Do you have to gut the pheasant before you hang it?

No, you do not have to gut a pheasant before hanging it. In fact, many hunters prefer to hang the bird with its innards intact for a period, as this can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. However, it's essential to hang the pheasant in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Once you are ready to prepare the bird, you can then gut it as part of the cleaning process.