R.J.’s been pheasant hunting on Pelee Island for over 17 years. These pictures are from an October 2006 trip.
Photo (with thanks) and courtesy of R.J.
Pheasants were originally introduced to Pelee Island in 1897 and stocking continued through to 1927. The first pheasant hunt took place in October 1932. The re-stocking continues ever since to maintain the population.
Photo (with thanks) and courtesy of R.J.
Photo (with thanks) and courtesy of R.J.
All the dogs worked hard. The weather was great and there were good field shots.
Photo (with thanks) and courtesy of R.J.
Working the field cover.
Photo (with thanks) and courtesy of R.J.
In this shot we see the hunter, dog, and bird.
Photo (with thanks) and courtesy of R.J.
Typical dog work had them going through come knarly cover. It doesn’t look that bad, but trust me, there are enough thorns and brambles to tear the clothes right off ya!
Photo (with thanks) and courtesy of R.J.
Some birds get dropped in the lake so you need a dog that will retrieve in anything (lots of big rocks along the shoreline). Sally brings back a cock bird.
Photo (with thanks) and courtesy of R.J.
A visit to the memorial for the fallen hunters of flight 126 (2004) will bring a lump to your throat.
Photo (with thanks) and courtesy of R.J.