u/This_Try5476

Just added a new English setter puppy Sonny to the family and began bird dog training. In the past we’ve looked at a western (we’re from western PA) pheasant hunt but the amount of options and lack of experience has made it overwhelming and it fell by the wayside in previous years

Reaching out here for ideas/ tips for a first hunt:

Looking for some help

-not looking for the 5star accommodations but decent room and board would be nice. Is it better to Airbnb or find an outfitter that provides both?

-South Dakota is always talked about highly but are Iowa / Minnesota / Nebraska comparable? Without the extra drive time

- not sure if I’d be able to arrange a group can it be done solo?

- how early do you need to book for 27 season?

Appreciate the comments/ help

Had a buddy trip down to HHI and played 4 courses over the weekend here’s the rundown:

We did not know this is aeration season so all courses are in some level of recovery from aeration

1 - Arthur hills- $130 best layout but worst condition tee boxes and greens were very bad condition whole chunks of green just sand patches. Dying damaged spots no attempts to replant or plug. However Most interesting course layouts and approaches 6/10. ( if maintained could be great course)

2 - heron pointe $380 very challenging, tight fairways & small greens probably not worth the price. 7/10

3 - $130 Hilton head national - aerated early so recovery almost complete great course fun for mid handicappers. This course also doubles as a squirrel preserve there were hundreds.
8/10

4 - George Fazio - $195 - tee boxes in bad condition greens were good but slow 7/10

- Would recommend any golf trips to schedule earlier in spring or later summer to avoid aeration season