PINE FORESTRY
Another important habitat for 
pheasants is pine forestry, which 
is now widespread throughout 
the country, and it offers a great 
domain for upland birds that has 
helped increase bird populations 
for hunters.  Pines, when young, 
are the best places to hunt as when 
you put up birds you have easier 
targets compared to fully mature 
trees which hinder success.
Once mature pine blocks have 
been harvested in summer and with 
leftover slash that has been left 
behind, the inkweed growth will 
explode, and pheasants will move 
in to exploit the berries which ripen 
in late autumn.  Finding these spots 
is key to good shooting and getting 
to know some of your local forestry 
workers is a promising idea to get 
intel before the season starts.  Most 
forestry blocks allow for hunting, and 
you just need to apply for a permit 
for access.  Always respect the rules, 
never light fires or even smoke in 
the forestry and always shut gates!
The best time to hunt forestry 
blocks is early in the morning 
and walk the metal roads as the 
sun starts to rise.  Pheasant will 
come out to warm up and seek 
the small grit before heading off 
to feed until about midday, before 
returning to thick scrub to roost up 
for a siesta.  They will then wake 
and come out for a late afternoon 
stroll and feed before returning 
to their roots for the night.
Mornings and afternoons are the 
best times for pheasant hunting 
and if it has been raining hard 
and then you get a sunny break, 
this is a good time to head out 
to your hunting blocks and walk 
with your dog.  Pheasant hunting 
is always a challenge, these 
cunning birds will often outfox 
you and your dog and so when 
you finally shoot one, you will 
only want to get back out walking 
the countryside to bag another 
royal bird, "Long live the King!"
The cock pheasant can be hunted 
up to August in most regions, giving 
hunters a longer season than ducks.
 /FISHINGINGODZONE  71

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