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Molise Small Game Calendar: Year-Round Opportunities for Hare and Woodcock in Italy's Hidden Region
Regulations and Hunting Calendar in Molise
The hunting season in Molise is regulated by Regional Law 11/2018, with annual updates that every hunter must consult before the start of the activity. The traditional opening of the general season falls on the third Sunday of September, while the closures vary according to the species: January 31 for migratory and wood pigeons, December 31 for ungulates and sedentary game. Exceptions are some specific ATC zones where wild boar hunting is allowed until January 31.
The territory of Molise, with its characteristic conformation that ranges from the Central Apennines to the rolling hills and river areas, deeply influences the hunting periods. In the mountainous areas of Matese and Mainarde, openings are usually postponed by 7-10 days compared to flat areas, while along the main waterways such as Biferno and Trigno special calendars for hunting anatids apply. Protected areas and regional parks, on the other hand, follow specific regulations that are essential to know.
Compared to neighboring regions, Molise offers 5 more days for hare hunting than Abruzzo, but applies stricter restrictions on wild boar than Puglia. It shares greater flexibility with Campania in terms of migration.
For the 2024 season, important innovations have been introduced: the obligation of electronic registration of culls, the absolute ban on the use of lead ammunition in wetlands (in compliance with the EU directive), and new control plans for fox and nutria in the most problematic areas.
Huntable Species and Optimal Periods in Molise
As for ungulates, the wild boar represents one of the most coveted prey. Its season runs from October 1st to January 31st, with the most productive periods concentrated between November and December, when the animals are particularly active in the search for food. The roe deer, on the other hand, has a shorter season that goes from 1 ottobre October to 31 December, with withdrawal allowed only for male specimens. The fallow deer can only be hunted in some authorized reserves.
Among the lesser game, the hare (hunted from October 1 to December 31) offers the best opportunities after the autumn rains, when the ground is softer and the animals move more. The same period applies to the pheasant, with moments of more intense activity at dawn. The pigeon, which opens the season already on September 15 to close it on January 31, gives unique emotions during the migratory pass of mid-October.
The best times of the day vary depending on the species: sunrise is undoubtedly the ideal time for roe deer and hare, while sunset offers more possibilities for wild boar. For migrants, windy days are often the most productive.
Molise also boasts a rich tradition of hunting events. In September do not miss the Hunting Fair in Campobasso, while October is the month of the Game Festival in Isernia. In November, Termoli hosts the traditional Gathering of the Following Dogs, an unmissable event for fans.
Protected Species and Restrictions in Molise
The region strictly protects certain symbolic species of its territory. The Apennine wolf, the Marsican brown bear and all birds of prey are absolutely forbidden to hunt, with very severe penalties for offenders.
The hunting stop period runs from February 1st to August 31st, while all Sundays in November are days of hunting silence throughout the region. As for weapons, the use of magazines with more than 2 rounds when hunting ungulates is prohibited.
Documentation and Permits in Molise
To hunt in Molise you need some basic documents: a valid gun port, the regional hunting license (annual cost of 150 euros for residents), the card of the reference ATC and an RCT insurance with a minimum coverage of 50,000 euros.
Non-resident hunters must keep in mind some additional rules: they pay a 20% surcharge on licenses, are obliged to be accompanied by a guide for the first two years of activity in the region, and must register their weapons with the competent police headquarters.
Permits can be obtained at the headquarters of the territorial ATC, through Federcaccia Molise, or in the authorized armories of the region.
Penalties and Fines in Molise
Violations are punished severely: hunting without a license can cost from 1,200 to 5,000 euros in fine, while the culling of protected species can reach up to 12,000 euros in penalty. For those who exceed the permitted garments, the fine is 50 euros for each excess kilogram.
Strategies and Practical Advice in Molise
The best areas for hunting in Molise are three in particular: the Matese area for wild boar and roe deer, the Upper Molise for hare and pheasant, and the river valleys for pigeons during migrations.
As for the equipment, we recommend a caliber rifle suitable for the mixed soils of the region, quality optics with anti-fog treatment to deal with humid conditions, and camouflage clothing designed for wooded areas.
The most effective techniques? For the wild boar there is nothing better than traditional jokes with track dogs, while for roe deer stalking in transit areas give excellent results. Migratory birds respond well to manual calls, especially in cultivated areas.
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.
Hunting Seasons in FUNDY COAST, Canada: Essential Opening and Closing Dates, Required Licenses and Key Rules
The Fundy Coast region offers exceptional hunting opportunities while maintaining strict conservation practices. Understanding seasonal regulations and regional specifics is crucial for both local hunters and international visitors.
Seasonal Framework and Regulations in Fundy Coast
Primary hunting seasons run from late September through mid-December, varying by game species. The provincial government sets these periods based on annual biological studies. Over the past decade, fall seasons have shifted approximately 7-10 days later due to climate change effects on animal migration and breeding cycles.
The coastal climate significantly influences hunting schedules. White-tailed deer season typically opens around October 15th, coinciding with the rut period when bucks are most active. This timing differs from inland areas where colder temperatures often necessitate earlier hunting windows.
Compared to neighboring regions, Fundy Coast maintains more conservative bag limits for certain species like black bear, reflecting its commitment to sustainable wildlife management. In 2018, significant reforms introduced mandatory online hunter reporting systems, enhancing data collection and allowing more responsive seasonal adjustments.
Species-Specific Seasonality and Peak Periods in Fundy Coast
The hunting calendar divides into distinct segments based on game type and behavior patterns. For large game, particularly white-tailed deer, the prime period falls between October 15th and December 1st, capturing both pre-rut and rut phases. Buck activity peaks during the full moon cycle in early November.
Waterfowl seasons, influenced by migratory patterns along the Atlantic Flyway, typically open around September 20th for resident Canada geese and extend through late January for sea ducks. Mid-October to mid-November marks the height of waterfowl migration, when thousands of birds pass through coastal marshes daily.
Small game seasons, including snowshoe hare and ruffed grouse, commence earlier, usually around September 1st. Morning hunts during the first frost period yield particularly successful results for upland birds. Notable events include the "Fundy Fall Classic" in late October and the "Coastal Waterfowl Weekend" in November.
Regulatory Restrictions and Conservation Measures in Fundy Coast
Strict protections govern hunting practices. For deer, only bucks with at least three points on one side may be harvested, safeguarding younger males. Female deer harvest requires special permits through a competitive lottery system to maintain balanced herd demographics.
Several species receive absolute protection, including bobcat and fisher. The endangered piping plover nesting season triggers complete beach closures from April 1st to August 31st. During spring turkey season (May 1st - June 15th), only gobblers displaying visible beards may be taken.
Temporary moratoriums occur during key breeding periods. All hunting ceases completely from December 16th through March 14th to allow wintering wildlife undisturbed access to limited food resources.
Licensing Requirements and Procedures in Fundy Coast
Prospective hunters must secure a valid provincial hunting license obtainable through the official government portal after completing mandatory safety certification. Non-residents face additional requirements, including proof of equivalent hunter education or completion of a local course.
The application process involves:
1. Wildlife Resources Card ($11.70 fee)
2. Species-specific tags ($25-$100 each)
3. Mandatory hunter education verification
4. Additional permits for restricted areas
Local organizations like the Fundy Hunters Association provide valuable support, offering mentorship programs and access to private lands through cooperative agreements.
Consequences for Regulatory Violations
Penalties for non-compliance are severe and strictly enforced. Hunting out of season can result in fines ranging from $500 to $5,000, plus equipment confiscation. Repeat offenders face potential jail time and permanent hunting privilege revocation. In 2022, increased patrols led to 147 citations for seasonal violations.
Practical Recommendations for Successful Hunts in Fundy Coast
Timing remains paramount for optimal success. Early morning hunts during stable weather patterns consistently produce better results. Coastal fog common to the region often clears by 9:00 AM, making mid-morning an ideal starting time for spot-and-stalk methods.
Equipment selection should consider challenging terrain. Quality waterproof gear is essential due to frequent rain and tidal fluctuations. For waterfowl enthusiasts, layout blinds designed for rocky shorelines prove more effective than traditional field models.
Strategic positioning pays dividends. Deer tend to favor south-facing slopes during cool mornings, while afternoon movements concentrate near thick cover. Establish stands along travel corridors connecting bedding areas with feeding grounds, particularly those incorporating natural funnels created by coastal features.
Recent observations suggest adapting techniques to changing environmental conditions. Warmer fall temperatures have extended insect activity, altering deer movement patterns. Rising sea levels affect traditional waterfowl staging areas, necessitating updated scouting approaches.
Successful hunting in Fundy Coast demands thorough understanding of regulatory frameworks and environmental dynamics. By respecting established seasons, obtaining proper authorization, and employing adaptive strategies, hunters can enjoy rewarding experiences while contributing to the region's conservation legacy. Regular consultation of official updates and engagement with local hunting communities remain essential practices for maintaining compliance and maximizing opportunities throughout the hunting calendar.
