Marche Hunting Calendar: When the Sibillini Mountains Foothills Offer Best Running Game

Regulations and Hunting Seasons in Marche The Marche region offers a diverse landscape ranging from the Sibillini Mountains to the Adriatic coast, creating ideal habitats for various species. Hunting is regulated by Regional Law 15/2007 with annual updates. The general hunting season opens on the first Sunday of September, with exceptions such as wild boar, which can be hunted starting September 1st in certain ATCs (Territorial Hunting Units). Closing dates vary between December 31 for resident species and January 31 for migratory and nocturnal ones. Compared to Umbria, the Marche region allows more flexibility in wild boar hunting thanks to active monitoring programs. The territory—40% mountainous, 45% hilly, and 15% flat—influences wildlife distribution. Recent changes include reinforced measures for wild boar management (2023) and mandatory electronic logging of harvested animals (2024). Hunting Calendar by Species in Marche For ungulates, wild boar can be hunted from September 1 to January 31, with the best period being November–December. Roe deer are huntable from October 1 to December 31, preferably at dawn and dusk. Fallow deer are only found on private reserves. Among small game, the hare (October 1–December 31) prefers morning hours and foggy conditions, while the common pheasant (same period) is most active in October–November. The woodpigeon (September 15–January 31) offers optimal opportunities during migration periods. Protected Species and Restrictions in Marche Protected species include the wolf (fully protected), the crested porcupine (fines up to €10,000), and the wildcat. There is a reproductive protection period from February 1 to August 31, with a complete ban on hunting every Sunday in October. Restrictions include limited two-shell magazines when hunting ungulates and an outright ban on electronic calls. These regulations aim to balance hunting activities with wildlife conservation. Required Documentation in Marche To legally hunt in the Marche, you need: a firearms license (type B for non-EU citizens), a regional hunting license (around €180), liability insurance (RCT, minimum €50), and ATC authorization. Permits can be obtained through Federcaccia Marche (which organizes mandatory courses), authorized gun shops, or online regional portals. This documentation ensures legal compliance and traceability of hunting activities. Penalties and Fines in Marche Violations carry severe penalties: fines from €1,500 to €6,000 for hunting without a license, up to €15,000 for hunting protected species (with possible criminal consequences), €50 per kilogram for excess game, and immediate confiscation for using electronic calls. These penalties reflect the region’s commitment to sustainable and regulated hunting. Practical Advice for Hunters in Marche The Sibillini Mountains are ideal for roe deer and partridges, while the hills of Pesaro-Urbino excel for pheasants and hares. Coastal wetlands are excellent for migratory ducks, and river valleys like Esino, Musone, and Chienti offer great wild boar hunting. Recommended gear includes versatile shotguns like Benelli Vinci/Argo Evo (.12/76), optics from Swarovski/Zeiss, and layered clothing. Effective techniques include night stand hunting for wild boar (with authorized thermal imaging), still-hunting for roe deer, and listening for pheasants in wooded areas. Events like the Fiera della Caccia (Ancona, September) and local wild boar festivals (October–November) enrich the region's hunting tradition.