Top Public Pheasant Hunting Areas In Colorado

1. Northeast Colorado:

• Tamarack State Wildlife Area (Yuma County)
• Bonny State Wildlife Area (Yuma County)
• Jumping Mouse State Wildlife Area (Logan County) This region has a good mix of CRP lands, crop fields, and wetlands that attract pheasants.

2. Southeast Colorado:

• John Martin Reservoir State Wildlife Area (Bent County)
• Two Buttes State Wildlife Area (Baca County)
• Vilas State Wildlife Area (Baca County) The Arkansas River Valley in this area provides excellent pheasant habitat.

3. North-Central Colorado:

• Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area (Washington County)
• North Sterling State Wildlife Area (Logan County) These areas along the South Platte River corridor are known for good pheasant populations.

Key tips for Colorado:

• Focus on areas with a mix of grassy cover, crop fields, and riparian habitat along rivers/reservoirs
• Check Colorado Parks and Wildlife's annual small game reports for the latest pheasant population data
• More limited public land access compared to other Great Plains states
• Consider getting an on-demand small game access permit for some private lands
• Best hunting is typically mid-late season after crops are harvested

by Tim Esse