Hunting in Apulia: Calendar, Permits and Strategies for a Successful Season

Main hunting periods in the region Apulia Apulia offers hunters a rich and varied territory, with hunting seasons that generally extend from September to January. The Apulia Region carefully regulates hunting periods according to National Law 157/1992 and EU directives, with annual updates that take into account wildlife monitoring. The climatic and territorial peculiarities greatly influence the hunting activity: the coastal areas of Salento are ideal for migratory birds, while the hilly areas of Gargano and Murge offer excellent opportunities for wild boar hunting. Compared to neighboring regions, Apulia has some significant differences. While in Basilicata there are more restrictions on the hare, more freedom is enjoyed here. On the contrary, for the woodcock the opening period is later than in Campania. Major regulatory changes have taken place in recent years, such as the 2021 restrictions on protected wetlands and the 2023 extension for boar control in overpopulated areas. Seasonal Hunting calendar in Apulia The Apulian hunting calendar provides for large game wild boar hunting from October 1st to January 31st and fox hunting from September 15th to December 31st. As for small game, the hare can be hunted from October 1 to November 30, the pheasant until December 31, and the woodcock from November 1 to January 31. The best months are October-November for wild boar and December-January for aquatic. There is no shortage of traditional events such as the Hunting Fair in September in Bari and the Wild Boar Festival in October in Foggia. Prohibitions and Restrictions in Apulia The Apulian regulation absolutely prohibits the hunting of protected species such as wolf, otter and red kite, while imposing limitations for wild boar females with young. The closing period is from February 1st to August 31st, with possible temporary suspensions during the spring migration. To exercise the hunting activity it is necessary to have the gun port for hunting use, the regional card (with costs between 50 and 200 euros) and a compulsory RC insurance. The local ATC and Federcaccia Puglia are fundamental reference points for information and updates. Penalties and Liability for Non-Compliance with Hunting Terms in Apulia Penalties for those who transgress the rules can be severe: up to 5,000 euros for those who hunt without a license and up to 15,000 euros plus the seizure of weapons for the killing of protected species. For those who want to get the best results, Gargano is the ideal area for wild boar, while Salento is perfect for aquatic. The equipment must be appropriate to the territory, with particular attention to waterproof boots for wetlands. Tips for Choosing Times, Places, Equipment and Techniques depending on the Seasons and Hunting Periods in Apulia To maximize hunting success in Apulia, it is essential to adapt strategies and equipment to the characteristics of the territory. In the wooded areas of Gargano and Murge, where the wild boar is particularly active, silent approaches with good night optics are recommended for the twilight hours, when the animals are more mobile. For aquatic hunting in the wetlands of Salento, quality molds, effective decoys and camouflage clothing suitable for marsh environments are essential. Fundamental high waterproof boots, considering the frequent flooded areas. The mid-season requires abstract clothing to face the typical Apulian temperature changes, while in winter you should not underestimate the cold wind that blows from the Murge. For hare hunting in hilly areas, well-trained follower dogs make all the difference. It is always recommended to check the weather forecast and to inquire with the local ATC about the specific conditions of the individual reserves. Do not neglect the importance of good binoculars for remote sighting, especially in the open expanses of the Murgia of Bari.