SSM: What is a typical day of hunting like at Pheasant Bonanza?
J.S.: A typical upland hunting day starts with guests waking up around 7 to 7:30. Once they are up and moving, they head down to Roosters for breakfast. (Roosters is located in the lower level of our lodge.) After Chef Kris has filled them up, they head to the main office for a safety meeting and grab any last-minute things for the hunt. They then jump in with their guide and some pointers and flushing dogs and head to the field. Hunters generally come back to the lodge around 11:30, before Chef Kris dishes up a hearty lunch. After a refreshing break, the guide picks them up around 1:30 for the afternoon hunt, and they end up back at the main office around 4:30. Guests then have the opportunity to shoot clays or rest before cocktail hour and dinner at 5:30. The guides love joining the guests to rehash the day's stories and maybe join in with a game or two.
SSM: What aspects of your operation seem to impress guests the most?
J.S.: The aspect that blows our clients away the most is the dogs. I know everyone says how awesome their dogs are, but ours really are! They love to hunt, but they also have great personalities. They truly love to go to work and get petted during breaks. Once they hit the field, it's game on.