Michigan Wild-Released Pheasant Hunting – Thundering Aspens
Experience the wildest pheasant hunting east of the Mississippi with Hawkins Outfitters at Thundering Aspens Sportsman’s Club (TASC), located in the heart of Northern Michigan. Our Michigan Wild-Released Pheasant Hunt offers an unforgettable three-hour adventure, where you’ll chase fast-flying pheasants, quail, and chukars across diverse terrains. This isn’t your typical “put-and-take” hunt; Thundering Aspens is a private, high-quality hunting destination with a rich tradition of wild bird management, offering a genuine wild bird experience in a picturesque setting. With nearly 1,000 acres of prime hunting land and over 15,000 supplemented wild-released birds, you’ll feel like you’re in the heart of South Dakota or Iowa—without leaving the Midwest.
Join us from September 1 to January 15 (Sunday to Friday) for a thrilling hunt that will challenge both you and your gundog. Whether you’re preparing for a western hunt or simply want a wild bird experience close to home, Thundering Aspens offers an action-packed, immersive hunt that promises a true test of your skills.
Target Species
Thundering Aspens prides themselves on offering a wild bird experience like no other. The naturally reproducing pheasants, which have been thriving on the property since 1987, are supplemented each spring with additional wild-released birds to ensure a diverse and challenging hunt. You’ll find a mix of running birds, blockers, and high-flying roosters—just like you would in classic pheasant-hunting states like South Dakota or Iowa. The property is also home to wild quail and chukars, adding variety to your hunt and ensuring an exciting day afield.
Where We Hunt
Thundering Aspens Sportsman’s Club spans nearly 1,000 acres of prime upland habitat in Northern Michigan, featuring a blend of switchgrass, cornfields, and traditional “western-style” cover that’s perfect for bird flushing. The land is meticulously managed by the Wright family to provide ideal conditions for wild pheasants, quail, and chukars, with ample nesting habitat, food sources, and shelter to help the birds thrive year-round.
With over 400 naturally reproducing pheasants and 2-3 coveys of wild quail, plus the 15,000 supplemental birds released each spring, Thundering Aspens provides one of the most authentic wild bird hunting experiences you’ll find anywhere east of the Mississippi. When you step onto the grounds, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the wild uplands of the Midwest—complete with soaring pheasants, running coveys, and endless excitement.
Whether you’re using your own dogs or our seasoned guides and gundogs, the terrain at TASC ensures an exhilarating challenge with every hunt. It’s no wonder that the club has a waiting list of over 100 people eager to join—this is truly a hidden gem for wild bird hunting in Michigan.
What's Included
- Snacks
- Water/soda
- Shotgun rentals are available for an additional fee
What To Bring
Be sure to bring eye protection. You’ll also need a shotgun, along with non-toxic ammunition (this can be available for purchase at Thundering Aspens with prior notice). The weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared for anything. Layer your clothing to stay warm and dry, and be ready for the varying weather conditions of fall and winter. Whether it’s cold rain, gusty winds, or clear skies, the birds are always out there, and we’ll be ready to hunt no matter the weather.
- Eye protection
- Shotguns
- Non-toxic Ammunition (available for purchase at Thundering Aspens with prior notice)
- Alcohol (after the hunt it’s ok, but no consumption prior to using firearms)
- Drugs
Michigan Wild-Released Pheasant Hunting – Thundering Aspens FAQs
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$375 - $2250
Trip Rate
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