Embarking on your first pheasant hunting adventure is an exhilarating experience, and there’s no better place to begin than at Coyland Creek in Frederic, Wisconsin. With 610 acres of prime upland bird hunting terrain, Coyland Creek offers both novice and seasoned hunters an unforgettable experience.
Understanding Pheasant Behavior
Pheasants are known for their predictable daily routines, which can be advantageous for hunters. At first light, these birds head to areas like roadsides to find gravel or grit. By mid-morning, they move to dense cover such as wetlands or native grasses, where they remain until late afternoon. Recognizing these patterns can significantly increase your chances of a successful hunt.
Essential Gear for Pheasant Hunting
Equipping yourself with the right gear is crucial for a safe and successful hunt. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re prepared:
- Firearm: A 12 or 20-gauge shotgun is recommended. Ensure it’s in a hard-sided, locking case during transport.
- Ammunition: Both steel and lead shots are permissible at Coyland Creek.
- Clothing: Wear waterproof hunting attire suitable for layering, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. You must wear blaze orange.
- Footwear: Comfortable hunting boots paired with warm socks are vital, given the extensive walking involved.
- Safety Gear: Protective eyewear is a must to shield against potential hazards.
For those needing equipment, Shotgun Willy’s at Coyland Creek offers a range of guns, ammo, and hunting accessories to ensure you’re well-prepared.
Hunting with or without a Dog
While hunting dogs can enhance the experience by flushing out and retrieving birds, it’s not mandatory to have one. Coyland Creek provides guided hunts with experienced handlers and dogs for an additional fee, ensuring even those without canine companions can enjoy a fruitful hunt. If you do have a hunting dog, they’re welcome to join and stay with you in the lodge, making for a complete hunting experience.
Safety and Hunting Etiquette
Safety should always be the top priority during any hunting expedition. Here are some essential guidelines:
- Muzzle Awareness: Always keep your firearm’s muzzle pointed in a safe direction, preferably skyward.
- Target Confirmation: Only shoot at birds that are in clear flight and well above the ground to ensure the safety of fellow hunters and dogs.
- Communication: Maintain clear communication with your hunting party to be aware of everyone’s positions at all times.
Adhering to these practices ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Maximizing Your Experience at Coyland Creek
To fully immerse yourself in the hunting experience, consider the Hunt & Stay packages offered by Coyland Creek. These packages cater to groups, providing lodging, a set number of pheasants, bird cleaning services, rounds of sporting clays, and meals. For instance, an eight-person package includes four rooms, 100 pheasants, bird cleaning, eight rounds of clays, and two meals. Such packages offer a comprehensive and hassle-free hunting adventure.
Membership Benefits
For those planning frequent visits, Coyland Creek offers membership options with numerous perks:
- Discounted Rates: Members enjoy savings on bird releases and other services.
- Scratch Hunting Privileges: Access to hunt birds that were missed during previous hunts at a reduced rate.
Memberships are annual, expiring on August 31, and provide excellent value for avid hunters.
Plan Your Visit
Coyland Creek is open to both members and non-members, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience premier pheasant hunting in Wisconsin. Whether you’re organizing a small family hunt or a corporate retreat, the team at Coyland Creek is dedicated to providing a memorable and enjoyable experience. With a spacious 1,800-square-foot clubhouse featuring a full bar, indoor and outdoor seating areas, and recreational activities like pool and darts, your time off the field will be just as enjoyable.
Embarking on your pheasant hunting journey at Coyland Creek promises not only the thrill of the hunt but also the camaraderie and memories that come with it. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hunter, Coyland Creek offers the perfect setting to hone your skills and enjoy the great outdoors.
