Bird hunting is a cherished tradition in the United States, blending skill, strategy, and the great outdoors into an exhilarating experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, understanding the types of birds, the best hunting areas, and the optimal equipment and techniques can elevate your hunting experience. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about bird hunting, including the types of birds, the best shotguns (including 20-gauge options), and the role of hunting dogs.

Types of Birds for Hunting
Upland Game Birds:
- Quail: Small and fast, quail are a popular target for upland hunters. They thrive in brushy areas and fields.
- Pheasants: Known for their vibrant plumage and challenging flight patterns, pheasants are found in grasslands and agricultural fields.
- Grouse: Grouse species like the Ruffed Grouse and Sharp-tailed Grouse are native to forested areas and require stealth and precision.
Waterfowl:
- Ducks: Various species, including Mallards, Wood Ducks, and Gadwalls, are commonly hunted in wetlands and marshes.
- Geese: Larger and more challenging than ducks, Canada Geese and Snow Geese are hunted in open fields and near bodies of water.
Turkey:
- Wild Turkeys: Found in woodlands and mixed forests, wild turkeys are prized for their size and the challenge they present.
Doves:
- Mourning Dove: The most common dove species in North America, mourning doves are known for their distinctive cooing calls and fast, erratic flight patterns.
- White-winged Dove: Slightly larger than mourning doves, white-winged doves are found primarily in the southwestern U.S. and are known for their white wing patches and distinctive calls.
- Eurasian Collared Dove: Originally from the Mediterranean region, the Eurasian collared dove has spread across North America. They are larger and have a distinct collar around their neck.
Top Bird Hunting Areas in the USA
- Kansas: Known for its abundant pheasant populations, Kansas offers expansive grasslands and agricultural fields ideal for upland game bird hunting.
- South Dakota: Renowned for its pheasant hunting opportunities, with vast tracts of farmland and public lands.
- Arkansas: A prime destination for waterfowl hunting, Arkansas boasts numerous wetlands and rice fields that attract large numbers of ducks and geese.
- Montana: With its diverse landscapes, including grasslands, forests, and wetlands, Montana is a fantastic place for hunting a variety of upland game birds and waterfowl.
- Michigan: Known for its grouse hunting, Michigan offers dense forests and mixed habitats that are perfect for these elusive birds.
- Texas: A top location for dove hunting, especially in agricultural regions and near water sources, Texas provides ample opportunities for pursuing mourning, white-winged, and Eurasian collared doves.

Best Shotguns for Bird Hunting
Over/Under Shotguns:
- Browning Citori: Known for its reliability and balance, the Citori is favored by many upland hunters. Available in both 12-gauge and 20-gauge, the 20-gauge variant is lighter and easier to handle.
- Beretta 686: This model offers excellent craftsmanship and durability, making it a solid choice for bird hunting. The 20-gauge version is particularly popular among those who prefer a lighter load.
- Benelli Super Black Eagle III: Renowned for its fast cycling and reduced recoil, it’s ideal for waterfowl hunting. Available in 12-gauge, it’s less common in 20-gauge.
- Remington Versa Max: Offers versatility and a smooth shooting experience, suitable for both upland game and waterfowl. Though predominantly 12-gauge, the 20-gauge version is appreciated for lighter loads.
Pump-Action Shotguns:
- Mossberg 500: A durable and reliable choice, the Mossberg 500 is versatile enough for various bird species. It comes in both 12-gauge and 20-gauge models, with the 20-gauge being lighter and easier to manage.
- Remington 870: This classic shotgun is favored for its ruggedness and effectiveness in different hunting scenarios. The 20-gauge version is an excellent choice for those who prefer less recoil.
For Dove Hunting:
- Over/Under Shotguns: Models like the Browning Citori or Beretta 686 in 20-gauge are ideal due to their balanced design and reduced recoil, making them perfect for quick follow-up shots.
- Semi-Automatic Shotguns: The Benelli M2 or Remington 1100, available in 20-gauge, are popular choices for their quick follow-up shots and manageable recoil.
- Pump-Action Shotguns: The Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 in 20-gauge are versatile and dependable, making them excellent choices for dove hunting.

Choosing the Right Shot Type and Shell Size
Upland Game Birds:
- Shot Size: For quail and grouse, use #7.5 or #8 shot. For pheasants, opt for #5 or #6 shot.
- Shell Size: 12-gauge shells are commonly used, with 2.75″ or 3″ lengths providing a good balance of power and recoil. For a lighter alternative, 20-gauge shells in similar lengths are effective.
Waterfowl:
- Shot Size: Use larger pellets like #3 or #2 for ducks and #1 or BB for geese. Steel shot is often required due to environmental regulations.
- Shell Size: 3″ or 3.5″ shells provide the necessary power for larger waterfowl. For smaller waterfowl, 20-gauge shells in 2.75″ or 3″ lengths can be used effectively.
Turkey:
- Shot Size: #4, #5, or #6 shot are ideal for turkeys, providing a good balance of power and pattern density.
- Shell Size: 12-gauge shells in 3″ or 3.5″ lengths are recommended for a clean, effective shot. 20-gauge shells can also be used with appropriate shot sizes and shell lengths.
Dove Hunting:
- Shot Size: For doves, shot sizes #7.5 or #8 are ideal. These smaller pellets create a dense pattern that increases your chances of hitting the fast-moving birds.
- Shell Size: 12-gauge shells in 2.75″ or 3″ lengths are commonly used. For a lighter option, 20-gauge shells in similar lengths are effective for dove hunting.

The Role of Hunting Dogs
Pointers:
- Brittany Spaniel: Known for their enthusiastic hunting style and strong pointing abilities, Brittany Spaniels are excellent for upland game birds.
- English Pointer: Highly skilled in locating and pointing game, making them a top choice for pheasant and quail hunting.
Flushers:
- English Springer Spaniel: Renowned for their ability to flush birds out of cover and retrieve them, Springer Spaniels are versatile and effective.
- American Cocker Spaniel: With their strong flushing and retrieving skills, they are great for upland game hunting.
Retrievers:
- Labrador Retriever: Highly valued for their retrieving capabilities and versatility, Labs are excellent for both upland and waterfowl hunting.
- Golden Retriever: Known for their gentle nature and strong retrieving skills, Golden Retrievers are well-suited for waterfowl hunting.
Dove Hunting Dogs:
- Spaniels: English Springer Spaniels and American Cocker Spaniels are great for dove hunting due to their flushing and retrieving capabilities.
- Retrievers: Labrador and Golden Retrievers are also effective for dove hunting, especially in retrieving downed birds from open fields or water sources.
Conclusion
Bird hunting offers a diverse and rewarding experience, whether you’re pursuing upland game, waterfowl, turkeys, or doves. By selecting the right shotgun, including considering the benefits of 20-gauge shotguns, ammunition, and hunting dog, you can enhance your success and enjoyment in the field. Understanding the types of birds you’re targeting and the best hunting areas in the USA will further increase your chances of a fruitful hunt. With the right gear and knowledge, you’re well on your way to a memorable bird hunting adventure.