Big Sky, Big Birds

If you’re looking to bag some pheasants, Montana has some. With the season kicking off in October, you’ve got plenty of time to roam the rolling prairies and river bottoms. Places like Valley and Fergus Counties are packed with birds—and thanks to Montana’s Block Management Program, even private land is fair game (with permission, of course). You can nab three pheasants a day, but be ready to work for them—those birds are sneaky, and the terrain isn’t exactly a walk in the park, depending on where you are. Gear up, bring some snacks, and enjoy the epic views while you’re at it. Oh, and don’t forget—support your local diner for a post-hunt burger. Make it a tradition to support the local businesses when you hunt/fish/trap!