phasianidae, this is particularly pronounced. The males in this group are adorned with bright colors, wattles and long tails. They adapt quickly to new environments and are able to breed in captivity.

While a lot of fun, gathering Phasianidae for the dinner table is fabulous exercise. Experts recommend familiarizing yourself with your shotgun before you venture into the wilderness. Practicing with clay pigeons should give you plenty of confidence. While going to the local dump and shooting pigeons is not without its emotional gratification, this is often frowned upon by local authorities.

There is a lot of schlepping up and down hills in this sport and you often have to trudge through marshes. Make sure your constitution is up to it. When sticking together in groups, hunters will walk in a single, horizontal, row to guard against accidentally shooting one another.

Bringing along man's best friend can enhance the entire experience. There are different breeds of dog depending on what you want them to do. If you want a dog that will point to the birds while you flush them out, then get a GSP/GWP or a Brittany. If you want the dog to flush the bird for you, get a retriever or a spaniel.

An added benefit to spending the day in the wilderness and wearing yourself out is being able to take your catch home and feed the family, like the hunter-gatherers of yesteryear. Try it roasted in juniper berries and serve a bread sauce alongside. Do be careful not to let the bird dry out.




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