Simcoe County & Otonabee Conservation

[MeatEater]

Hi There,

Anyone ever hunt these tracts for small game? Particularly interested in grouse and rabbit. I figure these might be pressured areas but looking at google earth I see some areas that might be promising but wanted to check to see if they hold game.

If not I might head up to QE2W or KH.

Cheers,

[finsfurfeathers]

Simcoe tracts are good for me but I look for mostly woodcock and I have decent dogs. Rabbits are scarce more so I believe due to a down cycle. Grouse are on the rebound however they are pressured birds and tend to flush a bit wild.
With simcoe tracts remember you need hunter insurance which usually means having an Angler and hunter membership.

[MeatEater]

Thanks for the info. I have OFAH which is required for both tracts. I don't have a dog so it might be more challenging but it's better than sitting around the house.

[Brooktrout]

I've found rabbits tough the last few years - I was wondering if it's a combination of a low point in the cycle and coyotes. My beagle has had to really work to sniff them out.

Lots of good County Forest tracks for grouse - I don't normally hunt them until the leaves are off - but I went for a little hike on the weekend with the beagle. No rabbits, but I did flush two grouse (one came home with me Yay!). Then I managed to slip into a beaver pond, which ended my hike a little early! LOL

[MeatEater]

Really good to hear that the grouse numbers seem to be on the rise!