ODFW Season: Oct 6, 2018– Jan 31, 2019; Daily Bag Limit:8 (24 in Possession)
Upland game bird hunting is a popular activity in Central Oregon. One of the most common game birds is the chukar, a type of partridge that can be found on the steep, rocky slopes of the Deschutes River valley. Both the Chukar and its food source, cheat grass, were introduced to Oregon in the 1950s. Since then, the bird population has flourished in the Oregon high desert.
The birds’ preference for treacherously sloped habitats makes them among the most difficult game birds to hunt. “They have the disconcerting habit of running uphill, usually faster than a hunter can follow, and they fly downhill at hissing speed.” To increase your chances of bagging these birds, try approaching them from uphill or from a contour and go with a trained birddog.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) also suggests bringing the following:
- Good, sturdy boots
- Plenty of bottled water
- Sufficient food and shells for the day
- Binoculars
Hunters can search for chukar (and pheasants) on both private preserves and public (BLM) land. We recommend booking a hunt with Sage Canyon Outfitters to ensure the best time and increase your chances of bagging this elusive bird.
Additional hunting hints & tips: https://myodfw.com/articles/how-hunt-upland-game-birds
Oregon Game Bird Seasons http://www.eregulations.com/oregon/game-bird/game-bird-seasons/
2018-2019 Game Bird Shooting Hours: https://myodfw.com/articles/2018-19-game-bird-shooting-hours
Lower Deschutes Wildlife Areas Map: https://www.dfw.state.or.us/maps/wildlife_areas/lower_deschutes_features_ownership.pdf
Imperial River Company, Maupin OR
Lodging and Rafting on the Lower Deschutes River
https://deschutesriver.com/
irc@deschutesriver.com