From Trasimeno to the Apennines: Umbria's Hunting Seasons Explained – Opening Dates, Special Permits and Prohibited Periods

The hunting season in Umbria is regulated by Regional Law 9/2007, with annual updates that every hunter must follow. Traditionally, the general season opens on the third Sunday of September, with staggered closures: January 31 for migratory birds and December 31 for other species. Wild boar hunting in selected ATC (Wildlife Hunting Areas) can start as early as September 1. The Apennine climate, with its dry summers, significantly impacts wildlife reproduction, while Umbria’s 70% hilly terrain shapes species distribution. Compared to neighboring regions, Umbria offers 15 extra days for hunting migratory birds over Tuscany but enforces stricter wild boar regulations than Marche. Recent changes include selective roe deer hunting (introduced in 2023) and a mandatory electronic kill recording system (since 2024). Hunting Seasons by Species in Umbria For ungulates, wild boar can be hunted from September 1 to January 31, with peak activity between November and December when they forage for acorns. Roe deer are huntable from October 1 to December 31, most active at dawn and dusk, while fallow deer are restricted to specific reserves. Small game seasons include hare and pheasant (October 1–December 31), with hares best hunted on foggy mornings. Wood pigeon hunting runs from September 15 to January 31, offering excellent opportunities during migration. Umbria hosts several notable hunting events, such as the Hunting and Fishing Fair in Perugia (September), Game Festivals in Gubbio and Norcia (October–November), and traditional pigeon shooting competitions near Lake Trasimeno. Bans and Protected Species in Umbria Strictly protected species include the wolf (full protection), crested porcupine (fines up to €10,000 for killing), and wildcat. A breeding moratorium runs from February 1 to August 31, and all Sundays in October are no-hunting days. For ungulates, magazines holding more than two rounds are prohibited. Licenses and Documentation in Umbria Hunters in Umbria must carry a firearms license (Type B for non-EU residents), a regional hunting permit (~€180 annually), liability insurance (minimum €50), and an ATC membership card. Permits can be obtained through ATC Umbria 1 and 2 (divided by province), Federcaccia Umbria (which offers mandatory courses), or authorized gun shops (for safe storage rentals). Penalties and Fines in Umbria Violations are strictly punished: hunting without a license carries fines from €1,500 to €6,000, while killing protected species can result in fines up to €15,000 and potential jail time. Exceeding bag limits incurs a €50 fine per excess kg, and using electronic lures leads to immediate equipment confiscation. Practical Hunting Tips in Umbria The best hunting areas include Monti Sibillini (Apennine chamois, special quotas), Valnerina (wild boar drives), and Piani di Castelluccio (partridges and hares). Recommended gear includes a Benelli Argo Evo (12/76 caliber for versatility), high-quality optics like ZEISS or SWAROVSKI (mountain-proof), and layered clothing for temperature swings. Effective techniques vary by game: wild boar hunting often involves night stalking with thermal cameras (special permit required), while roe deer are best pursued through still-hunting with favorable wind. For birds, "ear-guided" shooting in coppiced woods is highly effective. Umbria offers a variety of exciting hunting-related events throughout the year, blending tradition, sport, and local culture. One of the most notable gatherings is the Hunting and Fishing Fair in Perugia, held every September, where enthusiasts can explore the latest gear, attend workshops, and participate in demonstrations. As autumn progresses, the historic towns of Gubbio and Norcia host lively Game Festivals between October and November, celebrating wild game cuisine with tastings, cooking competitions, and hunting folklore. Near Lake Trasimeno, traditional pigeon shooting competitions take place, testing marksmanship skills in a scenic setting. For those interested in wild boar hunting, several driven hunts (battute) are organized across the region, particularly in Valnerina and the Apennine foothills, where teams work with trained dogs to track and flush out game. Additionally, selective hunts for roe deer are gaining popularity, especially in managed reserves where sustainable wildlife management is emphasized.