RE: Grouse, What's the secret to bagging these "fast flyers"
In years past, I shot a lot of trap. That helps tremendously when it comes to wingshooting grouse. Also, read all you can about your quarry so that you don't spend a lot of time hunting in unproductive habitat. They are "edge" animals. Food sources should be your primary consideration. Whether you choose to trap or skeet shoot.....get some practice somehow. It makes a tremendous difference. Also, it should go without saying....use an open choke shotgun... Improved cylinder, skeet, or cylinder bore. And one last secret....I'm pretty successful at partridge...be ready. Move slowly, be alert, and be prepared to throw off that safety. I have never hunted with a dog, but ususally manage to come home with multiple birds on almost every outing. Good luck!
Clint