Three hunters, six dogs, and three western states—one unforgettable pursuit for prairie chickens, sharp-tailed grouse, sage grouse, and ptarmigan.

This episode of On the Wing Podcast follows three Pheasants Forever volunteers, Kenny Reed, Colton Nefsker, and Justin Nie, as they return from an epic upland hunting road trip across South Dakota, Colorado, and Wyoming. From prairie chickens and sharp-tailed grouse in the Fort Pierre National Grasslands to the elusive white-tailed ptarmigan high in Colorado’s alpine ridges, these “Flatlanders” share the challenges, lessons, and triumphs that come with chasing new birds in wild country.

Host Bob St. Pierre dives deep into their preparation and field strategy—how they conditioned for altitude, handled dogs across different terrains, and balanced conservation ethics with the thrill of the hunt. Along the way, listeners will pick up practical tips for planning multi-state bird hunts, researching habitat, and staying mobile when conditions—or luck—shift.

With plenty of laughs, dog stories, and hard-earned insight, this episode captures the heart of upland adventure: wild birds, wild country, and good company under big western skies.

Show notes

• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Chasing ptarmigan across Alaska’s tundra pushes bird dogs, hunters, and grit to their absolute limits.

This episode of On the Wing Podcast transports listeners deep into the Alaskan backcountry as host Bob St. Pierre sits down with upland hunter Hunter Kamm, who just returned from a once-in-a-lifetime ptarmigan hunting trip. From the Kenai Peninsula to the Alaska Range, Hunter recounts the journey to check three species (willow, rock, and white-tailed ptarmigan) off his list in pursuit of the Upland Bird Slam.

Listeners will learn the logistics behind flying bird dogs to Alaska, navigating remote float-plane hunts, and choosing the right outfitter. Hunter breaks down the key differences between each ptarmigan species, how to prepare dogs for rugged mountain country, and why booties, trekking poles, and smart conditioning are essential gear. Beyond the technical side, this episode captures the raw thrill of backcountry adventure—the cold air, sweeping tundra, and the unmistakable flush of birds against snow-dusted peaks.

Whether you’re dreaming of an Alaska hunt or looking for practical upland hunting tips closer to home, this episode delivers both inspiration and insider know-how from someone who’s done it right.

Show notes

• Check out Hunter Kamm’s collection of photos from this adventure by following him on Instagram at @Hunter.Kamm.5
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership this hunting season. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Want more wild birds, better access, and stronger habitat? It all starts with joining the upland community.

In the heart of bird hunting season, the On the Wing Podcast takes a closer look at what really keeps the upland tradition alive—its members. Host Bob St. Pierre sits down with Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s membership team—Brian Essling, Emy Marier, and Scotty Moehlmann—for a candid conversation on how joining the organization directly supports wildlife habitat, public access, and the next generation of hunters and bird dogs.

From prairie hunts for sharp-tailed grouse in North Dakota to chasing late-season roosters through Minnesota cattails, this episode blends personal hunting stories with real insight into how membership dollars hit the ground. You’ll hear how members like Scotty found mentorship through local chapters, how Emy’s retrievers keep her connected to the field, and why Brian believes that supporting conservation is inseparable from chasing wild birds.

Whether you’re a lifelong upland hunter or an “adult-onset” bird hunting convert, this discussion illustrates how membership translates into acres of restored grassland, healthier wild bird populations, and better days afield for all of us.

Show notes

• Check out our current Pheasants Forever membership offers at https://pheasantsforever.org/join
• Check out our current Quail Forever membership offers at https://quailforever.org/join
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership this hunting season. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Discover how a simple day at the range can ignite a lifelong passion for hunting and wildlife conservation.

In this “snackable” edition of On the Wing podcast, host Bob St. Pierre sits down with PF & QF’s Hunting Heritage Program Manager Ashley Chance to explore how target shooting creates the next generation of hunters and conservationists. Through six fast facts, they unpack why a few broken clays can lead to deeper engagement in the outdoors—from building shooting confidence to supporting wildlife habitat funding through the Pittman-Robertson Act.

Ashley shares insights from recent research showing how women and new shooters are changing the face of recreational shooting and how those changes are strengthening the future of conservation. The discussion also highlights the surprising role of non-hunting firearm sales in funding for habitat restoration and public access programs across the country.

Whether you’re introducing someone to upland bird hunting, mentoring at the clay range, or brushing up on your marksmanship ethics, this episode is a must-listen for hunters who care about the long-term future of conservation and outdoor traditions.

Show notes

• Check out the National Shooting Sports Foundation to get involved in shooting programs at https://www.letsgoshooting.org/.  
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership this hunting season. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Find out where the best quail hunting opportunities are this season—and why bird numbers are rebounding across key states.

Quail hunters across the country are gearing up for what could be one of the most promising upland seasons in years. In this episode of On the Wing podcast, we break down the 2025 state-by-state quail hunting forecast, covering major quail states like Arkansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Texas, and Arizona. From weather impacts and habitat restoration to population trends and hunting pressure, this is your go-to field guide for planning a successful season.

You’ll hear how Iowa’s habitat improvements have sparked a remarkable rebound in quail numbers, why Arkansas is becoming a sleeper state for upland hunters, and what’s driving the positive trends across Texas grasslands. The conversation covers species-specific hunting strategies, explaining how to adjust your approach for bobwhites versus scaled or Gambel’s quail—and how dogs quickly adapt to each terrain.

Beyond population stats, this conversation reinforces a timeless truth of the uplands: slow down, trust your dog, and savor the hunt. Whether you’re chasing coveys in the prairies or brush country, you’ll come away with practical takeaways on scouting, shooting, and habitat conservation that every quail hunter should know.

Show notes

• Check out Quail Forever’s 2025 Hunting Forecast for a look at your favorite quail hunting states. 
• If you missed Quail Forever’s 2022 film, “Mearns’ Quail Country,” featuring llamas, watch it at www.QuailForever.org/llama
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership this hunting season. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

In this episode of On the Wing podcast, host Bob St. Pierre sits down with Pheasants Forever Journal editor Tom “Carp” Carpenter to unpack his new article, “Mix It Up.” Together they break down five fresh pheasant hunting tactics to keep your hunts productive all season long. From ditching rigid game plans and trusting your bird dog’s instincts to exploring overlooked thin-cover areas and trying brand-new public lands, “Carp” shares decades of hard-earned lessons that will help you see pheasant country—and your own hunting habits—with new eyes.

You’ll hear vivid stories from the prairies, where prairie chickens and sharp-tailed grouse still dance on the last wild grasslands, and get insider tips for adapting to changing cover conditions across the Dakotas and Midwest. Whether you’re a seasoned upland hunter or just getting started in bird hunting, this conversation will remind you why the best hunts happen when you step off the beaten path and follow your curiosity.

Show notes

• Follow along to learn how to mix it up this season—and why a little chaos in the field might be the key to your next limit.
• The foundation of this podcast comes from Carp’s “Mix It Up” article in the new Fall edition of the Pheasants Forever Journal. If you missed becoming a PF member in time for this issue to hit your mailbox, please email Carp at [email protected] and he’ll get you hooked up with a copy. 
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership this hunting season. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Discover the hidden world of chukar hunting with insider research, expert field reports, and hard-earned lessons.

In this episode of On the Wing Podcast, we dive deep into the rugged and rewarding pursuit of chukar hunting. Host Bob St. Pierre is joined by biologist Catherine Isaac, conservation leader Levi Day, and upland hunter Andrew Vavra to explore the unique challenges and opportunities of chasing these hardy game birds across the Intermountain West.

Listeners will learn how habitat quality, diet, and weather conditions directly influence chukar populations, and why understanding cheatgrass, native forbs, and seasonal food sources matter for both hunters and conservationists. The conversation blends science and experience—covering everything from the Idaho’s chukar opener and Wyoming field reports to insights on grouse hunting, antelope country, and bird dog training in tough terrain.

Whether you’re a seasoned upland hunter or “chukar curious” for your first western hunt, this episode offers actionable hunting tips, habitat strategies, and conservation knowledge that will make your time in the field more rewarding. From managing snake season to scouting slopes for coveys, you’ll gain the tools to hunt smarter and appreciate the landscape on a deeper level.

Show notes

• If you’re interested in a conservation career like Catherine Isaac, check out PF & QF’s upcoming Virtual Career & College Fair. Registration opens on October 1 st and the event takes place on December 4 th . Contact PF & QF’s Levi Day with questions at [email protected].
• If you’re a chukar hunter in Idaho who would like to contribute birds to Catherine Isaac’s research, please contact her at [email protected]
• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership this hunting season.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

In conjunction with Build a Wildlife Area Week, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are excited to announce the creation of a new public wildlife area in Iowa honoring Jim Wooley, the first biologist the organization hired during the mid-1980s. On this episode of On the Wing Podcast, host Bob St.Pierre is joined by Jim Wooley and two of his long-time biologist colleagues Matt O’Connor and Matt Holland.

The conversation covers:

·     The Early Days of Pheasants Forever: Wooley relives working as Iowa’s upland bird biologist and being courted by Pheasants Forever to join the fledgling organization to become its first biologist in the mid-80s.

·     Habitat Not Stocking: Wooley explains how the organization’s focus on improving wildlife habitat, rather than releasing stocked birds, caught him pleasantly surprised and ultimately convinced him that Pheasants Forever would be successful for the long-term.

·     Quail Forever: Wooley also reminisces about the creation of Quail Forever in 2005 and talks about the hard work of chapter volunteers across the quail range to get the organization off the ground.

·     Build a Wildlife Area: Holland explains the creation of the 422-acre Jim Wooley Family Tract located in Iowa’s Madison and Clarke counties. He also describes that the property shares a public boundary with the 1,021-acre Heritage Hills Wildlife Management Area and is already home to pheasants and bobwhite quail. Learn more about PF & QF’s Build a Wildlife Area week and this terrific property at PheasantsForever.org/Wooley.

Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership this hunting season.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

As autumn arrives in the northern states, bird hunters look forward to ruffed grouse season. On this episode of On the Wing Podcast, Jeremy Collard from the Ruffed Grouse Society joins host Bob St.Pierre to discuss the 2025 outlook for ruffed grouse hunting. St.Pierre also shares his “Yooper” roots and highlights the release of PF & QF’s second Opening Day film about celebrating the opener with the people you love.

The conversation covers:

• Ruffed grouse hunting forecast: The guys chat about the upcoming prospects for this year’s hunting season with a focus on the Great Lakes states of Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
• Ruffed grouse hunting tips: The duo also discuss tips for hunting ruffed grouse during the early season when the forest is a jungle of green vegetation, tactics during the mid-season after the leaves fall, as well as strategies for finding birds when there is snow on the ground at the end of the hunting calendar. 
• Opening Day Film: In celebration of this year’s release of PF &QF’s Opening Day film, Tetra Hearing is offering $100 off any CustomShield devices using the code PFOpeningDay100 at www.TetraHearing.com. 

Use the code PFQF at www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership this hunting season. 

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

South Dakota’s reputation as the nation’s pheasant hunting capital makes it a bucket-list destination for upland hunters. In this episode of On the Wing Podcast, host Bob St.Pierre is joined by Matt Gottlob, Pheasants Forever’s South Dakota State Coordinator, and South Dakota Game Fish & Parks biologists Alex Solem and Jake Wolfe to preview the 2025 South Dakota bird hunting season.

The conversation covers:

·     Pheasant hunting in South Dakota: 2024’s record harvest of 1.3 million roosters and what it means for 2025.

·     Prairie grouse hunting forecast: weather, habitat, and how 99,000 birds were taken in 2024—the best since 2000.

·     Sharp-tailed grouse and greater prairie chickens: population trends and prime regions for upland hunters.

·     Bird dogs in the field: Wolfe’s incredible story of rescuing a yellow Lab that became his first hunting partner.

·     Public hunting access: updates on the Public Access To Habitat (PATH) program, now providing over 121,000 acres across the region.

Whether you’re planning an early season trip, chasing roosters in the heart of fall, or stretching the season late into winter, this episode delivers the latest information, upland hunting strategies, and expert insights you need for a successful hunt. Fuel your passion for upland bird hunting in South Dakota and prepare for your best season yet.

Use the code PFQF at www.onxhunt.com for 20% off your onX Hunt membership this hunting season.

On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.