Where are you looking to hunt Merriams? I moved from out west(WA state) several years ago. Double Barrel Ranch in eastern WA is a top notch outfitter for Merriams and upland bird. They have already killed some monster birds this year. The website is
www.uplandbirdranch.com/ also check them out on FB. Ask for Joe the "birdman", good guy and great guide. I have killed a pile of birds on their land.