January 19, 2016 –
There are few places in North America to successfully hunt the elusive Mountain Quail. To quote Jack O’Connor, “When there’s a lot of ‘em, there still ain’t many of ‘em.” And while we heeded his words, we found more than expected. Arturo Malo, owner of Baja Hunting, hosted Carl Kilhoffer, Dan and David Higman, and me to an unforgettable bird hunt. We traveled south along the Pacific coastline until Ensenada and then moved inland through Mexico’s wine country. After a rugged, twisting drive up into the Sierras, we made it to our destination. The hunt took place in the high mountain country that borders the San Pedro Martir Parc Nacional—a park well-known for its granite rock formations, pine trees forests, and national astronomical observatory.
It was a strenuous hunt. We hiked up steep mountains and climbed over big boulders, marched through dense mansanita brush, and walked among the towering Jeffrey pines. Chasing coveys of quail at 7000 to 10,000 feet qualified this as a high country upland hunt for sure! The kicker for me was hunting in Mexico…in the snow! Each of us on the expedition collected not only majestic Mountain quail, but we also took some California Valley quail too.
Mountain quail hunting isn’t for everyone. You are physically tasked in relatively cold temperatures, and the bird count is comparatively low for the work required. However, the trip exceeded my expectations. The food was plentiful and delicious, the cabins and lodge were comfortable, and the guides knew where the birds were and their habits. The mountains and scenery were spectacular; the attached photos do not do them justice. If anyone is interested in a true upland adventure…this is the one!
Arturo hosted other groups besides the Mountain quail hunt, and our hunters reported fantastic trips for valley quail, Gambel’s quail, pheasant and doves. After another great season in the Baja, these hunts proved to be a superb value and deliver the highest volume “wild” bird hunting in North America. I plan on hunting the Baja every season. Bringing guns is easy and recommended. See more information here.
2015 was a super year for our hunters. Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay provided sensational shooting; Africa’s exceptional big-game experiences are unmatched; Europe’s history and tradition is in a league of its own; North American hunting is better than ever in many places; and New Zealand never fails to impress. Our anglers who traveled to faraway places for trout, bonefish, and permit reported great fishing too. My network of outfitters and guides are committed to excellence and creating lifetime memories for my friends and hunters.
Wishing you good hunting in 2016.
Gordie
