A Seasonal Breakdown of Game Species in Derbyshire: Opening Dates, Restricted Periods & Best Hunting Grounds

Derbyshire, with its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and windswept moors, is a favourite among British hunters. Yet, with this rich natural heritage comes responsibility. To hunt here legally and ethically, you must know the rules, dates, and local conditions. This guide is your essential companion for planning a safe and successful hunt. When and Where You Can Hunt in Derbyshire Before heading out with your rifle or shotgun, understanding Derbyshire’s hunting calendar is vital. The region’s wildlife laws protect game populations and maintain ecological balance. Hunting seasons depend on the type of game: roe deer stags can be hunted from April 1 to October 31, with does from November 1 to March 31. Red and fallow deer stags have a season from August 1 to April 30, while does are hunted from November 1 to March 31. Game birds include pheasant from October 1 to February 1, partridge from September 1 to February 1, grouse from August 12 to December 10, and waterfowl from September 1 to January 31. The Peak District’s higher altitude means shorter seasons for some species, and Derbyshire enforces stricter deer hunting windows than neighboring Yorkshire to protect populations. Recent changes include bans on lead ammunition in wetlands (2023) and an extended pheasant season. Derbyshire hunting season dates: Roe deer (stags): April 1 – October 31 Roe deer (does): November 1 – March 31 Red & fallow deer (stags): August 1 – April 30 Red & fallow deer (does): November 1 – March 31 Pheasant: October 1 – February 1 Partridge: September 1 – February 1 Grouse: August 12 – December 10 Waterfowl: September 1 – January 31 What to Hunt and When Each season offers unique opportunities. Autumn (September to November) is peak time for pheasant and partridge, and deer stalking begins. Winter (December to February) suits duck, geese, and late-season deer hunting. Spring (March to April) opens the roe deer buck season. Wildlife activity peaks at dawn and dusk for deer and waterfowl, while upland birds like grouse are more active midday. Derbyshire hosts the Game Fair in June, featuring shooting competitions and gear showcases, and the Peak District Driven Shoot from October to January offers organized pheasant hunts. Derbyshire hosts several premier hunting events, including the annual Derbyshire Game Fair (June), featuring shooting competitions, hound shows, and gear exhibitions, and the Peak District Driven Shoot (October-January), where hunters can join organized pheasant hunts across private estates. Local hunting clubs also host stag and grouse season opener celebrations (August-September), offering guided excursions, marksmanship workshops, and traditional post-hunt gatherings with regional game tastings. These events blend sport with conservation education, highlighting sustainable practices. What’s Off Limits: Rules and Exceptions in Derbyshire Respecting protected species and seasonal bans is essential. Badgers, otters, and all birds of prey are strictly protected. Hunting does and fawns outside permitted seasons is prohibited. Some protected areas ban hunting on Sundays. Closed seasons during breeding include no deer hunting in May and June. Lead shot is banned in wetlands, and minimum calibers are .243 for roe deer and .270 for red deer. Getting Your Hunting Pass: Licenses and Permits Legal hunting requires proper documentation. You must hold a Firearm Certificate (FAC) or Shotgun Certificate (SGC), a Deer Stalking Certificate for deer hunting, and written landowner permission for private estates. Key organizations include the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, which manages sustainable hunting zones; BASC, offering training and permits; and the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation, providing guided hunts. Breaking the Rules: What It’ll Cost You in Derbyshire Hunting violations carry heavy penalties. Hunting out of season can lead to fines up to £5,000 and confiscation of equipment. Killing protected species may result in up to six months imprisonment. Hunting without a license risks a £1,000 fine and a hunting ban. Smart Hunting: Gear, Spots, and Best Times Proper gear and planning improve success. Essential equipment includes rifles and shotguns matched to game, camouflage suited to Derbyshire’s mixed terrain, and binoculars for spotting deer in dense woodlands. Top hunting spots are the Peak District Moors for red deer and grouse, the River Derwent Valley for waterfowl, and Chatsworth Estate for managed pheasant shoots. Early season hunting should focus on younger, less wary game, while late season tactics include using calls to attract pressured deer.