Friuli-Venezia Giulia Calendar: Lagoon Hunting Seasons from Adriatic Marshes to Alpine Streams

Regulation and Hunting Periods in Friuli-Venezia Giulia The hunting season in Friuli-Venezia Giulia is governed by Regional Law 11/2007, with annual updates that every hunter must be aware of. The general season traditionally opens on the third Sunday of September, with different closing dates depending on species: January 31 for migratory birds and December 31 for other species. For Alpine ibex, hunting is permitted from September 1 to November 30. The region’s territory, ranging from the Carnic Alps to the Karst plateau and coastal wetlands, significantly influences hunting seasons. In alpine areas above 1,500 meters, seasons are generally shorter, while the unique microclimate of the Trieste Karst supports distinctive Mediterranean species. Wetlands serve as important migratory routes. Compared to neighboring regions, Friuli-Venezia Giulia offers 10 additional days for hare hunting than Veneto, but applies stricter limits on roe deer compared to Austria. There are also significant differences with Slovenia regarding wild boar hunting periods. New regulations for 2024 include mandatory electronic logging of harvested animals, new restrictions on lead ammunition, and a revision of red deer management plans. Hunting Calendar by Species in Friuli-Venezia Giulia Regarding ungulates, red deer can be hunted from September 1 to December 15, with males allowed only until October 31. Alpine ibex can be hunted from September 1 to November 30, while wild boar season runs from October 1 to January 31. Among small game, both hare and pheasant can be hunted from October 1 to December 31, while woodpigeon season spans from September 15 to January 31. The best times vary by species: ibex are most active at dawn in September and October, while wild boar are more productive during moonless nights between November and December. Migratory birds offer the best opportunities mid-October during migration. Important regional events include the Fiera Caccia e Pesca (Hunting and Fishing Fair) in Udine in September, the Regional Shooting Tournament in Gorizia in October, and the Dog Show for Hunting Dogs in Pordenone in August. Protected Species and Restrictions in Friuli-Venezia Giulia Species under full protection include the wolf, brown bear, and capercaillie. A reproductive rest period is enforced from February 1 to August 31 across the entire region. All Sundays in October are non-hunting days (silence days). The use of magazines holding more than two rounds is prohibited when hunting ungulates. Required Documentation in Friuli-Venezia Giulia To hunt in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, you need: a valid firearms license, a regional hunting license (annual cost around €220), an ATC card, and liability insurance covering at least €50,000. Non-resident hunters must be accompanied by a licensed guide for the first three years, pay a 25% surcharge, and register their firearms with the local police station. Penalties and Fines in Friuli-Venezia Giulia Violations are strictly enforced: hunting without a license incurs fines from €1,500 to €6,000, while killing protected species can result in fines up to €15,000. Exceeding bag limits results in a fine of €80 per kilogram over the limit. Practical Tips for Hunters in Friuli-Venezia Giulia Recommended areas include the Carnic Alps for ibex and red deer, the Karst for hare and wild boar, and coastal lagoons for migratory waterfowl. Essential equipment includes appropriate calibers for terrain, high-quality optics for alpine environments, and technical clothing to handle the region's typical temperature fluctuations. Effective techniques vary by species: slope stalking is recommended for ibex, organized drives are particularly effective for wild boar, and manual calls yield good results for migratory birds.