Hunting Ruffed Grouse in Alaska can be a rewarding experience, as these birds are abundant in certain areas and provide excellent table fare. Here are some of the best places and tips for a successful hunt:
Best Places to Hunt Roused Grouse in Alaska
Southeast Alaska (Tongass National Forest)
The dense forests and mild climate of Southeast Alaska make it a prime habitat for Ruffed Grouse.
Areas around Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka are particularly productive.
Southcentral Alaska
The Kenai Peninsula, Mat-Su Valley, and areas around Anchorage offer good grouse habitat.
Look for mixed birch and spruce forests with dense underbrush.
Interior Alaska
Fairbanks and surrounding areas, including the Tanana Valley, have healthy grouse populations.
Focus on river corridors and edges of boreal forests.
Road-Accessible Areas
Many Alaskan highways, such as the Glenn Highway, Parks Highway, and Richardson Highway, provide access to grouse habitat.
Walk logging roads, trails, or old forest service roads for success.
Tips for Successful Ruffed Grouse Hunting
Know the Habitat
Ruffed Grouse thrive in young forests, especially those with a mix of birch, aspen, and alder. Look for areas with dense underbrush and nearby water sources.
Hunt Early Morning or Late Afternoon
Grouse are most active during these times, feeding on berries, buds, and insects.
Use a Shotgun with Small Shot
A 20-gauge or 12-gauge shotgun with #6 or #7.5 shot is ideal for grouse hunting.
Consider using a modified or improved cylinder choke for better pattern spread.
Bring a Dog
A well-trained bird dog, such as an English Setter, Brittany, or Labrador Retriever, can greatly increase your chances of finding grouse.
Walk Slowly and Quietly
Grouse often hold tight in cover, so move slowly and pause frequently to listen for their distinctive drumming or flushing sounds.
Look for Sign
Search for grouse droppings, dusting areas, and feeding sites (e.g., stripped birch buds or scratched-up ground).
Hunt in September and October
Fall is the best time to hunt Ruffed Grouse in Alaska, as the birds are more concentrated and easier to locate.
Be Prepared for Weather
Alaska's weather can change quickly. Dress in layers, bring rain gear, and wear sturdy boots for walking through rough terrain.
Practice Stealth
Grouse have excellent hearing and will flush if they sense danger. Move quietly and avoid sudden movements.
Know the Regulations
Check the Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations for bag limits, hunting seasons, and any area-specific rules.
Additional Notes
Ruffed Grouse are often found in the same areas as Spruce Grouse, so be sure to identify your target before shooting.
Always carry a map, compass, or GPS, as it’s easy to get turned around in Alaska’s vast wilderness.
By focusing on the right habitats and using these tips, you’ll increase your chances of a successful Ruffed Grouse hunt in Alaska. Good luck!
by RuffedGrouse.com staff
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