About Ben
Where are you from?
Born & raised in the heart of Northern MN and I returned to Bemidji in 2019.
How long have you been hunting/guiding?
I shot my first grouse 38+ years ago and have been hooked ever since. I’ve been guiding for 3 years.
What do you enjoy most about guiding at Pineridge?
I really enjoy the common bond I share with the hunters and the other guides. We come together for the pursuit of the King, ruffed grouse and my favorite, the Timberdoodle. There’s nothing like watching the dogs work as a team, bringing that whole experience to life.
Q&A
How did you get started hunting grouse?
I started out riding around in the car with my parents and brother, waiting for one to show up on the road. I shot my first grouse in October 1987. It quickly became an obsession; I would go out every day when I got home from school. Now I enjoy the camaraderie shared with my Bearded Ladies (Griffons).
What keeps you coming back to the Northwoods each season?
There’s nothing more peaceful, stress-free, and rejuvenating than spending time in the Northwoods each season. It’s like returning to a place where the world slows down, and I can just reconnect with nature and myself.
What makes a great grouse dog in your opinion?
Birds, Birds, and Birds!!! I mean a dog that has genetics, no matter the breed, Griffs more than others, good dogs know how to read the cover, they’re patient, they’ve got that natural focus. It’s just a whole different level.
Early season or late season—and why?
Late season for sure. Whether it’s late Woodcock season when the migration is in full swing or late December when everyone has given up on grouse since early November. Or even an end of January hunt on the prairie.
What’s one mistake you see hunters make in grouse cover?
I would say not covering the full range of covers. Just because you have seen a bird there before doesn’t mean there will always be one there. They feed on different foods throughout the season as well as water and soil will dry up.
Describe a perfect day at Pineridge.
Any day at Pineridge is a perfect day!!! My perfect day starts with a quick breakfast and coffee then heading out into the woods. Having superb dog work presents many opportunities for hunters to bag birds. Followed by a relaxing lunch spent amongst the forest and wildlife. We would follow that up with some more great dog work with some photo ops with the bird of the day. We would return to the camp in time for appetizers and social hour. Of course, enjoying one of the amazing meals prepared by the chefs and staff. Finally, enjoy Bourbon by the fire.
Favorite gun to carry in the grouse woods?
Without question it would be my Venus 20 Gauge from Upland Gun Company. This may change in the future when I get my next one, a 28 Gauge.
Coffee at dawn or bourbon by the fire?
As a guide I really enjoy both, however the key to my heart is a Bourbon around the fire.
A hunt you’ll never forget?
I have a lot of hunts I will never forget, but the one that leads that category is hands down the time I had a major heart attack and passed out alone in the woods with my dog.
One piece of advice for someone new to grouse hunting?
If you hunt alone, be prepared, make sure you let someone know where you’re going to be and when they should expect to hear from you.
Best bird dog name you’ve heard?
Edgewood North’s Sleeps On Her Back Dolly
What makes Pineridge different?
# 1 The Havels!!! # 2 The dogs, and the guides who chase after them.