Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to recommended gauges, in our experience, we find 20 and 28 gauge shotguns are ideal for quail hunting. Knowing quail are relatively small birds and most shots are within 30 yards, we discourage the use of 12 gauge shotguns.

Regarding the type of shotgun that is best suited for quail hunting, we recommend double-guns: over/unders or side-by-side shotguns. Double-guns allow all members of the hunting party to easily recognize when the firearm may be ready to fire and also minimizes uncertainty related to number of rounds that may or may not be loaded. For indivuals who only own semi-automatics or pumps, we will provide use of lodge double-guns free of charge.

In terms of ammunition, it’s important to understand bobwhite quail are small in size and reside in a relatively warm climate, therefore, heavy loads are not necessary. We find 7 1/2 or 8 shot with 3/4 ounce of powder is well suited for the sport.

Guests may bring their own ammunition and shotgun or use one of the rentals available onsite. We offer 20 & 28 gauge over-unders for rental and stock .410, 28, 20, and 16 gauge.

Beginning in the fall of 2023, we will no longer stock 12 gauge ammunition.

Yes, the Department of Natural Resources requires all of our guests to purchase a Shooting Preserve License directly from the State of Georgia. Please visit gooutdoorsgeorgia.com to purchase a Shooting Preserve License.

The minimum age to hunt at Rio Piedra Plantation is 10 years old. For children aged 10 to 12, an unarmed parent or guardian over 18 must walk immediately behind the child and always provide direct supervision during the hunt. Guests aged 13 to 15 must complete a hunter education course prior to visiting Rio Piedra and we ask that a parent or guardian accompany them on the hunt (the parent or guardian may shoot as well). Guests 16 to 25 must possess a hunter education certificate.

We are open from mid-October through mid-March. Please contact us with a rough timeframe that works for you. We will immediately provide you with multiple date options to pick and choose from. Do let us know the number of shooters and the number of nights and days of hunting desired. For more information about the Georgia quail hunting season, visit here.

Rio Piedra’s Commitment to Health & Safety

While we are pleased to see many positive developments in the fight against COVID-19, please know our commitment to your health and safety remains, as always, the top priority of our team. Because it is our mission to serve as an unrivaled sanctuary where our guest may relax and unwind, please find peace of mind in knowing we will continue those successful enhancements that contributed to a safe and healthy 2020/2021 season for our guests and staff.

Enhanced Safety and Cleanliness

We will maintain a number of measures focused on intensified hygiene standards which include: hand sanitizer stations for guests and staff, investments in air purification, frequent cleaning and disinfecting of all high touch surfaces. Additionally, the health of all team members will be closely monitored.

Arrival and Departure

We will continue measures that streamlined our check-in/check-out process and collect reservation details prior to arrival.

Housekeeping

We remain committed to delivering the highest level of service and will continue to do so while incorporating best practices from our partner, Ecolab. That said, we do recognize some guests may prefer not to have team members enter their room during their stay and, if so, we will adjust service upon request.

Hunting

Fortunately, physical distancing is a bit of a prerequisite when it comes to hunting. Regardless, our team is committed to ensuring your wellbeing while in the field and remains committed to the proper sanitization of all vehicles.

Yes, we offer different types of instruction based on skill level, but first and foremost, safety is our top priority at Rio Piedra. We require all of our guests watch a safety video prior to their first hunt. Beyond that, our team of highly-trained huntsmen is ready to help new hunters and veterans alike get the most out of their quail hunt. From helping to improve shooting skills to lining up the perfect shot, our hunting guides can make the difference between just another hunt and an unforgettable experience. Guests also have the option of working with one of our Orvis-certified shooting instructors in a private setting. Contact us to reserve a time slot. For more information about the quail hunting guides and safety, visit here.

While there is no limit to the number of birds you can shoot, we do offer a twelve-bird privilege. There will be a small charge for additional birds.

Rio Piedra’s kennels contain over 100 English Pointers, English Setters, and English Cocker Spaniels all ready to find every last bird and make your quail hunting experience the best it can possibly be. Click here to learn more about what makes our dogs the best in the business.

There is a maximum of 2 hunters per guide/Jeep. Occasionally a shooter opts to hunt solo, but pays for 2 shooters.

We would love to host your large group. Contact us and we’ll get you set up.

Hunting attire is perfectly acceptable for breakfast and lunch. During evening dinner men usually wear slacks and collared shirts. Blazers and sports coats are optional. Attire for our female guests is smart casual. Dressy denim is fine.

Yes, we have an array of Orvis and Barbour sporting apparel onsite for purchase.

Your stay at Rio Piedra is all-inclusive. We provide breakfast, lunch, post-hunt hors d’oeuvres, and dinner, as well as an expansive wine selection and open bar. We also provide soft drinks and water during the hunt. We promise you will not go hungry or thirsty during your stay with us! Should you have any specific preferences like single malt scotch or premium wines, we will be happy to pick them up for you at our wholesale cost.

Tipping is always voluntary and at a guest’s discretion. Typical guide tips are around $190 per jeep/day and wait staff/housekeeping is around $55/person/night.

Rio Piedra is a completely walkable property, and if you are staying in one of our cabins near the main lodge, you will have access to a golf cart for your convenience. During the hunt, your quail hunting guide will transport you to the hunting grounds in one of our many customized jeeps.

Yes, we are happy to accommodate most dietary restrictions. Please let us know of any restrictions a couple weeks before arrival.

Our rooms are available for guests by 1:30 pm. Check out is by 12:15 pm. We are always happy to work with you on arrival times, so please contact us if you need special arrangements.

Here’s what a typical day looks like at Rio Piedra (please note times might vary):

• 8:00 am – Breakfast
• 8:45 am – Morning hunt
• 12:15 pm - Arrive back at the lodge
• 12:30 pm – Lunch
• 2:00 pm – Afternoon hunt
• 5:15 pm – Arrive back at the lodge.
• 5:30 pm – Evening hors d’oeuvres
• 7:00 pm - Dinner

We ask for a 50% deposit at the time of booking. The remainder of your balance will be due October 1. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance, as deposits are non-refundable.

There are many ways to get in touch with us. Please click here, call us at 229-336-1677, or email at [email protected]. Knowing most of our guests rebook a year in advance, we recommend booking as early as possible to ensure availability of dates. We look forward to talking to you, and can’t wait to have you for the hunt of a lifetime!