Hunting in France
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Why France
Rich Variety of Game
A wide range of huntable game is available, including red, roe, and fallow deer, mouflon, wild boar, Pyrenean and alpine chamois, and world-class bird shooting
Two-Thousand-Year-Old Hunting Culture
Once the province only of the aristocracy, France’s rich hunting heritage can now be enjoyed by hunters from around the world
Perfect Post-Hunt Family Vacation
Combine high-quality hunting with a sampling of French food, wine, and culture
France on map
About hunting in France
The hunting tradition in France goes back at least two thousand years, and probably more. Cave paintings depicting hunting scenes have been found here that date to prehistoric times, and in more recent history, la chasse was one of the major pastimes of royalty. Today, hunting in France can be enjoyed by sportsmen from around the world. One of the largest countries in Europe, France still has sprawling forested areas, fields, and mountain ranges that are home to red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, wild boar, mouflon, alpine chamois, and Pyrenean chamois. As in much of Europe, game is managed by professional gamekeepers, primarily on private estates. In addition to big game, driven pheasant shoots as well as walk-up hunts for pigeons, partridge, and ducks are popular. Good management and habitat improvement has led to an increase in most of France’s game populations in recent years. France is Europe’s primary tourist destination, with plenty to offer in the way of food and wine as well as art and culture, so a hunt in France can easily be combined with a family vacation, wine tasting, or sightseeing.
What you need to know
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1. Planning your trip
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2. Upon arrival
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3. Hunting
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4. After the hunt
Planning your trip
Visas
Holders of passports from the EU, USA, Canada, and many other countries do not require a visa for a tourist visit to France. All hunters must have a French Hunting Permit and valid insurance covering the duration and territory of the hunt. Most outfitters can organize these in advance of the hunt.
Upon arrival
Hunters may bring their own firearms, up to two per hunter; however, you must apply in advance for a temporary import permit (for hunters from EU countries, and EU Firearms Permit is required). Contact the French consulate in your country to complete the necessary forms, or discuss the procedure with your outfitter upon booking. Be sure to declare your firearm to customs upon arrival to obtain an authorization.
Hunting
Most big-game hunting is done by spot-and-stalk or from a high seat, although boars and other game are often taken on drives. Most hunters in France use calibers in the .270 Winchester to .300 Winchester class, equipped with a variable-power scope. Shotguns with slugs are often used on drives. Traditional green or brown hunting clothing is preferred. Between November and February, warm, waterproof clothing is required. If a driven hunt is on the agenda, fluorescent vests are required; check with your outfitter to find out if these are provided.
After the hunt
Taxidermy
Export documents and veterinary inspections must be conducted on all trophies by a local taxidermist or export agent. Once this is completed, the trophies should be transferred by the taxidermist or outfitter to a customs broker for shipment, and an invoice will be sent to you.
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Hunting methods All hunting methods (11)
Game classification All classifications (5)
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