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 organization’s 58th annual hunt in Enid starting Monday, November 10, 2025. This event marks a significant tradition in Oklahoma’s outdoor sports culture, bringing together hunters from across the nation and beyond. More than 60 participants from various states will gather at ranches within an 80-mile radius of Enid, aiming to experience the thrill of quail hunting over four days of events.
This year, the hunt kicks off with all new and past shooters required to register and attend a traditional new shooter orientation on the first day. The event provides a welcoming environment for those new to quail hunting, here branded as “bobbies” — a playful nod to the bobwhite quail species hunted during the season. Longtime participant Lynn Phillips has shared his excitement, “The initiation of the new shooters is a fun, tongue-in-cheek event.” His commitment to the hunt extends beyond participation, as he also trains hunting dogs and provides property for the shoot.
Among the cohorts this year is Ash Cooper from Canada, a former rodeo clown and western artist. Cooper's involvement adds an interesting layer to the hunt, blending artistic expression with the tradition of outdoor sports. The community aspect of the hunt is emphasized through shared experiences and networking among hunters, reinforcing relationships within this vibrant community.
The first hunt day unfolds on Tuesday at various ranches, where hunters will engage in the challenge of tracking and shooting quail. Following the day’s hunt, participants will convene for an evening reception featuring a silent auction that supports the Grand National Quail Foundation. Proceeds from this fundraiser will aid in wildlife conservation efforts, which are crucial given the fluctuating quail populations as reported by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.
Wednesday’s activities will take place at the Grand National Gun Club north of Enid. Here, hunters will showcase their shooting skills in a trap shooting competition while allowing the quail an opportunity to recover ahead of Thursday’s main hunting event. Each participant is permitted to shoot six quail, competing not only for triumph in hunting but also in marksmanship.
Jay Colvert, the club's President, reports encouraging signs regarding local quail populations. He cites the benefits of recent weather patterns, stating, “Weather patterns in our part of the state brought timely rains that led to excellent conditions for the nesting season.” This encouraging news comes after nearly six years of drought conditions, resulting in an optimistic quail population that is purportedly the highest since 2016, according to the Oklahoma Wildlife Department's annual survey.
Oklahoma’s quail season officially opens on Saturday and continues until February 15, 2026, with substantial participation expected due to this year's promising outlook. The presence of the Grand National Quail Club further solidifies Oklahoma's reputation as a premier location for quail hunting, serving both seasoned hunters and newcomers eager to learn about the sport.
As hunters gather to celebrate tradition, camaraderie, and conservation, this annual quail hunt is not just about the sport; it’s a vital component of Oklahoma's outdoor culture that encourages appreciation for wildlife and responsible hunting practices.
The upcoming 58th annual quail hunt underscores the importance of community engagement and wildlife conservation in maintaining hunting traditions. As reported, the uptick in Oklahoma's quail population highlights the success of environmental efforts, which could signal a positive shift in the future of hunting in the region. With heightened awareness around sustainable practices, it's essential that the hunting community remains vigilant and proactive in conservation efforts to ensure these traditions endure for generations to come.