#339 | Hunting Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock North of the Border with Andrew & Mark

In this episode, host Nick Larson is joined by Andrew Lowles and Mark Symes of Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada, as they discuss the state of grouse and woodcock hunting in Atlantic Canada. They cover their unique experiences managing land for upland birds, their passion for conservation, and what makes hunting in their regions special. From forest management practices to the challenges and rewards of bird hunting in the varied landscapes of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Andrew and Mark share their wealth of knowledge, offer advice to hunters, and highlight the exciting potential for growth within the Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada. Expect to Learn: The diverse forest types in Eastern Canada and how they contribute to grouse and woodcock habitats. The role of the Ruffed Grouse Society Canada in promoting habitat management and conservation in the region. How hunters can use modern tools like OnX to plan their hunts on Crown land and private property. The unique challenges and opportunities of hunting in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, including woodcock flight patterns and grouse cycles. Insight into how the Ruffed Grouse Society Canada is growing and how members can get involved in local conservation efforts. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] - Podcast Introduction and Welcoming Andrew and Mark from [03:40] - Andrew’s Background and Journey into Grouse Hunting [07:53] - Mark’s Path from Moose Hunting to the Uplands [09:24] - Managing Forest Lands for Upland Birds in Atlantic Canada [11:30] - Public Land and Crown Land Access in Nova Scotia [14:40] - Old Farmsteads, Wild Apples, and Hidden Grouse Habitat [19:43] - Defining Good Grouse Cover and Forest Types in New Brunswick [25:15] - Private Land Regulations and Trespass Law Differences [33:01] - Regional Differences in Habitat Across Canada [35:46] - Softwoods, Christmas Trees, and Grouse Habitat Impacts [37:00] - The Mission and Growth of Ruffed Grouse Society Canada [43:03] - Habitat Projects and Access Initiatives [52:53] - Exploring New Covers and Hunter Observations [57:08] - Training Dogs and Transitioning to Pointing Breeds [01:05:00] - Hunting as a US Visitor and Guide Requirements [01:10:35] - Promoting Awareness and Conservation Opportunities [01:17:14] - Closing Remarks and Episode Wrap-Up Follow the Host Nick: Instagram: @birdshot.podcast Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com Listening Links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices