EP. 338: Chasing Prairie Ghosts: The Flatlanders’ Upland Bird Adventure Across the West

Three hunters, six dogs, and three western states—one unforgettable pursuit for prairie chickens, sharp-tailed grouse, sage grouse, and ptarmigan.

This episode of On the Wing Podcast follows three Pheasants Forever volunteers, Kenny Reed, Colton Nefsker, and Justin Nie, as they return from an epic upland hunting road trip across South Dakota, Colorado, and Wyoming. From prairie chickens and sharp-tailed grouse in the Fort Pierre National Grasslands to the elusive white-tailed ptarmigan high in Colorado’s alpine ridges, these “Flatlanders” share the challenges, lessons, and triumphs that come with chasing new birds in wild country.

Host Bob St. Pierre dives deep into their preparation and field strategy—how they conditioned for altitude, handled dogs across different terrains, and balanced conservation ethics with the thrill of the hunt. Along the way, listeners will pick up practical tips for planning multi-state bird hunts, researching habitat, and staying mobile when conditions—or luck—shift.

With plenty of laughs, dog stories, and hard-earned insight, this episode captures the heart of upland adventure: wild birds, wild country, and good company under big western skies.

Show notes

• Use the code PFQF at onxmaps.com/hunt/app for 20% off your onX Hunt membership to plan your next bird hunting adventure. 

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