The taking of wild game is restricted during selected periods of the year for nearly every species. Knowing when to shoot and having the right equipment can make all the difference. To make the most of your sporting year, we’ve provided a detailed calendar of game seasons. Peak periods for each species are indicated where appropriate.
Tips for making the most of your shooting expeditions:
-
- Invest in the right equipment.The best gun for each shooter is different. The type of game you’re after, as well as personal preferences such as grip, size and calibration will help determine what is right for you.
- Protect your investment.Once you’ve invested in quality shooting equipment, help to keep it like new with the Decoy Shotgun and Rifle Cleaning Set. Make sure to insure your equipment for accidental damage.
- Find the right clothes. Your shooting clothing should not just provide protection from the elements, but should reflect your personality with quality and class. Read our Clothing Guides for a series of ArdMoor hints and tips.
“There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.”
– Sir Ranulph Fiennes
For tweed lovers, we recommend the Alan Paine Rutland Gents Tweed Shooting Jacket. If a more technical jacket is more your style, go with the Alan Paine Berwick Waterproof Coat.
Game Shooting Calendar
Species |
Area |
Season |
Peak Season |
Pheasant |
England, Scotland, Wales |
Oct 1st – Feb 1st |
Late Oct – Christmas |
Pheasant |
N. Ireland (Cocks Only) |
Oct 1st – Jan 31st |
|
Partridge |
UK-wide |
Sept 1st – Feb 1st |
September & October |
Duck |
UK-wide |
Sept 1st – Jan 31st |
|
Woodcock |
England, Wales, N. Ireland |
Oct 1st – Jan 31st |
|
Woodcock |
Scotland |
Sept 1st – Jan 31st |
|
Grouse |
England, Scotland, Wales |
Aug 12th – Dec 10th |
Aug 12th – Sept 1st |
Grouse |
N. Ireland |
Aug 12th – Nov 30th |
Aug 12th – Sept 1st |
Common Snipe |
England, Scotland, Wales |
Aug 12th – Jan 31st |
|
Common Snipe |
N. Ireland |
Sept 1st – Jan 31st |
|
Jack Snipe |
N. Ireland Only |
Sept 1st – Jan 31st |
|
Wildfowling |
UK-wide |
Sept 1st – Feb 20th |