pheasant report Yakima basin

topcd098 · 10-20-2003, 03:51 PM

I went pheasant hunting on some private property in the Yakima basin last weekend. It has been better. My shot was a bit off, even after spending a couple of weekends at the trap range, which only bagged me one bird. I had an opportunity to limit on Sat. but flat out missed one bird, and my dog jumped in the way of my shot on the third bird. I managed to fire two shots at it as it dipped behind a knoll, but too little too late. The second bird I dropped on the second shot. It was a nice second year bird.
I was wondering how others did. In past years there has been a great deal more birds. Due to a decrease in farming, it seemed like a small portion of what there used to be were there.
I was also wondering if anyone has any comments on hunting WDFW release sites. Specifically Skagit and Central Ferry sites. I would like to get an opportunity at some more birds, but don't want to be dodging shot, if you know what I mean.
Craig

Perfect Drift · 10-20-2003, 04:53 PM

If I remember correctly, the Eastern Wa. Pheasant permit fee was manitorly included in our Small Game License. As well as a Warm Water Fee in our Fishing License, what happened to these? Is the money still there and is it being collected from our licenses? Where and what is it being used for?
Anyone?

topcd098 · 10-20-2003, 05:01 PM

Good questions. The WDFW has an explanatory brochure that can be downloaded. However, my grandfather in-law (not sure how to say that) told me that you used to have to pay a seperate $10 fee to the Yakima Indian tribe that was to go to habitat enhancement. Apparently, after an investigation, it was found that none of that money was used for enhancement. Unfortunately this is one of the variables causing populations to decline. Back to the WDFW. I guess their rationale is to get as much money as possible for their programs. I don't like it though. There should be a means to supply an inclusive hunting and fishing license. I don't like getting nickeled and dimed for everything I do in the outdoors. Give to me once, and then leave the wallet alone.

Lured In · 10-20-2003, 07:35 PM

Topcd...unfortunately I have not hunted Skagit, but from what I have heard it is as crazy as any fee pheasant hunt. Likely due to its proximity to Seattle.

fishncliff · 10-21-2003, 06:13 PM

The Skagit and Smith farm(Stanwood) hunts are pure combat hunting. [img]graemlins/icon_argue.gif[/img] I just moved from there and there were 3 people shot in the last 5 yrs. [img]graemlins/stupid.gif[/img]
My son is duck hunting at Stanwood and he says the pheasant hunters are on the fields as early as 0530 walking thru the decoys and fields.

I would really consider hunting anywhere but there.
My 2cents.

topcd098 · 10-22-2003, 07:54 AM

Well, thanks for the advice. I just wanted to find an easy way to get some more pheasants. I guess I will have to do a bit more research to find other, not so public, opportunities.
:whazzup: If anyone has any suggestions they would be much appreciated. Craig