A guided upland bird hunt is booked with an outfitter, and in every state that regulates outfitting, that outfitter must hold a current license. We track 154 licensed upland bird outfitters across 5 states and publish the license number for each one, so you can verify who you are dealing with before any money changes hands.
Where to book a guided upland bird hunt
Season opening dates below come from each state’s wildlife agency. Outfitter counts come from the state licensing board where it publishes a roster, and from the state outfitter association where it does not — every listing names its own source.
| State | Licensed outfitters | Season opens | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 6 | — | View Colorado outfitters |
| Wyoming | 6 | — | View Wyoming outfitters |
12 licensed outfitters across 2 states Counts come from each state’s published outfitter roster; season dates from each state wildlife agency. Confirm an outfitter’s license with the issuing board before you book.
What to check before booking an upland bird hunt
- License status. Every listing links to the issuing board’s own record. An outfitter operating without a current license puts your hunt and your own license at risk.
- Tag availability. In much of the West an upland bird tag is draw-only, and the application deadline can fall months before the season. Ask whether the outfitter holds landowner tags or whether you need to draw your own.
- What the price covers. Guided upland bird hunts vary widely on whether lodging, meals, tags, and trophy care are included.
- Hunt area. Ask which units they operate in and how that lines up with the tag you can actually get.
Licensed outfitters by state
- Idaho upland bird hunting outfitters — 86 licensed
- Maine upland bird hunting outfitters — 49 licensed
- Montana upland bird hunting outfitters — 7 licensed
- Colorado upland bird hunting outfitters — 6 licensed
- Wyoming upland bird hunting outfitters — 6 licensed
Browse all licensed hunting outfitters by state.
For reference only. This page summarizes agency publications and is not legal advice or an official source; confirm dates, limits and fees with the state wildlife agency before you hunt. Regulations change mid-season. Send a correction if you spot an error. Disclaimer.