Utah Upland Game Season Brings Hunting Opportunities For Doves, Grouse, And Rabbits
For hunters looking for something a little different this fall, Utah’s upland game season offers plenty of opportunities, and in many cases, you don’t need anything more than a Utah hunting license to get started.
From doves and grouse to chukars, rabbits and snowshoe hares, Utah has a surprising variety of upland game. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources says populations vary by species and location this year, with some doing well and others affected by dry conditions.
Mourning dove numbers are expected to be similar to, or slightly better than, last year across much of the state. DWR Upland Game Coordinator Heather Talley said in a press release that hunters should look around agricultural grain fields, sunflowers and water sources. She also recommends hunting doves earlier in the season because cooler nights and shorter days can trigger migration.
The dove season runs through October 30. Hunters pursuing mourning or white-winged doves also need a free Harvest Information Program, or HIP, number.
Grouse Numbers Decline Due To Dry Winter
Grouse hunting will also be available, although reproduction declined overall following a dry winter and spring. Dusky and ruffed grouse can be hunted with a hunting or combination license. Ruffed grouse are commonly found in aspen stands, while dusky grouse move into higher-elevation conifer forests as the season progresses.
Talley said that hunters without dogs can still be successful by moving slowly, stopping periodically and listening for birds. When grouse flush, they can disappear almost instantly.
Chukar numbers are expected to be average or slightly higher in some areas, although drought has contributed to declines in southern and southeastern Utah. Hunters should look for steep, rocky slopes with bunchgrass, sagebrush or cheatgrass, particularly near water.
Cottontail rabbits are another bright spot. Populations are increasing in most parts of Utah and should be more abundant this year. Look in creek bottoms, washes, sagebrush, willows and along the transition between agricultural fields and sagebrush.
Snowshoe hare numbers, on the other hand, remain low statewide. They are generally found at higher elevations in conifer and aspen forests. Talley said in a press release that one of the best strategies is to wait for the first significant snowstorms, then look for their distinctive tracks.
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And for hunters looking for an added challenge, the DWR’s Upland Game Slam offers eight different challenges, including one specifically for youth. Participants can earn a commemorative coin while helping generate funding for upland game and habitat projects.
Before heading into the field, hunters should check the 2026-27 Utah Waterfowl, Upland Game and Turkey Guidebook for seasons, permits, bag limits and other regulations. The DWR also provides species-specific hunting tips and distribution information for hunters planning their fall outings.
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Gallery Credit: Paty Quyn