Hunting And Outdoor Sports
58th annual quail hunt begins Monday
58th annual quail hunt begins Monday
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Enid, Oklahoma
ENID, Okla. The Grand National Quail Club will host the organizations 58th annual hunt in Enid beginning Monday, Nov. 10, 2025. This annual event attracts not only local hunters but participants from all corners of the United States and beyond, emphasizing the strong bond and tradition of quail hunting in Oklahoma. The event will see the participation of over 60 hunters eager to enjoy the camaraderie that the hunt fosters. The Grand National Quail Club, with its 150 local members, plays a pivotal role in organizing this event, ensuring that it runs smoothly and remains a highlight on the hunting calendar. The quail hunt tradition has thrived since its inception in 1967, supporting both the local economy and providing hunters with valuable networking opportunities. Participants, both newcomers and seasoned shooters, will first gather for an orientation on Monday, setting an optimistic tone for the days to follow. Lynn Phillips, a veteran participant who has dedicated considerable time to training hunting dogs, emphasizes the fun aspect of welcoming newcomers, referred to as bobbies,a name derived from the bobwhite quail, which is central to the hunt. This year, Phillips is joined by his friend Ash Cooper from Canada, who brings an interesting background as a one-time rodeo clown and a current western artist. Such diverse backgrounds of participants underline the hunt's appeal across various cultures and regions. The first official hunting day is set for Tuesday, with hunting taking place across ranches within an 80-mile radius of Enid. After a day of hunting, participants will enjoy an evening reception highlighting local culture, reinforcing the community ties that are crucial to the hunts ongoing success. The reception includes a silent auction benefiting the Grand National Quail Foundation, showcasing a blend of community engagement and fundraising. The subsequent day will take place at the Grand National Gun Club, where hunters can showcase their marksmanship with a round of trap shooting. This is essential not only for confirming their skills but also for managing quail populations, giving both hunters and quails a brief respite before heading into another round of hunting on Thursday. Each participant may hunt up to six quail, adding a competitive edge to the experience. Club President, Jay Colvert, expressed optimism regarding this year's hunt, citing increased local bird numbers and favorable weather patterns leading to improved nesting conditions. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation reported a 68% increase in the statewide average quail population compared to 2024, marking the highest population since 2016. Such promising surges in quail numbers emphasize the importance of conservation efforts and local engagement in wildlife management. The quail season in Oklahoma officially begins Saturday, continuing until February 15, 2026. This event encapsulates not just a sporting endeavor but also a celebration of Oklahomas hunting culture and environmental stewardship, fostering a community of shared interests and connections across the region.