An annual Montana hunting trip

The vistas in north central Montana are spectacular—and the dog work can be, too. Royce had no trouble adapting to the different terrain. Photo by Jeff Decker.

My annual hunting trip to Montana is a highlight of the fall. As usual, I met Bill Heig, of Bowen Lodge in Deer River, Minn., in eastern Montana. We stayed in that area for a few days and then hunted our way west to our final destination in the central part of the state. We rendezvoused with two friends from Denver, Colo., for several days of bird hunting.

For a grouse hunter used to dense woods and listening to a bell, the open country of Montana is especially alluring. Comet can be seen hundreds of yards out—whether hunting, working a bird or on point. Photo by Jeff Decker.

Puppies have a blast and can learn so much on a big hunting trip. Tally retrieves a sharptail with gusto.

My string was a little light on experience this year; three of our females were back at the kennel in various stages of getting bred. Even so, I had a strong group of dogs: Northwoods Grits (10 yrs.), Northwoods Rolls Royce (8 yrs.), Northwoods Leon (3 yrs.), Northwoods Comet (2 yrs.), Northwoods Gale (1 yr.) and puppies Northwoods Redbreast (7 mos.) and Northwoods Talisker (4 mos.). All dogs did well but watching the younger dogs develop their skills in the expansive terrain was a fun and gratifying.

Royce had a beautiful find on a steep hillside and young Robin backed. But when the bird flushed, she chased. Photo by Jeff Decker.

The ongoing drought had a severe impact; sparse vegetation and warm temperatures made for some challenging hunts. But bird numbers were good—and after all, that’s the most important part.

It’s always fascinating to imagine the story behind an abandoned homestead. This one is in eastern Montana.