Colloquially known as “partridge” to many, the ruffed grouse season is open through December 31, but most of us hunt them in October. While I saw a good number of birds on my first two days of hunting above Rangeley, the jury is still out on whether this will be a good grouse year. Credit: Courtesy of Tom RothA good grouse year, in my book, is one with plenty of sightings — singles and groups of two or more. Credit: Tom RothAll in all, I had an enjoyable first two days in the grouse woods and look forward to many more, even with a moose hunt in between. A “good” grouse season isn’t just about bird numbers — it’s about being out there in the colorful, brisk October woods.