Campania Hunting Calendar: Optimal Dates from Cilento to Matese Mountains, Tips and Events

Campania is a region of extraordinary natural beauty, offering diverse landscapes that range from rugged mountains and rolling hills to coastal plains. This ecological variety makes it an ideal destination for hunters, with abundant wildlife and a strong cultural connection to traditional hunting practices. However, like other regions in Italy, Campania enforces strict regulations to ensure sustainable management of wildlife and environmental protection. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about hunting seasons, game species, licensing procedures, and practical tips for responsible hunting in Campania. General Regulations and Hunting Periods in Campania Hunting in Campania follows Regional Law 12/2007, updated annually through the regional hunting plan. The general open season traditionally begins on the third Sunday of September, although some species may be hunted earlier under specific conditions. Wild boar can be hunted as early as September 1 in selected ATC zones, while most resident game species become available from October 1. The hunting calendar closes at different times depending on the species: - January 31 for migratory birds - December 31 for resident game such as hare, pheasant, and roe deer The terrain — approximately 60% mountainous, 30% hilly, and 10% flatland — influences both animal distribution and effective hunting strategies. Compared to neighboring regions like Lazio and Basilicata, Campania applies a balanced approach to managing wildlife populations, especially regarding wild boar control. Recent changes include a stronger focus on habitat conservation introduced in 2023, and the introduction in 2024 of the mandatory Sistema FAUNA, an electronic system for recording all legal kills. Seasonal Hunting Calendar in Campania Each year, a detailed hunting schedule is published based on scientific research and ecological monitoring. Among the most commonly hunted species are wild boar, roe deer, hare, common pheasant, woodpigeon, and red-legged partridge. The best time for hunting wild boar is between **November and December**, when they gather in valleys searching for food. Roe deer are most active at dawn or dusk, and their season runs from October to December. Migratory birds offer good opportunities during windy days, particularly from mid-September to January. Throughout the season, local traditions blend with venatory culture through events like the Sagra della Cacciagione in Benevento, Avellino, and Serino (October–November), food festivals featuring wild game dishes, and exhibitions of outdoor gear and firearms. Prohibitions and Restrictions in Campania Several species enjoy full protection under Campanian law, including the Italian wolf, porcupine, and wildcat. Hunting these animals is strictly forbidden, with penalties reaching up to €10,000 for killing a porcupine. There is a complete ban on hunting from February 1 to August 31, covering breeding and nesting seasons across the region. Additional restrictions apply: - No hunting is allowed on Sundays in October - Use of electronic calls is prohibited - Shotguns used for hunting ungulates must not have magazines holding more than two cartridges How to Obtain a Hunting Permit in the Region Campania To legally hunt in Campania, you must hold several key documents: - A valid firearms license, typically Type B for hunting purposes - An annual regional hunting license, costing around €180 per year - A third-party liability insurance policy with a minimum coverage of €500,000 - A membership card from the local Ambito Territoriale di Caccia (ATC) Permits can be obtained through official channels such as Federcaccia Campania, which also offers mandatory courses for new hunters, at authorized gun shops, or online via the Regione Campania portal. Non-residents must submit their applications in advance and comply with local ATC requirements. Penalties and Liability for Non-Compliance with Hunting Terms in Campania Violating hunting laws in Campania can lead to serious consequences: - Hunting without a license can result in fines ranging from €1,500 to €6,000 - Killing protected species can cost up to €15,000, plus criminal charges - Exceeding bag limits results in a fine of €50 per kilogram over the limit - Using illegal equipment, such as electronic calls, leads to immediate confiscation Repeat offenders risk losing their licenses permanently and facing criminal prosecution. These measures ensure that hunting remains ethical, legal, and sustainable. Tips for Choosing Times, Places, Equipment and Techniques Depending on the Seasons and Hunting Periods in Campania Successful and responsible hunting in Campania depends on careful planning and adaptability to seasonal conditions. Some of the best areas include: -Matese Mountains and Picentini Mountains, known for roe deer and wild boar - Irpinia and Sannio Hills, ideal for pheasants and partridges - Coastal areas near Salerno and Naples, excellent spots for pigeons and migratory birds Recommended gear includes a versatile shotgun like a Benelli Vinci or Beretta A400 (caliber 12/76), high-quality optics like Swarovski Optik or Zeiss, and multi-layer clothing to handle sudden weather changes. Campania, with its diverse landscapes ranging from the rugged Apennines to the coastal wetlands, offers a vibrant hunting scene deeply rooted in local traditions. The region kicks off the hunting season with the Campania Hunting Fair in Benevento every September, where enthusiasts can browse the latest firearms, hunting gear, and accessories while attending workshops on safety and regulations. As autumn sets in, the picturesque town of Avellino hosts its renowned Wild Game Festival, featuring dishes like wild boar pappardelle and woodcock stew, paired with local Aglianico wine and live folk music.