Complete Upland Hunting School at Orvis Sandanona, New York / 1-Day School

Orvis Sandanona is thrilled to offer a unique learning opportunity for anyone interested in becoming an upland bird hunter! This course divides the educational focus into two parts: in the first section, students are introduced to the basics of wingshooting including shotgun selection, safe gun handling, and effective technique as outlined by the Orvis Instinctive Method. From there, students move into the second section in which they apply the skills learned on the clays course to actual upland field hunts over working gundogs. Professional guides and instructors remain at each student's side every step of the way to provide a safe and enjoyable entry into the wonderful world of upland bird hunting.

This one-of-a-kind opportunity is offered in both a 1- and 2-day format. Orvis' elite team of instructors begins by delivering a classroom overview and safety instruction before taking students to the clays course. With shotgun in hand, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of effective wingshooting technique. Target presentations are selected to mimic the flush and flight of real gamebirds, and students will build confidence and comfort in the controlled environment of the clays course. Seasoned shooting instructors will either help students polish existing skills or teach fundamentals from the ground up. By the end of the classroom and clays course sessions, students will be ready to transfer new skills to the hunting field. Students who opt for the 1-day school will enjoy a morning session of target presentations followed by an afternoon walk-up field hunt. In the 2-day program, the first day will focus entirely on essential wingshooting skills in classroom and on the clays course, while the whole of the second day will be spent in the field alongside an instructor and dog handler/guide.

In the field, essential the skills are put into practice. Students will hunt pheasants and chukar partridge over top-notch dogs while an instructor helps steer the experience. In the 2-day program, the second day will consist of a 2-hour morning field hunt, a break for lunch in the clubhouse, and another 2-hour hunt on a different piece of the Sandanona property. Guides and instructors will help students learn how to confidently navigate cover, approach working dogs, and assess safe shots. They will also celebrate success as each bird is brought to hand!

The Orvis Complete Upland Schools represent one of the most unique opportunities available for aspiring upland hunters. These educational experiences are delivered by a team of experts committed to Orvis' trademark service standards. If you have ever dreamed of becoming an upland hunter, or if you have ever hoped to refine your skill and effectiveness in the field, Orvis can be of help. In our capable hands you too can make upland hunting a wonderful part of your life!