“Our added winter moisture and active calling period led to a very long nesting and hatching season, starting in late April and extending into early summer, with chicks hatching as late as early July,” O’Dell said. “From a population standpoint, we are out of a deficit for the first time since 2001-2002. Quail are starting to pop up in places they haven’t been seen in a while.
“If you’ve never had the chance to experience what Arizona quail hunting built its name on, then this would be the year to get out and enjoy it.”
Meanwhile, hunters should note that the season for Mearns’ quail doesn’t begin until Dec. 4. It’s summer rainfall that plays a key role in nesting success and population numbers of this species. After a spotty and relatively weak monsoon across southern Arizona, these birds are likely to be abundant only in pockets that received sufficient precipitation this summer.
A valid Arizona hunting or combination hunt and fish license is required for all hunters 10 and older. Those hunters under 10 must either have a valid hunting or combination hunt and fish license, or be accompanied by an adult who possesses a valid hunting or combination hunt and fish license. Licenses can be purchased online or at license dealers statewide. A youth combination hunt and fish license (ages 10 to 17) is $5.
The general bag limit is 15 quail per day in the aggregate, of which no more than eight may be Mearns’ quail (when the Mearns’ season opens Dec. 4). The general possession limit is 45 quail in the aggregate after opening day, of which no more than 15 Gambel’s, scaled or California quail in the aggregate may be taken in any one day. After the opening of the Mearns’ season, the 45-quail possession limit may include 24 Mearns’ quail, of which no more than eight may be taken in any one day.
More quail-hunting information can be found on the department’s website at https://www.azgfd.com/Hunting/. Another resource for both new and experienced hunters alike is “An Introduction to Hunting Arizona’s Small Game.” Written by Randall D. Babb, the 196-page, full-color book covers where and how to hunt small game birds (like quail), squirrels, rabbits, ducks and geese. It also includes how to prepare and cook your harvest, with illustrations and recipes. The book can be ordered for $16.95 at www.azgfd.gov/publications.
Finally, hunters should check out O’Dell’s techniques for field-dressing quail at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gRwZAcWzzk.
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Publishers Notes: OUT OF STATE HUNTERS, FISHERMEN & OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS; Due to the Covid 19 pandemic, there could be limitations for OUT of STATE hunters, fishermen and other outdoor enthusiasts to include a 14-day quarantine requirement or negative COVID-19 testing alternative. Please check with the State's Department of Natural Resources BEFORE you travel or apply for the 2020 Fall Hunts.
Disclaimer: The views expressed on this site are that of the authors and not necessarily that of TBC Press
Apply by March 31 for Ohio 2021 Controlled Fishing/Hunting Opportunities
Submitted by: TBC Press
Posted on: 03/20/21
The Backcountry Press
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News # 14274
Fishing opportunities
Trout fishing opportunities are available at Cold Creek in Erie County. Cold Creek is one of Ohio’s most productive and unique fishing streams, and a half-mile section of the creek located at the Castalia State Fish Hatchery is open to lottery winners on select dates from May 24 to Nov. 26, 2021.
One season is available for adult anglers, and another for youth anglers. Youth applicants are required to be between 4 and 15 years old. Approximately 100 adult and 90 youth permits are available. Individuals selected to participate can bring two adults and three youths under the age of 16 (no more than six people total). All anglers aged 16 and older are required to possess a 2021 Ohio fishing license while fishing at Castalia. Anglers can find additional information on the Fishing Lotteries and Events page at wildohio.gov.
Hunting opportunities
Spring wild turkey hunting opportunities are available throughout Ohio. Youth wild turkey hunts are scheduled for Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area (Trumbull County), Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area (Wayne County), Eagle Creek Wildlife Area (Brown County), Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area (Wyandot County), and Lake La Su An Wildlife Area (Williams County). Mentor hunts are scheduled for Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area and Eagle Creek Wildlife Area.
All hunters are required to have a valid hunting license and wild turkey permit to apply. Applicants for the youth wild turkey hunts are required to be 17 years old or younger, and accompanied by a nonhunting adult.
The mentor-style hunts are open to learners of all ages. Learners are eligible for the controlled hunts if they have not harvested a wild turkey within the last five years. Learners and mentors are both eligible to harvest a wild turkey, provided the learner harvests their bird first. Either the learner or the mentor may apply, and both must be properly licensed during the hunt. Hunters can find additional information on the Controlled Hunting and Trapping Events page at wildohio.gov.
The Division of Wildlife wants to help new and experienced hunters and anglers make the most of their outdoor adventures. Visit the Wild Ohio Harvest Community page at wildohio.gov for information on getting started, hunting and fishing opportunities, and delicious wild game recipes.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.
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Publishers Notes: Our country is still battling COVID-19. To avoid the spread of this virus and continue to enjoy outdoor activities, ALL outdoor enthusiasts (man, woman, child) should follow the guidelines set by nps.gov. These guidelines include; social distancing, the Leave No Trace principles, including pack-in and pack-out, to keep outdoor spaces safe and healthy.
Ohio anglers and hunters are encouraged to apply for controlled access opportunities this spring, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife. The online application period is open until Wednesday, March 31.
Entry to each opportunity is selected through a random computer-based lottery system. Those wishing to apply can visit the Ohio Wildlife Licensing System webpage or apply through the HuntFish OH mobile app.
A nonrefundable $3 fee is charged for each opportunity. Applicants need to have all required licenses and permits prior to submitting their information. Phone applications can be submitted by calling 1-866-703-1928 and require an additional service fee of $5.50. No mail-in applications are accepted.
