RE: Public Land Hunting in the MW
I guide here in South Dakota for pheasants. Later in the season I focus primarilly on public lands. You can do it without dogs, but sure is tougher. You can also road hunt and hunt the ditches here in South Dakota, this can be done without a dog.
I also guide a fair amount in Wisconsin for Ruffed Grouse & Woodcock. I do this exclusively on public land. Hunting Ruff's without a dog isn't bad. Woodcock are tough because they hold so tight.