Pheasant Hunting in Pennsylvania:
A Day to Remember
The Setting: Our Hunt
The crisp November air, golden stubble fields and the steady point of a well-trained dog: there’s something deeply satisfying about upland bird hunting in Pennsylvania. The recent group hunt hosted by Hunter Nation at Trophy Mountain Upland Bird Hunts was nothing short of memorable. Below, you’ll find the full story, blended with some first-hand social-media moments and a bit of context on pheasant hunting and the significance of Sunday hunting in the Keystone State.
We arrived early on a Sunday morning at Trophy Mountain Upland Bird Hunts, the field shimmering with frost, eager dogs at heel, and a sense of anticipation in the air. Walking the fields, we observed dense cover: tall grasses, scattered fence lines, and neighboring woodlots ideal for upland work. The hunting party included experienced handlers and well-trained dogs:
“I was able to catch up with our group of hunters out in the field. … guide Mark Wheland doing some terrific dog handling.” -Hunter Nation Pennsylvania State Director, Dan Sneath
A Brief History of Pheasant Hunting in Pennsylvania
Pheasant hunting in Pennsylvania has its roots in early 20th-century wildlife management, when game agencies and sportsmen worked to establish viable upland-bird populations. These efforts involved habitat management, planting of pheasants, and coordination with private landowners.
It’s worth noting that upland bird hunting remains a valued component of Pennsylvania’s hunting heritage. The state’s wildlife agency—Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC)—continues to manage resources and provide opportunities through stocking and habitat programs.
Why Sunday Hunting Matter in Pennsylvania
Here’s where the policy context comes into play. For many years, Pennsylvania had strong restrictions on Sunday hunting, a relic of “blue laws” intended to restrict certain activities on Sundays.
Recently, significant change occurred:
- On July 9, 2025, Governor Josh Shapiro signed legislation (Act 36 of 2025) that repealed Pennsylvania’s longstanding prohibition on Sunday hunting, giving the PGC authority to establish Sunday hunting days.
- For the 2025-26 license year, the PGC has approved a total of 13 Sundays (Sept. 14 through Dec. 7) during which hunting (for most species) is permitted in addition to normal season days.
- Important caveat: migratory game birds (ducks, geese, etc.) remain excluded from Sunday hunting.
So, why does this matter? Because Sunday hunting opens access for many hunters who work or have commitments on Saturdays, supports recruitment of younger hunters, and provides more opportunity to make memories in the field.
For our pheasant-hunt group, holding the event on a Sunday meant more participation, less conflict with other weekend commitments, and a larger, more inclusive gathering of folks who shared a love of upland birds, dogs and fellowship.
Our day at Trophy Mountain Upland Bird Hunts with Hunter Nation wasn’t just about bagging pheasants, it was about standing in the field with comrades, dogs pointing, birds flushing, and realizing the full value of Sunday access. The new Sunday hunting opportunities in Pennsylvania add doors, widen the path, and ensure that upland traditions stay vibrant and inclusive
