Quail hunting is a cherished tradition in many parts of the United States. Whether you’re chasing coveys of bobwhites in the South or scaled quail in the desert Southwest, knowing where to hunt is half the battle. In this guide, we break down the best states for quail hunting in 2025, focusing on wild bird populations, public access, habitat quality, and hunting tradition.
1. Texas
Why it tops the list: Texas offers an unmatched variety of quail species and vast landscapes. Hunters can pursue bobwhite, scaled (blue), Gambel’s, and Montezuma quail across the state’s regions.
- Leading quail state for both numbers and land area
- Most consistent scaled quail hunting in the U.S.
- Excellent conditions after good rainfall years
Although much of the land is private, Texas offers Walk-In Hunting Areas (APHs), and many outfitters specialize in quail hunts with dogs.
2. Georgia
Why it’s a southern tradition: Georgia has long been a stronghold of bobwhite quail hunting, thanks to both wild bird populations and strong private land conservation efforts.
- Home to some of the best-managed quail plantations in the country
- Wild bobwhite populations improving due to habitat restoration
- Good public access at WMAs like Chickasawhatchee and Clybel
Georgia’s quail culture is alive and well, and the state continues to invest in longleaf pine and upland habitat restoration.
3. Oklahoma
Why it belongs in your plans: Oklahoma has one of the most reliable wild bobwhite populations in the Central U.S. Even in dry years, it produces solid bird numbers and healthy coveys.
- Public access through the OLAP (Oklahoma Land Access Program)
- Strong wild populations in western and southern counties
- Known for quality walk-up hunting with pointing dogs
Seasons usually run from November through February, giving plenty of time to plan a trip.
4. Kansas
Why it’s a heartland hotspot: Kansas is known for its excellent walk-in hunting access and large populations of wild bobwhite and scaled quail, especially in the southern and western parts of the state.
- More than 1 million acres of public access land via WIHA program
- Prime bobwhite habitat in the Flint Hills and Red Hills
- Strong conservation efforts keep habitat in check
If you want public land and wild birds, Kansas offers one of the best DIY quail hunts in the country.
5. Arizona
Why it’s unique: Arizona offers three huntable species: Gambel’s, scaled, and Mearns (Montezuma) quail. Mearns hunting, in particular, is a draw for serious bird hunters due to its mountainous terrain and elusive nature.
- Vast public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
- Excellent Gambel’s quail numbers in desert flats
- Mearns season usually opens in December and peaks in January
Arizona’s terrain is as challenging as it is beautiful, making it a rewarding destination for experienced upland hunters.
6. New Mexico
Why it’s a wild bird haven: Like Arizona and Texas, New Mexico offers Gambel’s and scaled quail across a variety of rugged and remote habitats. It’s one of the few states where quail are largely free-range and wild.
- Public lands dominate much of the southern part of the state
- Low hunting pressure and good habitat years bring excellent results
- Draw hunts available for some restricted areas
If you enjoy solitude and adventure, southern New Mexico can deliver action-packed quail hunts without the crowds.
7. Florida
Why it’s a hidden gem: Florida may surprise some hunters, but its bobwhite populations are rebounding thanks to state and private restoration projects.
- Strong bobwhite numbers in the panhandle and central Florida
- Numerous WMAs offer quality upland bird access
- Great winter climate for late-season hunts
With a mix of public and plantation-style private land hunts, Florida is emerging as a reliable option for Southeastern upland hunters.
8. Nebraska
Why it deserves mention: Nebraska supports healthy populations of bobwhite quail and pheasants, especially in the southeast and southern panhandle regions.
- Open Fields and Waters Program provides thousands of acres of access
- Late-season hunting success is common with snow cover
- Excellent for mixed-bag hunts
For hunters who want a Midwest experience with public access, Nebraska is a solid and often overlooked destination.
9. Alabama
Why it’s a traditional quail state: Alabama has deep quail hunting roots and is seeing steady increases in wild bobwhite habitat through quail-focused conservation initiatives.
- Bobwhite Quail Initiative is restoring longleaf pine forests
- Public land options exist in Talladega National Forest and state WMAs
- Good mix of wild and managed hunts
While not as prolific as Georgia, Alabama is making moves to reclaim its quail-hunting heritage.
10. South Carolina
Why it earns a spot: Like neighboring states, South Carolina has invested in upland bird habitat and management through its Bobwhite Initiative.
- Improving bobwhite populations on managed lands
- Access via public WMAs and draw hunts
- Late-season opportunities available
It’s another great state to consider if you’re targeting the Southeast for bobwhite quail.
Comparison Table: Top Quail Hunting States
| State | Species Available | Best Region | Access Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | Bobwhite, Scaled, Gambel’s, Montezuma | South & West Texas | Mostly Private (Some Public) |
| Georgia | Bobwhite | South-Central | Public & Private |
| Oklahoma | Bobwhite | Western & Southern | Public & OLAP |
| Kansas | Bobwhite, Scaled | Flint Hills & Western KS | WIHA (Walk-In) |
| Arizona | Gambel’s, Scaled, Mearns | Southern AZ | Public |
| New Mexico | Gambel’s, Scaled | Southern | Public |
| Florida | Bobwhite | Panhandle & Central | Public & Private |
| Nebraska | Bobwhite | Southern & Southeast | Public |
| Alabama | Bobwhite | Statewide | Public & Private |
| South Carolina | Bobwhite | Central & Midlands | Public |
Conclusion
Quail hunting in America is on the rise again, thanks to dedicated conservation work, habitat improvement, and land access programs. States like Texas, Georgia, and Kansas lead the pack, but excellent hunts can be found across the South, Midwest, and Southwest.
If you’re chasing coveys in 2025, now’s the time to scout, prepare, and plan that trip. The birds are calling, and the dogs are ready.