ag...no idea about manyberries or cypress hills (SW part of ABby the way not SE). I have heard it's a pretty cool place, big friggin hills in the middle of bald ass prairie. Generally known for it's elk and pronghorn. I'd guess it holds a nice whitetail or two but no experience to speak of myself, sorry.
As for hunting pheasants...yup I have never had a dog and have usually faired out pretty well. We do a few different things, usually alot of hard walking and pushing bush. Sometimes we'll see them in fields hedgerows & ditches and go after them. Smart birds though!! If you ever get the chance to go after them you will be hooked. A rooster breaking out at your feet (literally) cackling & flapping like mad will scare the hell out of you, but I just love when it happens. Works well if you know how to do it but it's definately nicer to hunt with a pointer. I'm pretty beat by the end of the day, but they taste great!!!