These bird dogs were on point in northwest Oklahoma last weekend for the opening of quail season. Scenting conditions were not ideal for dogs last weekend but there were plenty of quail to chase. Hunters across western Oklahoma called it the best season opener in many years. [Photo provided]

The opening weekend of quail season lived up to the pre-season hype for most hunters.

The survey reports and anecdotal evidence suggesting a big boost in the quail population in western Oklahoma was validated last weekend as the quail season opened.

“The numbers were outstanding,” said Scott Cox, upland bird biologist for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. “What we were seeing on surveys is what is being reported out in the field. There is a lot of birds.”

Scenting conditions, however, were tough for dogs on opening weekend.