Back to the Panhandle
So a bit of a recap after musing. The kind of musing that goes on during a solo drive home after a hunt.
The vastness and after walking over several lows and highs where they all look much alike, it is a bit intimidating.
The dogs tend to keep going–mostly. Max stretches out pretty good and is always hunting. This makes me smile–a lot.
It smells fresh and particularly nice in the early morning with a mist rising up out of the river valley.
The sand burrs were not bad at all but I booted the young fella anyway.
The prairie is large and a north woods hunter needs to re-evaluate distances and water toting.
Good boots are required.
An eye or sense of rodent holes can make a difference.
I think that Mother’s pack vest bought years ago and is nearly unused–will get some use next season. It will hold more water and a layer shed.
The tightly woven cap that holds water works twice. Once for the dog and again when redonned.
There is wind on the prairie…terrain causes shifts.
Quail on the prairie: its very cool that the covey once pointed and flown, provides additional multiple opportunities for a pup and the guy watching the pup and smiling.
Quail can run….a lot.
Quail will find a hole after being feathered or leg broke.
When they fly over a rise, there is no telling if they broke left right or kept straight.
A mist in the morning makes a difference–for about 2 hours.
Dogs love the feel of running in a big open space–like the prairie.
Lesser prairie chickens sound much like a ruffed grouse when taking off.
No need to be askeered of sand burrs…pups likes booties.
Both pup and the fella following and smiling are glad to get back to the vehicle.
The prairie is a lonely place.
Of Upland Birds, Setters and Trout 
What kind off boots do you use?
Lately I’m wearing Irish Setter boots. Very comfortable. I did purchase the orthotic insoles that Redwing offers. A nice upgrade for my feet.