Have you smoked the pheasant yet?  I have had and used a number of smokers over the years.  Like many good things, the results can be delicious, but the process takes time.me.
Anyway, curious about the pheasant, as I have plenty and need some new recipes.
I have never smoke pheasant, as they are so lean and dry to start with.  Many of the meats that smoke well are fairly fatty.  Brining salmon overnight with a little brown sugar works very well. 

Just curious, hope the birds turn out well.