Utah’s Diverse Upland Game: A Guide For Hunting Enthusiasts

Upland game hunting in Utah offers a variety of opportunities for both novice and seasoned hunters. With a Utah hunting or combination license, most upland game hunts are accessible without requiring additional permits. The state's diverse species include doves, band-tailed pigeons, grouse, partridge, cottontail rabbits, and snowshoe hares. For those interested in quail and pheasant hunting, tips and population information will be released later this year before their respective seasons begin.

The Utah Upland Game Management Plan, approved in 2022, serves as a guide for managing upland game species through 2032. It provides essential resources for hunters, such as distribution maps for various species. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or exploring a new hunting experience, understanding the current status of these populations and utilizing practical hunting tips can enhance your success this fall.

Doves

Mourning dove populations have surged in many parts of Utah, thanks to last winter’s heavy snowfall, which has created more water sources. These birds are often found near agricultural grain fields, particularly those with wheat and safflower, and in areas with sunflowers. Water sources, such as springs in sagebrush rangelands, are also prime locations for finding doves. White-winged doves, though rarer, can be found in southwestern Utah, often in the same areas as mourning doves. Hunters may also encounter Eurasian collared-doves, which are not protected and can be hunted year-round without a license or bag limit.

Dove populations vary across the state. In Central Utah, the Tooele area offers excellent mourning dove hunting opportunities, particularly near watering holes and sunflower patches. Northern Utah has seen an increase in dove numbers in Box Elder County, while populations in Davis, Weber, and Rich counties remain similar to last year. In Southeastern Utah, dove numbers are on the rise, especially in areas near irrigated fields and sunflowers. Southern Utah has also seen an increase in dove populations, particularly in Iron, Beaver, and Millard counties.

Band-Tailed Pigeons

Band-tailed pigeons, though not formally surveyed, appear to have stable populations. These birds are typically found in southern Utah in areas with Gambel oak, aspen, pine, spruce, and fir trees. Due to recent precipitation, the production of Gambel oak acorns—a key food source for pigeons in the fall—should be increasing. Although they are a challenging species to hunt due to their secretive nature, band-tailed pigeons offer a unique hunting experience for those willing to invest the time.

Grouse

Utah is home to several grouse species, including dusky and ruffed grouse, greater sage-grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, and white-tailed ptarmigan. Dusky and ruffed grouse can be hunted with just a hunting or combination license, while the other species require additional permits.

Dusky grouse are typically found at higher elevations, particularly in pine, spruce, and fir forests, while ruffed grouse are more common in aspen stands with young trees and shrubs. Grouse populations have generally increased this year, thanks to favorable weather conditions that contributed to successful spring hatches.

For optimal hunting success, it is advisable to hunt grouse early in the morning or late in the afternoon when they are most active. If hunting with a dog, an hour or two after sunrise is the best time, as the birds’ scent will be easier for the dog to track.

Partridge

Chukar and gray partridge can be found in various regions across Utah. Chukar hunting is particularly successful in steep, rocky slopes with bunch grass, sagebrush, or cheatgrass, especially early in the morning when the birds are most vocal. Chukar populations are generally increasing, with the best hunting opportunities in areas like the Nebo and Manti ranges in Central Utah and the Box Elder County in Northern Utah. Gray partridge are primarily found in Northern Utah, particularly in Box Elder and Cache counties.

Overall, Utah’s upland game hunting season offers a wealth of opportunities for hunters of all skill levels. By understanding the habits and habitats of these species and utilizing the tips provided, hunters can look forward to a successful and rewarding season.