The Grouse Hunter’s Life: Cover, Cuts, and Constant Scouting

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell is joined by Tom McPherson, a diehard grouse hunter from western Pennsylvania, for a deep dive into one of the most challenging — and rewarding — pursuits in the upland woods. Tom shares how his passion for grouse hunting developed over time, eventually leading him into running bird dogs and traveling across the Northeast and upper Midwest in search of better bird numbers. The conversation explores the unique nature of grouse hunting, from unpredictable flushes and fast shooting to the role of dogs in locating birds that often prefer to run instead of fly.
The discussion also takes a deeper turn into habitat, conservation, and the long-term outlook for grouse in Pennsylvania. Tom explains how timber management, forest age diversity, and large-scale habitat work — often supported by organizations like the Ruffed Grouse Society — are critical to sustaining and rebuilding populations. From breaking down maps and identifying productive cover to committing nearly year-round effort for a six-week season, this episode highlights the dedication required to chase grouse and the bigger picture of habitat stewardship that supports the future of the species.

 

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