Top 10 States for Pheasant Hunting in the U.S.

If you’re searching for the best pheasant hunting states in America, you’re in the right place. Pheasant hunting is one of the most exciting upland pursuits, and while bird numbers vary from year to year, certain states consistently rank as the top pheasant hunting destinations. From South Dakota’s legendary fields to Nebraska’s public access programs, these states offer hunters some of the finest opportunities in the country.

Here are the top 10 states for pheasant hunting and what makes each one worth the trip.

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1. South Dakota – The Pheasant Hunting Capital

South Dakota stands at the very top of any list of best pheasant hunting states. Known as the “Pheasant Capital of the World,” it produces more birds and draws more hunters than anywhere else in the U.S. With abundant grasslands, cornfields, and CRP acres, the state supports incredible bird numbers year after year. Popular areas include Aberdeen, Mitchell, and Pierre.

Best For: High bird densities, public and private guided hunts, and a true pheasant hunting tradition.

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2. North Dakota

North Dakota offers hunters a mix of wide-open spaces and excellent bird numbers. The southwestern region is particularly strong, with prime habitat in crop stubble, shelterbelts, and grasslands. Thanks to the state’s Private Lands Open To Sportsmen (PLOTS) program, hunters can enjoy thousands of acres of access.

Best For: DIY pheasant hunters who want access to quality public land.

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3. Iowa

Once known as one of the best pheasant states in the country, Iowa’s bird numbers are climbing again thanks to habitat restoration. Northern and northwestern Iowa provide some of the most reliable hunting opportunities. With a solid access program in place, Iowa is regaining its spot as a top pheasant hunting destination in the Midwest.

Best For: Hunters looking for classic Midwest pheasant hunts close to home.

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4. Minnesota

Minnesota’s western and southwestern counties are prime pheasant hunting areas, especially with the abundance of Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and Walk-In Access lands. These regions consistently hold good bird numbers, making Minnesota one of the best pheasant hunting states for public land opportunities.

Best For: Public land hunters who want strong access options.

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5. Nebraska

Nebraska combines strong pheasant hunting with opportunities for quail. The southwest and panhandle regions hold the best populations, supported by the state’s Open Fields and Waters program. This makes Nebraska an underrated but highly rewarding choice for upland bird hunting trips.

Best For: Hunters who want to chase both pheasants and quail in the same trip.

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6. Kansas

Kansas consistently ranks among the best states for pheasant hunting. North-central and northwestern Kansas provide the highest bird densities, and the Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) program adds millions of acres for hunters to explore.

Best For: Access to huge tracts of private farmland open to the public.

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7. Montana

Montana offers a different style of pheasant hunting, with its northeastern prairies and river valleys producing healthy populations. While bird numbers per acre aren’t as high as in South Dakota, the scenery and vast landscapes make it one of the most unique pheasant hunting states.

Best For: Hunters looking for wide-open country and a Western hunting experience.

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8. Colorado

Northeastern Colorado provides the state’s best pheasant hunting, particularly in areas with irrigated agriculture and CRP fields. Colorado’s Walk-In Access Program ensures hunters can pursue pheasants across productive private farmlands.

Best For: Combining pheasant hunting with a Colorado adventure trip.

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9. Illinois

Northern and central Illinois offer solid pheasant hunting, with habitat programs supporting bird populations. While opportunities aren’t as vast as the Plains states, Illinois remains one of the best pheasant hunting destinations in the Midwest.

Best For: Midwestern hunters seeking accessible day trips.

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10. Wisconsin

Wisconsin rounds out the list with a mix of wild and released pheasant hunting. The southern and western regions provide the most productive opportunities, especially on state-managed lands.

Best For: Hunters who want reliable access and a mix of wild and stocked birds.

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Final Thoughts: Where to Hunt Pheasants in the U.S.

If you’re planning your next trip and wondering where to hunt pheasants in the U.S., these 10 states offer the best opportunities. From the world-class fields of South Dakota to underrated gems like Nebraska and Colorado, each state provides something unique for upland hunters.

Whether you’re looking for public land pheasant hunting or guided private land hunts, these states deliver world-class experiences for every skill level.

South Dakota adds 30,000 acres to hunting land

Joshua Haiar - Pheasants Forever has enrolled a new landowner in its Public Access to Habitat (PATH) program that will open nearly 30,000 new acres of private land to public hunting and recreation in northwestern South Dakota.

Pheasants Forever is a nonprofit conservation group that works to improve habitat and expand public access to hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts. The group’s Ziebach County project is the largest single enrollment of the PATH initiative, which launched in South Dakota and Nebraska in 2023. 

With this addition, the program has opened 62,581 acres of privately owned land to public access across South Dakota through 59 contracts in 31 counties.

Acres enrolled in South Dakota’s Walk-In Area program can be found on Game, Fish and Parks’ Public Hunting Atlas.

Read the full Aberdeen News article

 

Wisconsin 2025 Pheasant Survey count up 30% from 2024

WI 2025 Spring Pheasant Survey

The DNR reported the 2025 average pheasant observations at 0.81 pheasants per stop, an increase from 2024 at 0.62 pheasants per stop. For the second year in a row, the count remains above the most recent five-year average (0.52 pheasants per stop).

DNR wildlife biologists use a measurement known as an abundance index to assess the state's wild pheasant population each year. On trend from past years, abundance was highest in the northwestern part of Wisconsin's pheasant range and lowest in the east-central region.

The DNR thanks the agencies and groups that helped collect data via roadside surveys. For more information regarding pheasant hunting and management, visit the DNR's Pheasant Hunting and Management webpage.

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES


Spring Ring-Necked Pheasant Survey
2025


By Chris Pollentier, Taylor Finger, Jes Rees Lohr, and Paul Frater


Abstract
Eighty-one of 83 spring ring-necked pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) survey routes were completed in 2025. The average number of pheasants recorded during the 6-minute survey at each stop was 0.81 pheasants/stop, which was an increase over 2024 (0.62 pheasants/stop) and was above the 5-year average from 2019–2024 (0.52 pheasants/stop). 

The estimated statewide abundance index was 1,115 roosters in 2025 and was higher than the 2024 abundance index of 852 roosters.  Abundance
indices remained highest in the northwestern counties compared to counties in east-central and southern Wisconsin.


Results


Trend analysis – In 2025, 81 of 83 (97.6%) pheasant survey routes throughout the state were completed during the spring survey period. The average number of pheasants recorded during each 6-minute survey stop in 2025 was 0.81 pheasants/stop (SE =
0.05) and was greater than results from 2024 (0.62 pheasants/stop, SE = 0.04; Table 1).


The statewide average number of pheasants per stop in 2025 was 55% higher than the 5-year average of 0.52 pheasants/stop from 2019–2024 (95% CI = 0.49–0.55; Figure 2).


Detection rates and abundance estimates – Probability of detection varied among regions of the state, ranging from 75.4% to 92.2% (Table 2).Estimated pheasant 
abundance indices along survey routes were highest in the northwest portion of the state and lowest in east-central Wisconsin (Table 2). The statewide pheasant abundance index derived from the 2025 survey was 1,115 roosters (95% CI = 1,075.5–
1,171.2) and was greater than the 2024 survey estimate of 852 roosters (95% CI = 830.8–879.7; Table 3). 

Statistical modeling at the statewide scale indicated that pheasant detectability varied across regions and was most influenced by stop number and noise disturbance. Pheasants were encountered more often in Region 1 (northwest Wisconsin) compared to other regions of the state and were most likely to be detected early in the morning nearest to sunrise (i.e., during the first 5 stops of a
route) and absent any noise interference (i.e., passing vehicles). At the regional scale, stop number and noise disturbance influenced detection of pheasants in Region 1. In Region 2, stop number and wind speed (i.e., pheasants were better detected when there was little to no wind) influenced pheasant detection probability. And in Region
3, stop number and sky conditions (i.e., lesser amounts of cloud cover) had the most impact on pheasant detection probability. 

Read the full study

North Dakota 2025 spring pheasant crowing count survey up 6%

“We basically have had two really easy winters, especially for North Dakota standards, with not much snow and really nice temperatures,” said RJ Gross, Department upland game management biologist.

The primary regions holding pheasants showed 31.1 crows per stop in the southwest, up from 28.8 in 2024; 21.3 crows per stop in the northwest, down from 21.5; and 18.6 crows per stop in the southeast, up from 16.2. The count in the northeast, which is not a primary region for pheasants, was 6.5 crows per stop, up from 5 last year.

Barring untimely heavy rains, cool weather or hail, Gross expects more good news as the peak of the pheasant hatch is upon us.

“Entering the nesting season, residual grass cover looked good,” Gross said. “The timely May rains caused increased growth in nesting and brood rearing cover across the state. Combined with high overwinter survival the past two years and near ideal nesting habitat conditions, things are looking good for upland birds in portions of North Dakota.”

Pheasant crowing counts are conducted each spring throughout North Dakota. Observers drive specified 20-mile routes, stopping at predetermined intervals, and counting the number of roosters heard crowing over a 2-minute period.

The number of pheasant crows heard is compared to previous years’ data, providing a trend summary.

Watch the spring pheasant crowing count webcast with R.J. Gross.

South Dakota 2024 Pheasant Season Harvest Highest in Over a Decade

Pierre, S.D. - The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) today announced the 2024 pheasant season harvest numbers. Over 1.3 million roosters were harvested across the 2024 season, which is the highest harvest in 13 years. An additional 380,000 pheasants were also harvested by hunters within a defined private shooting preserve.

"The 2024 South Dakota pheasant season was absolutely spectacular," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "Hunters come from across the world to enjoy South Dakota's pheasant season because they know they are going to find, and harvest birds, which makes South Dakota truly the greatest state to pheasant hunt.” 

This claim is supported by these harvest numbers, with South Dakota harvesting more roosters in two weeks of October than any other state during their entire season. 

A deeper dive into the hunter harvest data indicates how strong the pheasant season was, with approximately 9 birds per hunter averaged for the season. 

“Habitat and access have been a top priority for the department, and that has played a key role in both abundant bird numbers and ample locations for hunters to target them," said Kevin Robling, GFP Secretary. "We are extremely pleased with the success of the 2024 season and plan to build on this success for 2025." 

This is accomplished by partnering with landowners and ag producers through habitat programs offered by the State of South Dakota, the federal government, and multiple conservation groups working together to put more habitat acres on the landscape. 

Approximately 80% of South Dakota is privately owned, which means landowners and ag producers are at the front line of habitat management. 

“Conservation is a team effort, and South Dakota’s conservation delivery team is truly amazing,” elaborated Robling. “Taking care of the land is important to us as South Dakotans, and this land ethic mindset is what results in abundant wildlife populations.” 

One example of these programs would be the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) on the James River and Big Sioux River valleys, which provides the benefits of CRP with the additional component of access. 

Read the rest of the SD Game and Fish Article

Best Places to Hunt Pheasants in Oklahoma

Oklahoma may not be the first state that comes to mind for pheasant hunting, but it offers some excellent opportunities for hunters looking to bag these colorful game birds. While populations are not as dense as in traditional pheasant strongholds like South Dakota or Kansas, Oklahoma still has prime locations where hunters can find success.

Top Pheasant Hunting Spots in Oklahoma

1. Beaver River Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

Located in the northwest part of the state, Beaver River WMA is one of Oklahoma’s best spots for pheasant hunting. The mix of croplands, grasslands, and wetlands provides ideal habitat for ring-necked pheasants. Hunters should focus on areas near milo, wheat, and sunflower fields for the best chances.

2. Cimarron County Public Hunting Lands

The Oklahoma Panhandle, particularly Cimarron County, offers some of the most consistent pheasant hunting in the state. The region’s dry climate and agricultural fields create perfect conditions for pheasants. Public hunting lands in this area are worth scouting, especially near water sources and shelterbelts.

3. Packsaddle WMA

Situated in western Oklahoma, Packsaddle WMA provides good pheasant hunting opportunities thanks to its mix of grasslands and crop fields. The area is managed for quail as well, so hunters may find both species while walking the fields. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to hunt here.

4. Cooper WMA

Located near the Texas border, Cooper WMA has a mix of prairie grasslands and agricultural fields that attract pheasants. While not as densely populated as some northern states, patient hunters can still find success, especially near food plots and brushy cover.

5. Private Land Opportunities (Walk-In Hunting Areas - WIHA)

Oklahoma’s Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) program allows hunters to access private lands for free. Many of these areas in the northwest part of the state hold pheasants, particularly where grain fields and grassy cover intersect. Always check the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) maps for open WIHA locations before hunting.

Final Thoughts

While Oklahoma may not be the top pheasant hunting destination in the U.S., it still offers solid opportunities for dedicated hunters. By targeting the right areas—particularly in the northwest and Panhandle regions—and using smart hunting strategies, you can enjoy a successful pheasant hunt in the Sooner State.

For more information on public hunting lands and regulations, visit the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation website. Happy hunting!

Best Places to Hunt Pheasants in Arizona

While Arizona is best known for its desert landscapes and big-game hunting, it also offers surprising opportunities for pheasant hunters. Thanks to stocking programs and carefully managed habitats, ring-necked pheasants thrive in certain regions of the state. If you're looking for a unique upland bird hunting experience in the Southwest, here are the best places to hunt pheasants in Arizona.

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1. Yuma Valley (Yuma County)

Why Hunt Here?
Yuma is Arizona’s top destination for pheasant hunting, thanks to its agricultural fields, irrigation canals, and dense cover that provide ideal habitat for pheasants. The Arizona Game & Fish Department (AZGFD) regularly stocks pheasants in this area during the season, making it a reliable spot for hunters.

Key Locations:

• Imperial National Wildlife Refuge (limited access, check regulations)

• Yuma Valley Agriculture Fields (private land—permission required)

• Public Hunting Areas near the Colorado River

Tips:

• Focus on edges of alfalfa and cotton fields.

• Early morning hunts are most productive.

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2. Mohave County (Colorado River Corridor)

Why Hunt Here?
The riparian zones and farmlands along the Colorado River near Bullhead City and Lake Havasu provide excellent pheasant habitat. Stocking efforts by AZGFD ensure decent bird numbers.

Key Locations:

• Topock Marsh (requires a permit)

• Agricultural areas near Fort Mohave

• Hunt Unit 16B (check AZGFD maps)

Tips:

• Hunt near water sources and thick vegetation.

• Late-season hunts can be productive after stocking.

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3. Pinal County (Central Arizona)

Why Hunt Here?
Pinal County’s mix of farmland and desert grasslands supports a small but huntable pheasant population. The area around Eloy and Maricopa is particularly good.

Key Locations:

• Santa Cruz Flats (private land—seek permission)

• Public hunting areas near Red Rock

Tips:

• Focus on weedy ditch banks and crop field edges.

• Hunting with a dog improves success rates.

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4. Verde Valley (Yavapai County)

Why Hunt Here?
Though not as densely populated as Yuma, the Verde Valley’s river bottoms and irrigated farmlands hold wild and stocked pheasants.

Key Locations:

• Camp Verde area

• Private ranches (permission required)

Tips:

• Scout near alfalfa fields and along the Verde River.

• Late-season hunts may yield better results.

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5. Wilcox Playa (Cochise County – Limited Opportunity)

Why Hunt Here?
While not a traditional pheasant hotspot, Wilcox Playa’s grasslands and agricultural areas occasionally hold pheasants, especially near stocked locations.

Key Locations:

• Willcox Agriculture Fields

• Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area

Tips:

• Check AZGFD stocking reports before planning a trip.

• Better for mixed-bag hunting (quail, dove).

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Arizona Pheasant Hunting Tips

• Season & Regulations: Arizona’s pheasant season typically runs November–February. Always check the latest AZGFD regulations for dates, bag limits, and license requirements.

• Stocking Program: Most pheasant hunting relies on stocked birds, so focus on areas where AZGFD releases pheasants.

• Private Land Access: Much of the best habitat is on private farmland. Always get landowner permission before hunting.

• Use a Dog: A well-trained bird dog greatly increases success in Arizona’s thick cover.

• Blaze Orange: Required for safety, especially on public lands.

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Final Thoughts

While Arizona may not be the first state that comes to mind for pheasant hunting, areas like Yuma, Mohave County, and Pinal County offer solid opportunities—especially during stocked seasons. By focusing on agricultural zones, river bottoms, and AZGFD-managed areas, hunters can enjoy a unique Southwestern pheasant hunt.

For the latest updates on stocking locations and regulations, visit the Arizona Game & Fish Department website. Happy hunting!

Does South Dakota track whether its nest predator bounty program improves pheasant numbers? Results Mixed...

 

No.

State officials acknowledge there’s no data evidence showing the bounty program is increasing the pheasant population.

Implemented in 2019, the nest predator bounty program’s goal is to protect pheasant and duck nests by paying residents for killing predators such as raccoons and red foxes. Participants receive $10 for every tail they turn in. The program has cost the state $4.4 million to date. 

A three-year study started in 2007 showed increased nest success in both areas where predators were trapped and left alone. Mixed results suggest pheasant habitat plays a more important role than predator removal. 

The state previously conducted surveys of hatched pheasants and hens to gauge the population but ended the count in 2019 out of concern that low numbers deterred hunters from visiting South Dakota. 

In February, House Majority Leader Scott Odenbach, R-Spearfish, introduced a bill to terminate the program. It failed to pass. 

Read the full South Dakota News Watch article

Best Places to Hunt Pheasants in Minnesota

By PheasantHunter.com staff

 

Minnesota, often referred to as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," is also a haven for upland bird hunters, particularly those in pursuit of the ring-necked pheasant. With its vast expanses of grasslands, agricultural fields, and wildlife management areas, Minnesota offers some of the best pheasant hunting opportunities in the Midwest. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a beginner, here are some of the top spots to hunt pheasants in Minnesota.

1. Pheasant Opener Hotspot: Lac qui Parle County

Located in western Minnesota, Lac qui Parle County is renowned for its high pheasant population and excellent public hunting lands. The Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a prime location, offering over 33,000 acres of habitat ideal for pheasants. The mix of grasslands, wetlands, and croplands creates the perfect environment for these birds to thrive. During the pheasant opener, this area is bustling with hunters, so be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot.

2. Big Stone County

Adjacent to Lac qui Parle, Big Stone County is another hotspot for pheasant hunting. The Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding WMAs provide ample opportunities for hunters. The county’s rolling hills and diverse habitat make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The pheasant population here is consistently strong, thanks to effective conservation efforts and habitat management.

3. Pipestone County

Pipestone County, located in the southwestern corner of Minnesota, is a hidden gem for pheasant hunters. The area is characterized by its prairie grasslands and agricultural fields, which are ideal for pheasants. The Pipestone WMA and other public lands offer excellent hunting opportunities. The county’s relatively low hunting pressure compared to other regions makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a more solitary experience.

4. Nicollet County

In central Minnesota, Nicollet County is known for its productive pheasant hunting grounds. The Seven Mile Creek County Park and other public lands provide hunters with access to prime pheasant habitat. The county’s mix of grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural fields supports a healthy pheasant population. Nicollet County is also conveniently located near the Twin Cities, making it an accessible option for urban hunters.

5. Redwood County

Redwood County, located in the southwestern part of the state, is another top destination for pheasant hunters. The county boasts a strong pheasant population, supported by its extensive grasslands and agricultural fields. The Redwood Falls area, in particular, is known for its excellent hunting opportunities. Public lands such as the Ramsey Park WMA and other state-owned properties provide hunters with plenty of options.

6. Murray County

Murray County, situated in the southwestern region of Minnesota, is a favorite among pheasant hunters. The county’s diverse landscape, which includes grasslands, wetlands, and croplands, creates ideal conditions for pheasants. The Murray County WMA and other public lands offer hunters access to some of the best habitat in the state. The area’s relatively low hunting pressure makes it a great choice for those looking to avoid the crowds.

7. Lincoln County

Lincoln County, located in the southwestern part of Minnesota, is another excellent destination for pheasant hunting. The county’s mix of grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural fields provides ideal habitat for pheasants. The Lincoln County WMA and other public lands offer hunters plenty of opportunities to pursue these birds. The area’s strong pheasant population and relatively low hunting pressure make it a top choice for many hunters.

Tips for Successful Pheasant Hunting in Minnesota

• Scout Ahead: Before heading out, take the time to scout the area you plan to hunt. Look for signs of pheasant activity, such as tracks, droppings, and feathers.

• Hunt Early or Late: Pheasants are most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours. Plan your hunt accordingly to increase your chances of success.

• Use a Well-Trained Dog: A good bird dog can be invaluable when hunting pheasants. Breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shorthaired Pointers, and English Setters are popular choices.

• Wear Appropriate Gear: Blaze orange is required for safety, and sturdy boots are essential for navigating Minnesota’s varied terrain.

• Respect Private Land: Always obtain permission before hunting on private property, and be sure to follow all state hunting regulations.

Conclusion

Minnesota offers some of the best pheasant hunting opportunities in the country, thanks to its diverse habitat and strong pheasant populations. Whether you’re hunting in the grasslands of Lac qui Parle County or the agricultural fields of Redwood County, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. So grab your gear, bring your dog, and head out to one of these top spots for a successful pheasant hunt in Minnesota. Happy hunting!