Maine hunters test tougher gear as partridge numbers stay high
With above-average bird counts this season, many local gunners are swapping standard shotguns for handguns, archery, and single-shot models to add difficulty to the hunt.
By Yasmin Nasser ·
Maine upland bird hunters are facing a surplus of game this season. The state's partridge population has remained above average, and the season runs through the end of December. Because birds are plentiful, many experienced gunners are changing their equipment to make the sport more challenging.
Veterans of the sport distinguish between the two birds by their location. Ruffed grouse are primarily found in Aroostook County, while partridge are common in southern Maine. Some hunters note that the difference is hard to detect once the meat is prepared for a stew or pan. Population cycles for ruffed grouse depend on spring weather, which can swing from scarce numbers to a daily limit bagged in under an hour.
To match the high bird counts, hunters are limiting their range and accuracy. Greg Palm of Presque Isle uses a five-shot .410 Ruger Judge revolver. Other gunners carry single-shot handguns or .22 rifles with low-power scopes. One common theory is that a headshot preserves the meat, and missing a shot is less costly when more birds are available down the road.
Many hunters also swap semi-automatic or pump shotguns for older models. Some carry break-action over-under shotguns or double-barrel 20-gauge models. These choices limit shooting range and force the hunter to focus on precision. A group of elite grouse gunners use small-gauge shells in .410 or 28-gauge calibers. They rely on trained dogs to flush birds, ensuring they only shoot targets in flight.
Archery is another method gaining attention among local hunters. Last fall, two gunners used compound bows and crossbows to harvest birds. Both hunters had missed several shots but still bagged birds in their vests. While archery is difficult, it offers a different challenge for those who have harvested plenty of upland birds and big game in the past.
Hunters have until December 31 to pursue partridge. The high numbers allow for experimentation with tactics and gear. For many in the community, the method of the hunt is more important than the total number of birds taken.
The season continues through the end of the month. Hunters can expect above-average results in the field. The variety of gear, from handguns to crossbows, reflects a long-standing tradition of adjusting techniques to maintain the excitement of the sport.
