Piedmont Hunting Calendar: Elevation-Based Season Dates and Western Alps Trophy Tips

Piedmont, with its diverse landscapes ranging from the Alps to the Monferrato hills, is one of the most sought-after destinations for Italian hunters. The region offers an extraordinary variety of game species, but to practice hunting legally and responsibly, it’s essential to know in detail the regulations, permitted periods, and best practices. Regulation and Hunting Periods in Piedmont The general hunting season in Piedmont traditionally opens on the third Sunday of September and closes on January 31, though there are important variations depending on species and location. Alpine zones often start earlier, especially for rock partridge (September 1), while some lowland areas extend boar hunting into February for population control. These dates are carefully set to align with wildlife behavior and conservation efforts. Compared to neighboring regions like Lombardy and Aosta Valley, Piedmont offers more flexibility for wild boar hunting and slightly longer seasons for certain migratory birds. Hunting Calendar by Species in Piedmont Each species has a defined period: - Resident game: Hare and pheasant can be hunted from the third Sunday of September. - Rock partridge: Opens earlier in alpine areas on September 1 and closes at the end of November. - Wild boar: Varies by ATC (Ambito Territoriale di Caccia), with some areas allowing hunting until February. - Migratory birds: Woodcock, thrushes, and larks have shorter windows, usually from October to December. Historically, hare hunting ended in late November in some provinces, but after studies on population dynamics, the season was extended to January 31 to better manage sustainable prelievo (harvest). Protected Species and Restrictions in Piedmont Several species enjoy full protection under regional and national law: Wolf (monitored closely in alpine areas), All raptors, Gray heron, White stork, Marmot, especially within the Gran Paradiso National Park Hunting is prohibited during breeding seasons (March–July) and in Natura 2000 zones. Special attention is required in mountainous areas where protected species are more concentrated. Necessary Documentation in Piedmont To hunt legally in Piedmont, all hunters must have: - A valid Italian firearms license - A Piedmont regional hunting card (Tesserino Regionale Venatorio) - Proof of €20 million liability insurance Non-residents may need: - A temporary permit - Registration through a local ATC or association Annual fees apply, and some ATCs require participation in environmental awareness courses. Hunters should always check with their assigned Ambito for any micro-regulations that might differ from the general calendar. Penalties and Fines in Piedmont Violations of hunting laws in Piedmont carry serious consequences: - Fines from €500 to €1,500 for out-of-season hunting - Fines from €2,000 to €7,000 for killing protected species - License suspension or revocation for repeated or severe violations - Confiscation of weapons and gear in case of illegal activity These penalties emphasize the importance of knowing your area and target species before heading into the field. Practical Advice for Hunters in Piedmont Successful hunting in Piedmont depends on proper equipment and strategy: - In alpine zones, use a .308 Winchester or similar caliber rifle with stabilized optics, along with high-visibility camouflage jackets for safety. - On the plains, a 12/76 double-barreled shotgun works well for small game, especially in rice fields where waterproof boots are essential. - For wild boar, a fluorescent vest is mandatory, and a semi-automatic rifle is recommended for accuracy and safety. Top events include the Turin Hunting Fair, local chamois trophy competitions, and guided tours in the Langhe and Roero hills. Always verify specific rules with your ATC before each outing — hunting in Piedmont is a privilege that demands responsibility and respect for nature.