The Best Time of Year for Kansas Pheasant Hunting

Written By Caleb Roche

Pheasant hunting in Kansas is more than just a pastime—it’s a tradition rooted in wild birds, wide-open landscapes, and the thrill of the flush. Known for its strong populations and ideal upland habitat, Kansas consistently ranks among the top states for pheasant hunting in the U.S.

But even in a state with a long and productive season, some times of year are better than others depending on what kind of experience you're after. Whether you’re looking for early-season excitement or late-season challenge, here’s everything you need to know about the best time of year to hunt pheasants in Kansas.

Kansas Pheasant Hunting Season Dates (2024–2025)

The Kansas pheasant season typically runs from:

  • Regular Season: November 9, 2024 – January 31, 2025

  • Youth/Veteran Weekend: November 2–3, 2024

This three-month window offers a variety of hunting conditions and bird behavior, meaning you can tailor your trip based on your goals, experience level, and preferred hunting style.

Early Season (Mid-November to Early December)

Best For:

  • High bird numbers

  • Easy walking in light cover

  • Casual or first-time hunters

Early in the season, pheasants are still adjusting to hunting pressure. Birds tend to hold tighter, which allows for close flushes—especially when hunting behind dogs. Cover is also more manageable, as fields haven’t yet been matted down by snow, wind, or heavy traffic.

This is an ideal time for youth hunters or anyone new to upland hunting, offering good visibility, warmer weather, and easier terrain.

Bonus: The youth/veteran weekend (just before the season opener) provides a relaxed environment with limited pressure.

Mid-Season (Mid-December)

Best For:

  • Balanced bird behavior and cover

  • Experienced hunters

  • Combo hunts (pheasant & waterfowl)

By mid-December, the season hits its sweet spot. Crops have been harvested, pheasants are more concentrated near food sources, and hunters with well-trained dogs will find consistent success. While the birds may be a bit more wary, their patterns become more predictable.

This period also overlaps with peak waterfowl season, making it a great time for combo hunts. Outfitters like Salt Plains Outfitters offer both upland and waterfowl hunts during this time—allowing hunters to experience the best of both worlds in a single trip.

Late Season (January)

Best For:

  • Serious, challenge-seeking hunters

  • Cold-weather diehards

  • Veteran dogs and seasoned wingshooters

Come January, the weather turns cold and the birds turn smart. With weeks of hunting pressure behind them, pheasants are quick to flush and more likely to run than hold tight. That said, late-season hunts can still be highly productive—especially with snow on the ground, which limits their hiding spots.

Late-season hunts reward persistence and planning. The birds you do flush are earned, but often result in unforgettable hunts with less competition and beautiful winter landscapes.

So, When Is the Best Time to Hunt?

It depends on what you're looking for:

Hunting GoalBest Time to GoHigh Bird NumbersEarly November to Early DecemberBalanced HuntMid-DecemberCombo Hunt (Pheasant & Waterfowl)Mid to Late DecemberFewer HuntersJanuaryChallenge & StrategyJanuary

Whether you’re hunting with a group of friends, introducing a new hunter to the field, or chasing that late-season trophy flush, Kansas offers outstanding upland opportunities throughout the entire season.

Make the Most of Your Trip with a Guided Hunt

Booking with a reputable outfitter—like Salt Plains Outfitters—ensures that you’ll be hunting well-managed private land, guided by experts who scout daily, and assisted by trained dogs that know how to work wild birds. Our all-inclusive upland packages offer comfortable lodging, gourmet meals, and fully guided hunts for the full Kansas experience.

Final Thoughts

Kansas isn’t just a great place to hunt pheasants—it’s one of the best destinations in North America. And while any time during the season can deliver success, understanding the rhythm of the birds, the land, and the weather will help you plan a trip that fits your goals perfectly.

Book Your Kansas Upland Hunt Today

📍 Ready to experience Kansas pheasant hunting at its best?
🎯 Visit SaltPlainsOutfitters.com to explore our all-inclusive upland packages, check availability, and reserve your preferred hunting dates.

Whether it’s your first flush or your fiftieth, Kansas delivers. Don’t miss it.

Caleb Roche

Located in Edmond, Oklahoma, Caleb is a Marketing Consultant that helps businesses build better marketing strategies. Combining strategy with implementation, he focuses on building long-term customers through data-driven decision-making. With experience working with both small and large companies, he has the experience to help businesses create strategic marketing plans that focus specifically on each business’s strengths, not just a one size fits all/template-based strategy.

https://www.crocheconsulting.com
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