Sometimes events require us to alter the schedule. We will regularly update the calendar below with the status of the current release. If pheasants will not be released on a scheduled day, the calendar below will reflect that change after 2 pm on the release date. 

If there is no notification on the release calendar, hunters can expect birds to be released as scheduled.
Personnel generally release birds after the close of shooting hours on the release day (after 2 pm). Birds are released on Sand Mesa throughout the area directly north of Bass Lake and at all public access sites along Ocean Lake's west and north side except the boat ramp.

Of the pheasant released, 40-45% are typically males and the remaining 55-60% are females. Any pheasant may be taken on the Sand Mesa and Ocean Lake WHMAs during release (check your regulations for specific dates).

Over 3700 pheasants have been released on the Sand Mesa and Ocean Lake WHMAs annually since 1996. However, 2011 was an exception because of fewer birds available statewide and the need for brood stock at the Downar Bird Farm near Yoder.