Kansas Women’s Pheasant Hunts: Inside the Fastest Growing Trend in Upland Hunting

The Rise of Women in Pheasant Hunting

Over the past decade, the face of pheasant hunting has been changing and for the better. More women are picking up shotguns, stepping into fields, and making their mark in what was once considered a male-dominated tradition. At 10 Gauge Outfitters, we’re proud to support and welcome the growing community of female hunters who bring a fresh energy and passion to the sport. Whether it’s the thrill of the flush, the camaraderie, or the connection to nature, women are finding their own reasons to join the hunt.

Key Statistics on Women in Hunting

• Over 1.2 million women actively hunt in the United States.

Source: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, 2022 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation

• There is a 27% increase in female hunters from 2008 to 2022.

Source: National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF)

• Over 50% of new hunting license holders in some states are women.

Source: Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports, 2021

• 43% of women hunters say they were introduced to the outdoors by a male family member, but more are now joining through female-focused programs and events.

Source: Artemis Sportswomen/National Wildlife Federation

• Women now make up 19% of all hunting license holders nationwide.

Source: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

• Programs like Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) have trained over 300,000 women since launching in 1991.

Source: BOW official site (www.uwsp.edu/bow)

Why Kansas is Ideal for Women’s Pheasant Hunts

Kansas offers one of the most rewarding pheasant hunting experiences in the country, with its vast open prairies, strong pheasant populations, and welcoming hunting culture. At 10 Gauge Outfitters, we take pride in creating a comfortable, safe, and inclusive environment where women of all skill levels can thrive. 

Our expert guides are not only passionate about the hunt but also about mentoring and encouraging new hunters. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or stepping into the field for the first time, our lodge provides a supportive, high-quality experience tailored to your needs, from luxury accommodations to dog-handling tips and guided hunts designed for success. The camaraderie among women in the field is real, and Kansas is the perfect place to experience it.

Supportive Hunting Communities and Organizations 

• Shoot Like A Girl – Provides hands-on shooting experiences for women across the country and promotes confidence through education.
  Website: www.shootlikeagirl.com
• Artemis Sportswomen (National Wildlife Federation) – A network of women hunters and anglers who advocate for conservation and mentorship.
  Website: www.artemissportswomen.org
• Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) – Offers workshops and retreats to introduce women to outdoor skills, including hunting and shooting sports.
  Website: www.uwsp.edu/bow
• The Sisterhood of the Outdoors – Organizes guided hunts, mentorship, and educational content specifically for women.
  Website: www.sisterhoodoutdoors.com
• Women’s Hunting and Sporting Association – Encourages women’s participation in all shooting and hunting sports through events and networking.
  Website: www.whsa.info

What to Expect on a Women’s Pheasant Hunting Trip

At 10 Gauge Outfitters, women’s pheasant hunts are all about comfort, confidence, and connection. You’ll enjoy expert-guided hunts on beautiful, walkable terrain with well-trained dogs, plus access to top-tier gear and loaner shotguns if needed. Our lodge offers cozy accommodations and home-cooked meals, creating a relaxing space to unwind and bond with fellow hunters. Whether you’re brand new to upland hunting or a seasoned pro, our team tailors every experience to make you feel welcome, supported, and ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Kansas prairie.

Typical Daily Itinerary

Your day at 10 Gauge Outfitters starts with a hearty breakfast while our team gets your gear loaded and ready. As the sun rises, you’ll step into the fields to watch our German Shorthairs work through a mix of CRP grasslands and row crops. After a thrilling morning and likely a limit of roosters, it’s back to the lodge in Kinsley for a well-earned lunch. If you’ve arranged a quail hunt, we’ll head back out in the afternoon once everyone’s fueled up. Evenings are all about comfort, hot dinners, cold drinks, and good stories.

Guided Hunts and Skill Development 

Every pheasant hunt is guided by experienced professionals who are as passionate about teaching as they are about the sport itself. Our guides offer hands-on instruction in firearm safety, shooting technique, bird identification, and working with hunting dogs, making it the perfect environment for both beginners and those looking to sharpen their skills. Whether you’re learning how to lead a flushing pheasant or want tips on improving your accuracy, we meet you at your experience level and help you grow with every hunt. It’s more than just a guided trip, it’s an opportunity to build confidence and become a more capable hunter, one flush at a time.

Lodging and Amenities Tailored for Women

Our lodge is designed with relaxation and convenience in mind, featuring private or semi-private rooms, clean modern bathrooms, and cozy common areas perfect for unwinding after the hunt. Home-cooked meals, hot coffee, and warm hospitality are just part of the experience. We understand that details matter, which is why we offer thoughtful touches like gear storage, laundry facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere where women can feel at home, whether traveling solo or with a group. It’s more than a place to stay, it’s part of what makes the hunt memorable.

Essential Gear and Preparation Tips for Women Hunters

We recommend gear that’s both functional and tailored to women’s needs. Start with an orange upland vest or jacket, moisture-wicking base layers, and durable brush pants. Waterproof boots with good ankle support are a must, especially for walking the Kansas prairie. Don’t forget eye and ear protection and gloves for cooler mornings. If you’re bringing your own shotgun, make sure it’s properly sized for your frame, many women prefer 20 gauge or lighter 12 gauge models. Most importantly, come with an open mind and a readiness to learn, everything else, we’ll help you with.

Recommended Clothing and Equipment 

To stay comfortable and confident in the field, having the right gear is key. Here’s what we recommend for women joining a pheasant hunt at 10 Gauge Outfitters:

• Upland Hunting Vest or Shell Jacket: Look for women-specific cuts with blaze orange and ample shell pockets.
• Brush Pants: Designed to handle thick cover and thorny terrain.
• Moisture-Wicking Base Layers: Helps regulate temperature during active hunts.
• Insulated Waterproof Boots: Comfortable, broken-in boots with good traction are essential.
• Blaze Orange Hat or Cap: Required for safety and visibility.
• Shooting Gloves: Keeps your hands warm and protected.
• Eye and Ear Protection: Lightweight shooting glasses and ear plugs or electronic muffs.
• Neck Gaiter or Buff: Great for wind protection and layering.
• 20 or 12 Gauge Shotgun: Preferably lightweight and properly fitted..
• Small Day Pack: For water, snacks, and personal items.

Safety Considerations and Best Practices

Safety is the top priority when pheasant hunting at 10 Gauge, especially for women new to the sport. Always wear blaze orange clothing to ensure visibility to other hunters and keep your firearm’s muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times. Communicate clearly with your group before flushing birds and establish a safe zone of fire to avoid accidents. Be mindful of dogs in the field, practice proper firearm handling, and never shoot at low-flying birds where other hunters or dogs may be in the line of fire. Following these best practices ensures a safe, enjoyable hunt for everyone involved.

How to Find the Right Outfitter For Your Female Group

Finding the right outfitter for your women’s pheasant hunting group is key to having a safe, successful, and memorable trip. Look for an outfitter who understands the needs of female hunters and offers a welcoming, supportive environment for all experience levels. 

It’s important to choose a team that provides quality gear, experienced guides, and a strong focus on safety and comfort. At our operation, we have the experience and knowledge to guide all types of hunters from first-timers to seasoned shooters and we tailor each hunt to match your group’s goals and skill levels. With the right outfitter, your trip becomes more than just a hunt, it becomes a lasting adventure.

Booking Your Women’s Pheasant Hunt in Kansas with 10 Gauge Outfitters

Booking your women’s pheasant hunt in Kansas with 10 Gauge ensures an experience that’s tailored specifically to your group. We combine top-tier hunting opportunities with a welcoming, supportive atmosphere for female hunters of all skill levels. Our expert guides, well-trained dogs, and comfortable lodging create the perfect setting for a successful and memorable trip. Whether it’s your first pheasant hunt or you’re a seasoned shooter, 10 Gauge Outfitters has the knowledge, equipment, and hospitality to make your Kansas pheasant hunt one you’ll want to repeat year after year.