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My name is Blaine Larson, and I’m an experienced pheasant hunter. South Dakota is renowned among upland hunters as the pheasant capital of the world. Some say I was practically born in a pheasant field. Hunting these birds has been a lifelong passion for me, tracing back to my earliest memories of walking alongside my father and grandfather as they marched across the fields, guns in hand. Today, I jest with those who hunt alongside me, claiming to be the greatest pheasant hunter alive. While my aim may falter at times, my unwavering love and passion for the sport remain constant.

I make this bold claim because of the incredible and memorable moments that one encounters on a hunt. Picture this: the conditions are perfect, the birds are setting tight. Sometimes, I can get on my knee and slowly part the grass or cover, gradually exposing the rooster ready for flight. Behind me, my English Setters stand like statues, each in different poses, as they hold strong to the scent of that elusive pheasant. Their beautiful colors, with just the feathers on their tails slightly moving in the breeze. When others inquire about this moment, I explain: that bird is thinking if I stay still and stop running, that dog chasing me probably won’t find me, so I won’t have to expose myself and fly. The dog is thinking if I stop and don’t move any closer, that bird I’m chasing maybe won’t keep running or fly.

For those witnessing this hypnotic paralysis standoff between bird and dog, it makes that moment an unbelievable, beautiful experience for all. I then assert, this is why I consider myself the finest pheasant hunter alive. It’s not merely about the number of birds brought down; it’s about embracing the intricacies of nature unfolding around you on that special day in the field. Whether you’re walking in the pheasant fields hunting with your English Setter or a non-hunter sitting in your living room who has selected an English Setter for a household companion; the beauty, intelligence, demeanor, calmness, loyalty, softness, and warmth of an English Setter will make anyone thankful that they have one.