Episode #26 Kirby Bristow: Quail Hunting in Arizona, Review and Preview

Join us for an exciting episode as we dive into quail hunting in Arizona with Kirby Bristow, a seasoned biologist with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), and Ryan Rice, President of Arizona Quail Today. Kirby Bristow has dedicated years to wildlife management, specializing in small game species like quail. As a key figure at AZGFD, he has contributed to research and conservation initiatives, including co-authoring a pivotal study on Montezuma (Mearns’) quail management, helping balance hunting opportunities with sustainable population management.In this episode, host Ryan Rice reflects on his 2024-2025 quail hunting season, sharing insights on the challenges and highlights of pursuing Gambel’s, Scaled, and Mearns’ quail across Arizona’s diverse landscapes. Kirby provides an expert outlook for the upcoming 2025-2026 season, discussing how weather patterns, particularly monsoon rains and winter precipitation, may influence quail populations. Expect detailed updates on Gambel’s quail, which thrives in desert habitats, Scaled quail in southeastern grasslands, and the elusive Mearns’ quail, which is found in oak woodlands.We also explore the 2025-2026 hunting season dates, regulated by AZGFD, which typically run from mid-October to early February for Gambel’s and Scaled quail (October 17, 2025 – February 8, 2026, based on historical patterns) and early December to early February for Mearns’ quail (December 5, 2025 – February 8, 2026). Kirby breaks down the timing and bag limits, emphasizing the importance of ethical hunting practices.Conservation takes center stage as Kirby and Ryan discuss AZGFD’s efforts to protect quail habitats and the endangered masked bobwhite quail, with successful captive breeding and reintroduction programs at the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge. Learn how hunters contribute to conservation through wing barrel data collection, aiding AZGFD in monitoring quail reproduction and population trends.Stick around until the end for an epic story that you won’t want to miss—a tale that captures the heart and adventure of quail hunting in Arizona’s wild landscapes! Whether you’re a seasoned upland hunter or new to the sport, this episode is packed with insights, tips, and passion for Arizona’s quail.Helpful Links:Arizona Game and Fish Department – Quail Hunting Information – Official source for season dates, regulations, and conservation updates.Arizona Quail Today – Connect with Ryan Rice’s organization for quail hunting resources and community events.Southern Arizona Quail Forever – Learn about local conservation efforts and guided hunting opportunities.Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge – Information on masked bobwhite quail recovery efforts.Note: Season dates for 2025-2026 are projected based on historical AZGFD patterns (e.g., Gambel’s and Scaled quail opening the third Friday of October, Mearns’ the first Friday of December). Always verify exact dates and regulations at azgfd.com closer to the season.Connect with us: Email us at [email protected] —we'd love to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday