NE has taken to releasing pen raised birds several times each season, tells me all i need to know, pitiful, waste of money and time.
NEGP releases birds twice a year at select WMA in eastern/central NE. Once for a youth hunt a week before the season, and again around Thanksgiving in same areas to promote/encourage family hunting. These areas have few wild birds left unfortunately. They are not trying to enhance populations throughout the state by releasing birds.
I agree with much of what has already been stated above. Just a few of my observations. So far this season I have hunted 11 days in SW NE, all on private ground. Have hunted the same area for years. Bird numbers are down from last year. Many of my days afield this year have been very warm and obviously dry. I hunt with one buddy and we usually hunt separate following our dogs. No groups or line up/blocking type hunting. We have killed similar numbers of birds compared to years past, just walking much more between contacts. Also, about a 50/50 mix of last season birds vs. this seasons birds. It seems the birds are grouped up even in the warm conditions which is unusual. When you find one, you find a bunch. I have hunted in precipitation (sleet/snow) on 3 days this season. This made all the difference. Birds held much better and scenting was much easier on the dog.
Some positives: We have seen tons of hens. With some cooperation by Mother Nature there is hope for the future. Cover that hasn't been mowed is generally incredible (Only a couple places we have access to have been mowed). Some of the Kochia is so thick you can't walk through it! Its always nice to get out and follow the dog. It's still hunting! I can't wait to go again!!
