Enter the Uplands
In our Enter the Uplands program, first-time and novice hunters learn the basics of shotgunning, pursuing upland game birds, and experience the joy of working with bird dogs. We strive to provide a deeper connection with nature for our participants by providing:
- A holistic introduction into the outdoors and the role upland hunters play in conserving game birds
- A healthy, safe, and inclusive environment
- Outdoor and firearms safety by experts
- Education on fundamental concepts related to upland hunting, including but not limited to bird identification, food and water sources and habitat management
- Hard skills such as plucking, preparing, and cooking wild game birds
- Education on how to continue to hunt and ways to get involved and be and advocate for conservation
FEE FOR 2 DAY, 2 NIGHT PROGRAM:
$1,100
Your fee includes:
- Mentor instruction
- Working with upland dogs
- All meals are included
- Shotgun instructions, clays, and ammunition
- Skill development and education surrounding upland hunting
- Campsite or accommodations will be provided depending on location
Itinerary
Upon arriving at Spoke Hollow Ranch you will meet the team that will help you on your first-time hunt, including staff, mentors and volunteers, as well as all the other participants on the hunt. After introductions, you will head to the shotgunning range to practice your skills shooting clay pigeons and receiving pointers and instruction. That night enjoy freshly prepared wild game, sit around the campfire and discuss hunting ethics, conservation and connect deeper with nature.
The next morning you will hit the field with your mentors and the dogs to learn the basics of moving around and walking in the field. Practice different types of scenarios you may run across while carrying unloaded guns. After lunch take the skills you have learned the past 24 hours and work alongside dogs to find coveys of birds. After a successful hunt, bring them back to camp, where you will learn how to pluck, clean and prepare birds for your own dinner table.
On the last day we will wrap up with further discussion about hunters’ critical role in conserving wild spaces and how you can participate in future opportunities.