FAQ's
While your guided hunt with Dirt Road Outfitters includes lodging, access to prime hunting grounds, and expert guidance, the following items are not included:
Hunting licenses and permits
Transportation fees to a game processor, Taxidermy services,
Holding fees or shipping fees for game or personal belongings, Gratuity for your guide.
Please note that any game left at the farmhouse will incur a holding fee, and shipping costs must be paid in advance before meat, taxidermy, or personal items can be sent back to you. If you have any questions about these additional costs, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to clarify!
What’s not included in my hunt?
South Central Kansas offers a diverse and rich environment that’s ideal for wildlife and hunting. The land features a mix of irrigated and dryland agriculture, including wheat, corn, soybeans, alfalfa, and grain sorghum. This consistent crop production not only supports the excellent genetics of whitetail deer but also provides an abundance of food and cover, allowing wildlife to thrive. After feeding, deer often relocate to thick plum thickets or pockets of timber, making the area a prime hunting destination.
The terrain consists of gently rolling hills with water sources nearby, creating a balanced habitat for a variety of game.
For any supplies or dining needs, the nearest grocery store and restaurants are located in Pratt, just south of Stafford. This ensures you have access to essentials during your trip.
What is the area like?
Kansas weather can vary widely depending on the season, so it’s important to come prepared for all conditions. Here’s what to expect:
- September–October (Muzzleloader Season):Cool mornings and evenings, with daytime temperatures averaging 60–80°F.
- November (Archery Season): Classic fall weather, ranging from chilly teens to the 50s.
- December (Rifle & Archery Season): Winter sets in with temperatures from single digits to the 40s. Snow is possible during this time.
Kansas is in the Midwest, where weather can change drastically in a matter of minutes. We strongly recommend bringing versatile gear to prepare for anything from sunny days to sudden cold fronts.
Lastly, a friendly reminder: while we do everything we can to ensure a successful hunt, weather is beyond our control. If conditions affect your hunt, please remember that your guide is doing their best to adapt to the circumstances. Weather is simply part of the adventure!
What type of weather can I expect during my hunt?
In this part of Kansas, the peak rut typically occurs around November 15th. However, it’s not uncommon to see bucks actively chasing does well into the December rifle season, making for exciting hunting opportunities even later in the year.
When is the rut?
This is a fair-chase hunt with no high fences, so while we cannot guarantee a harvest, Dirt Road Outfitters has an impressive track record. Our hunters have achieved a 90% success rate on bucks ranging from 145 to 170 class, with the potential for larger trophies. As always, the outcome depends on the hunt, but we do everything we can to set you up for success.
What size deer can I expect to shoot?
At Dirt Road Outfitters, we prioritize quality over quantity. Unlike other outfitters, we don’t pack our camps with large numbers of hunters. Most weeks, there are only 2–4 hunters in camp, allowing us to focus on providing you with ample opportunities to pursue a trophy whitetail deer. This small camp size ensures a more personalized and rewarding hunting experience.
How many other hunters can I expect in camp during my hunt?
Yes, there are several options for sporting goods stores near our location:
Pratt: A Walmart for basic hunting supplies and essentials.
Hutchinson: Heartland Outdoors, located between our area and Wichita.
Wichita: Both a new Cabela’s and a Scheels for a wider selection of gear.
Whether you need last-minute supplies or just want to browse, these stores have you covered.
Is there a sporting goods store nearby?
When traveling with your gun, follow these important guidelines:
Pack your gun in a crash-resistant plastic or metal case that locks securely. Avoid using inexpensive cases that may not adequately protect your firearm.
Arrive at the airport early to allow time for your gun to be inspected by TSA before being placed on the airplane.
Check with your airline for specific regulations regarding the transport of firearms and ammunition, as their policies may vary.
For detailed information, visit the official TSA guidelines for traveling with firearms.
By planning ahead, you can ensure your firearm arrives safely and in compliance with all regulations.
How do I get my gun there?
Proper preparation is key to a successful hunt. Here are our recommendations:
Ensure Accuracy: Make sure your rifle is shooting consistently and accurately with your chosen ammunition. If it’s not, try different ammo until you find what works best. Bowhunters should practice with the same broadheads they plan to hunt with.
Practice Realistic Scenarios: Get off the bench! Practice shooting from positions you’ll encounter in the field, such as sitting, kneeling, or using a tree limb or trunk for support. Invest in a good pair of shooting sticks and practice using them.
Quick Target Acquisition: Work on quickly getting your scope on target and taking the shot within 2–3 seconds. Many trophies are lost because hunters take too long trying to achieve the perfect shot. Remember, mature game won’t wait around while you aim.
Ultimately, ensure your rifle fits well, shoots accurately, and that you’re confident shooting quickly and effectively in field conditions. These steps will give you the best chance at success on your hunt.
What type of shooting practice should I do to prepare for my hunt?
Airlines typically restrict the amount of ammunition you can carry by weight, so check with your airline for specific guidelines. Most hunters bring 40 to 60 rounds for their hunt.
For the best performance, we recommend using premium-grade ammunition loaded with bullets such as Barnes X, Swift A-Frame, or Nosler Partition. Choose a 165-200 grain bullet—whichever your rifle shoots most accurately.
Properly selected and tested ammunition ensures you’re prepared for a successful hunt.
How much and what type of ammunition should I bring?
In Kansas, the minimum caliber rifle allowed by law is .243. Be sure your chosen rifle meets this requirement and is capable of taking down game humanely and effectively.
If you have any questions about caliber selection, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help!
