I rarely hunt over dogs and I hunt with a group of about 4-6 hunters everytime that seems to cover the ground pretty good. If you dont have a dog you will most likely lose a couple birds here and there do to the fact that when a bird is hit they instinctively bury into the thick grass to hide. If you do have a lot of guys then have someone block and walk towards them so that the pheasant can not run infront and get away. If you hunt without a dog you are going to have to know the birds real well in your area if you want to be successful. You can be success with time out in the field!