#349 | Southern Bird Hunting: Woodcock, Rails, and the Traditions That Shape It with Patrick Hunter

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Patrick Hunter for a laid-back and insightful conversation about upland bird hunting in the Southeast. They dig into everything from family hunting traditions and first shotguns to the pursuit of elusive woodcock and what makes southern hunting so different.

Patrick Hunter is an avid upland hunter and outdoorsman based in coastal South Carolina. With a background rooted in family hunting traditions, Patrick pursues a wide range of game including woodcock, quail, ducks, and wild turkeys. By day, he works as an engineer, but he has developed a growing passion for outdoor writing, contributing to publications like the Ruffed Grouse Society and Project Upland while advocating for conservation and awareness of southern bird hunting opportunities.

Expect to Learn:

What makes bird hunting in the Southeast uniquely challenging and rewarding

How woodcock hunting can transform both hunters and their dogs

The cultural traditions behind southern hunts like dove shoots and duck hunting

Insights into lesser-known species like rails (marsh hens) and their hunting styles

Why spring turkey hunting is one of the most addictive and meaningful pursuits

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction and Early Hunting Background

[00:07:00] - First Shotguns, Bird Dogs, and Hunting Traditions

[00:13:15] - Raising Kids Around Hunting and the Outdoors