It’s so hot outside; I saw a quail use an oven mitt to pull a worm out of the ground.
While it may be the middle of summer, around Riverview, we’re already thinking about quail season. Our team is busy preparing the property, caring for our dogs, and making sure every detail is ready for another memorable season. We wanted to give you a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into getting Riverview ready before the first hunters arrive this fall.
We want you to have a fun, memorable, and safe hunting experience. So, before the season begins, we take a close look at the entire property to make sure everything is in great shape. That means grading the roads, checking walking paths for holes, and clearing out stumps or roots that may have surfaced since last season. If we find anything that could get in the way of a great day in the field, we’ll take care of it before you arrive.
Another important part of our pre-season work is conducting controlled burns, as it’s one of the best tools for creating the ideal quail habitat. Over time, thick layers of dead grass and vegetation build up, making it difficult for quail to move around and find food. A carefully planned burn clears away that dense ground cover, leaving a mix of bare ground and low-growing vegetation so quail can forage and travel more easily.
Because controlled burns release nutrients into the soil and eliminate invasive woody plants and unwanted trees that choke out native flora, seed-producing native plants and annual weeds can flourish. That’s important because those plants are an important food source for quail. Even better, the fresh new growth after a burn attracts an abundance of insects, which are packed with protein and are especially important for the growth and survival of quail.
And speaking of well-fed birds, we’ve also been preparing our feed patches for the fall. These are essential to maintaining a peak quality quail-hunting environment. Strategically planted near native grasses and brushy cover, they provide reliable food while allowing birds to remain close to shelter. Combined with our controlled burning, selective mowing, and ongoing habitat management, these patches support healthy quail populations and create the varied cover needed for a rewarding hunt.
As any savvy wing shooter knows, hunting isn’t just about the land; it’s also about the dogs. A great hunt depends on great dogs, and keeping them in top shape is a year-round commitment. During the off-season, we’re introducing new pups and young dogs to the routines they’ll experience during hunting season, bringing in new bloodlines and new dogs, and making sure our seasoned veterans stay sharp and don’t develop bad habits. The off-season is a critical time for our four-legged friends so that by the time opening day arrives, they are ready to do what they love most and make your hunt even more memorable.
We’re often asked what hunters can do in preparation for hunting season to make their trip more enjoyable. Here are a couple of things you can do now that will help you get even more out of your trip:
- Give your shotgun a little attention. Pull out the shotgun you’ll be bringing with you to Riverview and make sure it’s ready to go. Check that everything is functioning properly, especially the safety, and give it a good cleaning. Confirm which chokes are in the gun. We recommend a Skeet choke in the bottom barrel for your first close shot, followed by a Improved Cylinder choke in the top barrel for the second, longer shot. Then head to your local sporting clays course and put a few boxes through the gun to get your timing down. That way, you’re getting comfortable with the same setup you’ll use on the hunt.
- Take care of your gear. The adage, “Take care of your gear and your gear will take care of you” rings true when you’re afield. Start with your boots. Make sure the soles still have plenty of tread, the laces aren’t frayed, and that they’re comfortable enough for several hours of walking. Trust us when we tell you that your boots are one of the most important pieces of gear. Look at your brush pants or chaps, vented shirts, layering pieces, and shooting gloves. If anything is worn or damaged, we’ll have everything you need to replace it right here at the Riverview Pro Shop.
When you arrive at Riverview, we want you to focus on your hunt. We’ve spent the off-season preparing the property, our habitat, and our dogs so everything is ready for you to have an unforgettable experience. With a little preparation on your end, you’ll be ready for a great hunt, too.
Come spend a few days with us in southwest Georgia and let our family show you why we work so hard all year to make every hunt one to remember.