TWO DAYS | ALL INCLUSIVE | EXPERT GUIDES

LEARN HOW TO
UPLAND BIRD HUNT
IN VIRGINIA

Join us for two days at The Preserve at Crooked Run for an all-inclusive weekend of everything upland hunting—covering everything from dog handling, tactics, habitat, and more. During your tenure with us, you will learn everything you need to know for a successful hunt in the uplands of Virginia.

475 ACRES
OF PRISTINE TRAINING GROUNDS

Located only 35 minutes from Roanoke, The Preserve at Crooked Run offers an absolutely unforgettable wingshooting experience. With extensive upland bird habitat and several different target species, this location provides the perfect controlled environment to practice and hone your upland bird hunting skills.
‍
Enjoy the Stay‍

All-Inclusive experience with lodging and a private chef
Equipment rentals and hunting gear are available
NSCA Certified Instructors & professionally trained bird dogs
Orvis-designed 13-station sporting clays course and 5-stand/wobble trap

TWO DAYS OF INSTRUCTION

INTRODUCTION TO UPLAND

Whether you're an experienced wingshooter looking to take on the uplands for the first time or a complete beginner just getting into bird hunting, we custom-tailor each weekend to your group. We've teamed up to provide expert instruction on an incredible property—ensuring you're going to leave a more experienced upland hunter.

Learn habits, tactics, and habitat for grouse, woodcock, quail, and pheasant
Hands-on dog handling, training, and commands (bring your dogs)
Practice on the 13-station Sporting Clay Course & Wobble Trap
A full-day wild bird hunt or preserve quail hunt

INQUIRE BELOW

Outstanding from start to finish!! Wes and Preston worked tirelessly to provide us with everything we needed to have a great time and an incredible experience!! We had 4 guys with different skill levels in our party, and both guides tailored their feedback to each of our unique needs. In addition, they provided us with top-level equipment to keep us comfortable and a nice lunch break. I would recommend this company to anyone!

‍- LOU FRATTO

GOOGLE REVIEW

LODGING
ACCOMMODATIONS & AMENITIES

The Preserve at Crooked Run has several cabins and glamping cottages with everything you need for a comfortable stay during your weekend with us. Unwind around the fire each day with a cold beverage and good company. We have fishing gear and paddling equipment available for those who'd like to fish our lake stocked with largemouth bass and rainbow trout.

Check Lodging Collage of Images for the Preserve

Meet your Hosts
AN ORVIS-ENDORSED EXPERIENCE

WESLEY HODGES

Wes loves guiding and teaching clients something new and something better that maybe they've never done before—to shoot that unforgettable bird. With decades of experience hunting upland birds and training bird dogs, Wes is a true outdoorsman who specializes in providing an incredible experience and professional instruction for bird hunters and fly anglers alike.

TOMMY SPELLMAN

Tommy is one of the managing members of The Preserve at Crooked Run. He has a passion for creating a diverse upland habitat for birds to thrive while presenting an exciting and unique experience for his clients. Tommy also enjoys training and working his two German Shorthaired Pointers, Bo and Huck. When he is not in the field, Tommy enjoys spending time with his wife Taylor, and three children Addison, Ty and Berkley.

FAQ

WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?

Hodges Farm is located in Eagle Rock, Virginia, just under an hour outside of Roanoke.

The Preserve at Crooked Run is located in Fincastle, Virginia, 35 minutes outside of Roanoke.

Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport is under an hour away.

HOW LONG IS THE TRIP?

The trip is two days, two nights. Arrive the morning of day one and everything is taken care of until you leave the morning after night two.

WHAT ARE WE DOING ON DAY ONE?

Day one is all about instruction, training, education, and practice. Within the controlled environment of The Preserve, we'll be going over everything you need to be a successful upland bird hunter.

WHAT ARE WE DOING ON DAY TWO?

Day two we will be putting your training to the test with a controlled Preserve Hunt for quail or pheasant. The Preserve at Crooked Run does an incredible job of emulating real, wild hunts.

HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN WE BRING?

The Intro to Upland Hunting weekends are specially catered to the instruction of the discipline, therefore we're limiting our group sizes to four hunters. This ensures each hunter is getting the best education possible during their time with us.

CAN WE BRING OUR BIRD DOGS?

Yes! It's encouraged! We will be teaching essential bird dog commands, control techniques, and more!

CAN I BRING MY KIDS?

Of course! Bring your wife, partner, kids, or anyone you'd like! Each Intro to Upland Weekend has a maximum capacity of four hunters.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

All of the gear you'll need to be comfortable in the field and in the woods. Our guides and instructors will be in contact with you leading up to your stay regarding the weather. If you're brining dogs, be sure to bring everything you'll need to fully care for them during your stay with us.

DO YOU REQUIRE A DEPOSIT?

Yes, we require a 50% deposit that can be paid online, over the phone, or via check in the mail.

IS THE INTRO TO UPLAND HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE?

Yes! The Preserve at Crooked Run has varying terrain suited for all types of upland hunters.

WHAT IF THERE IS BAD WEATHER?

Here in the mountains of Virginia, we can endure some heavy rains, flooding, and snow. We do our best to plan around the weather but if for any reason we need to cancel or postpone your trip due to unsafe conditions, we will work with you to figure out a better date or get you a refund.

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?

To get a refund on your deposit, cancellations must be made at least two weeks before the booked trip date.

CAN WE KEEP THE BIRDS?

Of course! We can process your birds for you and package them for transport home or cook them for your group at the lodge. Additionally, we have a few recommended taxidermists in the area if you'd like a mount.

DO I NEED A HUNTING LICENSE?

You will need to purchase a Virginia Hunting license for your trip. If you have a question about what license to purchase, please do not hesitate to contact Wesley Hodges.

INTRO TO
UPLAND

Every Intro To Upland weekend can be extended for groups to get more time in the woods and with our guides. See our current rates below and use the form to book your weekend with us.