Nothing matches the excitement of seeing a covey rise. Whether you're new to upland hunting or just looking for a way to expand your season, consider a quail hunt.
Quail hunting season, California hunters, is one season that's worth circling on your calendar.
The California Valley Quail is the state's most common game bird, and it's highly valued for its tender, flavorful meat.
California offers a unique upland hunting experience thanks to its vast terrain, long seasons, and the presence of multiple quail species. Quail hunting is renowned for its fast-paced, close-range action, which keeps upland hunters coming back each season. Quail flush in coveys, offering reactive shooting that's exciting and highly rewarding.
The short hikes, teamwork with dogs, and active shooting style make for a great introduction to the sport for new hunters. The learning curve is approachable, but the challenge still keeps seasoned hunters engaged.
Hunting access is another major advantage. California has millions of acres of public land available, including BLM parcels, national forests, and designated upland game bird areas. The many land options make quail hunting more affordable and more available than many other types of game.
Plus, with the season stretching into late January, you've got plenty of chances to fill your vest even after the big game season winds down.
When Is Quail Season in California?
The quail season varies slightly by species and region, but here's a general breakdown:
California Valley Quail and Gambel's Quail: These species typically have a general season that opens the third Saturday in October and runs through late January. For the 2025–2026 season, that likely means. For 2025, the season starts October 18 and runs through January 25, 2026, with variances depending on the zone.
Mountain Quail: Mountain quail often opens a little earlier in several zones, with expected dates around. For 2025, the season opens September 13 for Zone Q1 and runs through January 25, 2026, depending on your location.
As always, it's essential to verify the current year's opening dates for quail hunting season. For up-to-the-minute info, you can contact the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). They track the dates, and minor adjustments may occur based on regional surveys and population monitoring.
You can also Google "When is quail season in California?" for information online.
Daily Bag and Possession Limits
California sets clear limits for all upland birds to support population health and sustainable harvests.
These limits are:
Daily Bag Limit: 10 quail of any species
Possession Limit: 30 total, with no more than 10 taken per day
Always review zone-specific rules and definitions. They'll impact your limits, legal shooting hours, and allowable hunting methods.
How to Hunt Quail in California
There are as many ways to hunt quail as there are places to hunt them. Here are a few tips for a successful hunt!
California Valley Quail: Widespread in foothills, chaparral, grasslands, and agricultural zones.
Mountain Quail: Found at higher elevations, often in thick forest cover and steeper terrain.
Gambel's Quail: These quail thrive in the warmer southeastern desert regions near the Arizona border.
Learn the subtle differences between species so you can identify them accurately in overlapping areas.
Scout the Right Areas
Focus on zones that offer edge cover where brush meets open fields.
Huntable areas will have access to water and food sources, such as seeds, berries, and insects. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times to get out, especially during dry periods when birds concentrate near water.
Hunting With Dogs
A well-trained bird dog can make all the difference in locating coveys and retrieving downed birds. Both pointing and flushing breeds work well, depending on your style and preference.
Dogs can also reduce the loss of wounded birds and speed up your search in thicker vegetation.
Gear Tips
You'll need some gear unique to bird hunting.
Your gear kit should include:
Shotgun: A 20- or 12-gauge with an improved cylinder or modified choke is ideal.
Ammo: Use 7.5 or 8 shot, since quail are small and fast.
Clothing: Breathable, durable layers and rugged hiking boots make a long day in the field more comfortable.
Essentials: Always wear a blaze orange vest or game pouch, and bring water, snacks, and plenty of shells.
One important thing to remember is that you'll usually need more ammo than you think.
Quail Hunting Safety Tips
Upland hunting often involves multiple people, fast-moving birds, and unpredictable terrain.
Be aware of your surroundings. Always know the location of your hunting partners and dogs. Make sure that you've discussed communication and use blaze orange for visibility, even when not required by law.
Shoot smart. Never fire at ground movement or low-flying birds through brush. Identify your target clearly and keep muzzles pointed in a safe direction.
Stay hydrated and oriented. Especially in dry or remote areas, bring more water than you think you'll need and use a reliable app along with GPS and maps.
Know where you're allowed to hunt. Respect private land and remain within the bounds of legally designated public access areas.
Take a Hunter Education Course. California requires two parts to the certification requirements. You can complete the required classroom portion online from the comfort of your own home, and follow up with the in-person part afterward.
Follow these key tips for a successful quail hunting season in California!
Hunter-Ed Helps You Stay Safe for a Successful Quail Hunting Season, California
Get ready for a great time! If you're planning your first quail hunting season, California is a good choice. Even if you're a seasoned bird hunter used to flushing coveys, the Golden State is a fantastic spot. Quail are flat-out fun to hunt here, and they're delicious, too.
With bag limits, zone differences, species identification, and gear prep, there's a lot to manage, but that's part of what makes hunting the state bird so rewarding. When you hunt it legally, safely, and ethically, you're protecting the future of upland bird hunting for everyone.
Before heading out, make sure you've met your hunter education requirements. Take the California online course through Hunter-Ed! It's a fun way to build confidence, build knowledge, and start your season off right.
Then, complete your certification through the state's in-person options.
