Looking for the best states to chase wild pheasants in 2025? You’re not alone. Every fall, thousands of upland hunters gear up for one of the most thrilling bird hunts in America. From cornfield edges in the Midwest to wide-open prairies out West, some states stand out for bird numbers, habitat, and access. This guide ranks the top pheasant hunting states and shows you where to go for the best shooting and adventure.
What Makes a Great Pheasant Hunting State?
It’s not just about bird numbers—it’s about access, habitat quality, and consistency.
When ranking the top states for pheasant hunting, we looked at:
- Wild pheasant populations and annual harvest numbers
- Public access to hunting lands
- Conservation programs like CRP and walk-in areas
- Weather patterns and habitat health in 2024–2025
- Feedback from hunters and local outfitters
Top 10 States for Pheasant Hunting in 2025
1. South Dakota
No surprise here—South Dakota is the pheasant capital of the U.S. With millions of birds, generous bag limits, and an unmatched upland culture, it’s the dream destination for pheasant hunters.
- Public Access: Over 1 million acres through the Walk-In Area program
- Typical Bag Limit: 3 roosters per day
- Best Areas: Aberdeen, Huron, Mitchell, and Chamberlain
2. North Dakota
North Dakota offers wild birds, fewer crowds, and great early-season action. Strong CRP coverage and the PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) program give you excellent access.
- Public Access: PLOTS lands are well-marked and widespread
- Season: Opens in early October
- Hot Spots: Dickinson, Bismarck, and Minot
3. Kansas
Often overlooked, Kansas delivers solid bird numbers in the western part of the state. The late season can be exceptional, and access through WIHA (Walk-In Hunting Access) properties keeps things hunter-friendly.
- Best Regions: Norton, Colby, and Dodge City
- Bird Quality: Mix of wild pheasants and bobwhite quail
- Bonus: Low hunting pressure compared to the Dakotas
4. Iowa
Iowa is bouncing back. After years of drought and habitat loss, CRP improvements and milder winters have helped bird populations rebound.
- Public Access: Over 700,000 acres open to hunters
- Hot Zones: Northwest and north-central counties
- Best For: Hunters wanting high success near home
5. Nebraska
Home to both wild pheasants and a healthy dose of mixed upland species like quail and prairie chickens, Nebraska is a solid pheasant hunting state with good public access.
- Best Areas: Southwest and panhandle regions
- Access: Open Fields and Waters program
- Season: Runs from late October to January
6. Minnesota
Minnesota hunters are enjoying strong populations across much of the southern region. Thanks to a combination of CRP, WMAs (Wildlife Management Areas), and restored grasslands, hunting is better than ever in 2025.
- Top Counties: Nobles, Jackson, and Lyon
- Gear Tip: Be ready for thick cattails and heavy snow
7. Montana
Known more for elk and big game, Montana is also a sleeper hit for wild pheasant hunters—especially those seeking remote, big country hunts. You’ll often find Hungarian partridge and sharptail grouse as bonus birds.
- Best Spots: Northern Montana and Milk River country
- Public Land: Block Management areas are widespread
8. Colorado
Southeastern Colorado offers surprisingly good pheasant hunting in grassland and crop field mixes. Bird numbers rise and fall with rainfall, but in good years, the hunting is top-tier.
- Regions: Yuma, Kit Carson, and Phillips counties
- Bonus: Pheasants Forever supports strong habitat work
9. Illinois
While Illinois isn’t known for wild pheasants anymore, state-managed hunting areas and private preserves still offer great shooting. Controlled pheasant hunts give new and youth hunters easy access to success.
- Public Sites: Des Plaines, Jim Edgar Panther Creek
- Best For: Beginner-friendly hunting with good bird numbers
10. Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources releases thousands of birds each season across designated public lands. While truly wild pheasants are rare, it’s a great state for training dogs and introducing new hunters.
- Access: Class A and B game farms and stocked lands
- Best Regions: Southern and central zones
Quick Comparison Table: Best States for Pheasant Hunting in 2025
| State | Best Region | Public Access | Bird Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | Aberdeen, Huron | Excellent | Wild & High-Density |
| North Dakota | Dickinson, Bismarck | Great | Wild |
| Kansas | Colby, Norton | Great | Wild |
| Iowa | North-Central | Good | Wild & Improving |
| Nebraska | Southwest | Good | Mixed Species |
| Minnesota | Southwest | Good | Wild |
| Montana | Milk River | Great | Wild & Remote |
| Colorado | Yuma, Phillips | Decent | Weather Dependent |
| Illinois | Controlled Sites | High | Released Birds |
| Wisconsin | Central Zones | Excellent | Stocked Birds |
Tips for Choosing a State
If you want:
- High bird numbers: South Dakota, Kansas, North Dakota
- Less hunting pressure: Montana, Nebraska
- Beginner-friendly hunting: Wisconsin, Illinois
- Mixed upland species: Montana, Colorado, Nebraska
Conclusion
The best state for pheasant hunting in 2025 depends on your goals—whether that’s chasing wild roosters in remote country or getting fast action on a stocked field with your dog. South Dakota remains the king, but don’t overlook the hidden gems like Montana and Kansas. With solid habitat and strong conservation support, these states promise another great year for upland bird hunters.
Where will you hunt pheasants this season? Drop a comment or share your favorite state and strategy. Good luck, and enjoy the chase!