Commonly Asked Questions
If your question isn’t answered here, call us at (270) 361-1122. We’d rather talk it through.
Do I need a hunting license?
No. No license is required to hunt at Backcountry — just show up ready to go.
How long is a half-day hunt?
About 2.5 to 3 hours. Morning hunts start around 8:30–9:00 AM and run until 11:30, followed by lunch. Afternoon hunts begin with lunch, then hit the field around 1:00 PM.
How many hunters can come?
Our rates cover a party of up to four. Two hunters or four, the price is the same — you are buying the day, the dogs, and the ground, not a seat. A fifth or sixth gun is $500 per half-day session. Larger groups can be arranged; just ask.
How many birds will we see?
A half day typically produces 12 to 18 covey rises. Weather, dogs, and how hard your group pushes all move that number — but that is a normal day at Backcountry.
What is the bag limit?
Backcountry is an unlimited bag operation. Hunters are encouraged to go big — breaking the course record is welcomed.
What shotguns are allowed?
Over/under or side-by-side shotguns in 20, 28, or .410 gauge are preferred. Semi-automatics are allowed but must remain open and unloaded while on the course.
Are new hunters welcome?
Yes. Our guides take extra care to educate and explain for beginners.
Is gear available to rent?
No, we do not provide rental gear at the preserve.
Can I bring my own dog?
Yes. Guests are welcome to bring their own dogs. Hunts are tailored to each group’s needs. You can run your dog solo or in rotation with ours. Our guides ensure a smooth, safe, and personalized experience for both dog and hunter. We also offer kenneling and overnight care for your dog while staying overnight, at no extra charge.
What is the food like?
Our on-site chef cooks everything from scratch, with dry-aged prime beef from Rian’s Fatted Calf and vegetables from farms nearby. Chef-crafted meals, a warm fire, and true Southern hospitality.
Do you offer unguided hunts?
No. The Backcountry course covers hundreds of acres of native habitat and is best navigated by our guides. We pride ourselves on being a curated, high-end upland hunting experience with serious attention to detail, safety, and bird work.
Do you take deposits?
A 50% deposit reserves your dates. The balance is due before your hunt or at check-in. Kentucky sales tax of 6% applies.
Should I tip the guides?
Gratuity is not included. If your guide made the day, 15–20% is customary and always appreciated.
What cities are you close to?
We are located 30 minutes east of Bowling Green, an hour and a half from Nashville, and two hours south of Louisville. All with convenient access to and from I-65.
A few more things worth knowing
- Rates cover the party — up to four hunters, one price
- One group on the fields at a time: your guide, your dogs, your coveys
- A 50% deposit holds your dates; balance due at check-in, plus 6% KY sales tax
- Guide gratuity of 15–20% is customary