My GSP is breaking point too early on pheasants

I've been hunting with my 2-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer for two seasons now, and he's solid on quail and chukar. But when we get into heavy cover for pheasants, he's breaking point and flushing birds at about 15 yards instead of holding steady. I'm shooting a Beretta A400 Xcel with an IC choke and Federal Premium 1-1/4 oz #5 loads. I've tried working on whoa commands in the yard, but it's not translating to the field.

SCS
Sporting Clays Steve asked 3 months ago
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1 Answer

That's a super common issue with versatile breeds on running birds like pheasants. What worked for my Vizsla was using a check cord in actual pheasant cover - have a buddy plant some birds, then work on stopping him the moment he goes on point. Keep the pressure light but consistent. Also, try switching to a tighter choke like Modified when you know you're after pheasants - gives you a better chance if he does flush early. How's his obedience on other commands in the field?

LL
Learning Larry answered 3 months ago

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