This Project Upland Film, ‘Flushing Grouse’ Will Shift Your Perception of Hunting With Flushing Dogs

When most people hear about ruffed grouse hunting, they probably envision carrying double-barreled shotguns, and pointing dogs. In fact, these very ideals often overshadow the diverse methods of grouse hunting traditions. ‘Flushing Grouse’ is a Northwoods Collective film that delves into another world of ruffed grouse hunting, one which includes flushing dogs and semi-automatic shotguns.

In the film, you will be introduced to Fritz and Ric Heller – two brothers from Michigan who have fully embraced the different advantages and challenges of hunting with flushing dogs. With American cocker spaniels and Labrador retrievers, take a ride into grouse country with the Heller brothers and see if your perception of ruffed grouse hunting remains the same.

Both dedicated members of the Ruffed Grouse Society, Fritz and Ric speak of their personal passion of recruitment, conservation and the future of grouse hunting. Fritz serves as president of the Le Grand Traverse Michigan Chapter where he has continued to push his dedication to forest conservation into action.

What to Know About Ruffed Grouse Hunting in Michigan

The ruffed grouse hunting season in Michigan opens September 15 and runs until mid-November, (Nov. 14) then reopens December 1 until January 1. And don’t let a little snow deter you – grouse actually do quite well in it, and will even “snow roost” if conditions call for it.

What Type of Hunting License is Required?

All you need to hunt ruffed grouse in Michigan is a base hunting license – which is considered your small game license. Residents pay $11 and non-residents pay $151. Non-residents are also offered a 3-day small game license for $50 or a 7-day small game license for $80. (2019)

To find out more about the Ruffed Grouse Society check out: https://ruffedgrousesociety.org/

To learn more about ruffed grouse hunting visit: https://projectupland.com/category/ruffed-grouse-hunting/

OutdoorHub Editor: Keenan Crow

Keenan Crow is an outdoor writer who graduated from Central Michigan University with a degree in journalism and creative writing. He has been writing for OutdoorHub for nearly five years, but anybody he is close with will tell you he has been telling hunting stories for far longer. He uses his experiences outdoors to write about things he loves - bow hunting, fishing, upland hunting, shed hunting, turkey hunting, waterfowl hunting, dog training, shotguns, ATVs and the outdoor lifestyle he lives in his home state of Michigan. Outside of hunting/fishing, he also loves to cook - especially with wild game - play golf and go on hikes with his yellow lab, Stella.