Lady’s Wood Guide to the Pheasant Season

In our latest ‘Lady’s Wood Guide to…’ series, we talk you through everything you need to know about the pheasant season.

When is the pheasant season in the UK?

The UK’s pheasant season runs from 1^st October to 1^st February (31^st January in Northern Ireland). This is known as the ‘open season’, when it is legal to shoot pheasants and other game birds such as partridge, snipe and woodcock.

Where can you shoot pheasants in the UK?

Pheasants are shot all over the UK and are the most common bird game shooters are likely to come across during the shooting season. Some of our favourite pheasant shooting spots include Exmoor, mid Wales, the Scottish borders and of course, here in Gloucestershire. Lady’s Wood Sporting Agency has connections with some of the best pheasant shoots in the country so get in touch to discuss your requirements.

What can I expect from a typical pheasant shoot?

Whilst your exact itinerary will differ depending on the shoot, most driven pheasant shoots follow a very similar format. You’ll meet with your host and other guns at the start of the day for coffee and perhaps a spot of breakfast and the all-important safety briefing. This will include important information such as what you can and cannot shoot and what signals to look out for so it’s important that you listen carefully.

After the briefing, there will be a draw for the peg numbers. This determines where each gun will stand for each drive. Many shoots have different ways of moving guns through the line, so make a note of this at the start of the day.

The number of drives undertaken on the day will depend on the specific shoot although it is typically between 4 and 6. The drives are often broken up with a short refreshment break known as elevenses and there may also be a break for lunch. Some shoots choose to ‘shoot through’, meaning that lunch will be served at the end of the day when all of the shooting has finished.

If you’re new to pheasant shooting, taking an on the peg instructor can be hugely beneficial. Not only will they be there to help with your shooting, they can also offer guidance on etiquette and safety, as well as act as a welcome confidence boost! Find out more about Lady’s Wood’s instruction in the field.

How can I prepare for the pheasant season ahead?

Booking in for a shooting lesson (or two!) prior to your day in the field is recommended whether you’re a beginner or more experienced shot! It’s always a good idea to get your eye in before the big day and our experienced instructors will be on hand to put your mind at ease or answer any questions you might have.

If you’re a total shooting novice, we recommend reading some of our handy guides that will help introduce you to the world of game shooting, including our guide to shooting etiquette, and what to wear for a shoot day.

For further info call on game days and game shooting tuition give us a call on 01454 29454 or email shoot@ladyswood.co.uk.