Springtime sooty grouse hunting in southeast Alaska is nothing like traditional grouse hunting. It takes place in the spring months, there may be no deciduous trees for miles, and “fields” only occur below the tideline or above the timberline. Shotguns are usually left at home and the only thing at the ready is either bear spray or a .44 magnum. Both hands are needed for climbing or to gingerly hold devil's club away from your tender bits. Vests are replaced with backpacks. Hunting with a dog does not increase your success rate. If the woods are silent, then there are no grouse close by, or at least none that you will find. Its very weirdness is what makes this hunt amazing.

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