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 filling potholes in the roads, checking walking paths for sinkholes, 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.
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 three 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 an Improved Cylinder (IC) in the bottom barrel for your first close shot, followed by a Modified 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, consider replacing it before you arrive.
- Get your legs ready. Quail hunting is an active sport. Start adding some walks into your daily routine to prepare. You don’t want to get here and find out you’re a bit out of shape and breathing heavily. Even a few walks each week can make a big difference in your stamina, and it’s good for you, regardless of the time of year.
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.