Hunting Sandhill cranes is one of the more unique experiences at Birdtail Waterfowl. From their oversized stature and vocal engagement to their captivating numbers and phenomenal table fare, this challenging pursuit is worth every effort. When all the stars align, the experience is truly remarkable, and it’s one that we chase consistently from early September to mid-October.
Incredible Biodiversity
Sandhill Crane
Hunt Details
Sandhill Crane Hunting Season & Limits
- Resident and Non-Resident (Canadian): September 1st to December 6th.
- Foreign Resident (US Citizen / International): September 1st to December 6th.
- Sandhill Crane limits are 5 daily and 15 in possession.
- We hunt Sandhill cranes from mid-September until mid-October (weather dependent).
- Legal shooting times are ½ hour before sunrise.
- Sandhill Crane hunts are ‘morning only’ at Birdtail Waterfowl.
- Note: Sandhill Crane hunts must be booked in advance and are a $75 additional charge per hunter.
- Note: Please let us know if you are planning to mount one of your Sandhill Cranes. See our Taxidermy Page for more details.
Hunt Departure
- Guests will meet their guide at the change house.
- Morning departures can be from 3:45 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.
- Departure times will vary based on season and travel times (travel times average 1 hour).
- Guides will confirm departure times before each hunt.
Hunt Logistics & Set-Up
- Guests are transported to and from the field in crew cab trucks with enclosed trailers.
- Hunting groups are 4 to 5 guests with one guide for the morning hunt.
- Hunts take place in pre-scouted fields (wheat, barley, oats or peas).
- Full body, Deception Outdoors Sandhill Crane decoys, and mobile blinds with natural cover are used.
- We do not use coffin style layout blinds.
- Guests help with decoy and blind set-up.
- Guides manage the hunt and call the shots.
- Morning hunts will usually conclude around 11:00 a.m.
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