About Tom
I’m Tom McPherson, from Butler, Pennsylvania. This will be my 6th season guiding, 2nd at Pineridge. My favorite part about coming to guide at Pineridge last fall was the people-I love hearing everyone’s stories.
Q&A
How did you get started hunting grouse?
I got started Grouse hunting through fly-fishing. One of my favorite flies is tied with grouse feathers.
What keeps you coming back to the Northwoods each season?
I make the trip every year for the abundant habitat and bird contacts for my dogs. It’s an incredible place!
What makes a great grouse dog in your opinion?
From the handler’s standpoint- Patience, consistency, and grouse contacts. From the dogs standpoint- intelligence.
Early season or late season—and why?
Early season, I love being in the woods in the fall.
What’s one mistake you see hunters make in grouse cover?
Stopping short of the dog. They are nice to look at, but the bird is out in front of them.
Describe a perfect day at Pineridge.
Getting out with some new friends and dogs to experience the upland lifestyle and chase the king of upland birds. Then coming back to camp, to relax around the fire, tell stories, and have some amazing food.
Favorite gun to carry in the grouse woods?
SxS 28 G
Coffee at dawn or bourbon by the fire?
I’ve been known to have bourbon by the fire- especially after a successful hunt, but you’re most likely to catch me for coffee at dawn
A hunt you’ll never forget?
There are many that come to mind – First grouse over my first dog is pretty hard to beat.
One piece of advice for someone new to grouse hunting?
Just keep walking- Every step you take is one step closer to the next flush.
Best bird dog name you’ve heard?
Not sure if there is a best, but we named our first setter Timber.
What makes Pineridge different?
The people, the atmosphere, the Northwoods.