Western capercaillie hunting in Vestland
Season: Sep 10 – Dec 23
Western capercaillie is among the huntable species in Vestland. Capercaillie hunting is among the most exclusive hunts you can do in Norwegian forests. A cock can weigh over five kilos, and watching a big bird flush from the pines is something you don't forget.
Season in Vestland
Sep 10 – Dec 23
The cock (capercaillie) and the hen are hunted in the same period. Many terrains have their own limits on the number of cocks that may be taken.
All hunting seasonsDistribution
The capercaillie is found in coniferous forest from Agder to Troms. The best populations are in Trøndelag, Innlandet and Nordland. The species needs large, continuous tracts of coniferous forest.
Terrain
Old, mature coniferous forest with bogs and bilberry is typical capercaillie terrain. The cock needs large territories with access to lekking grounds in spring. Pine forest with rich ground vegetation is ideal.
Weight
Hen: 1.5–2.5 kg, cock: 3.5–5.5 kg
Terrain in Vestland
Vestland is the land of fjords and mountains. Sognefjorden, Hardangerfjorden, and Nordfjord cut between steep mountains. The coast is mild and wet with lush forest, while the interior has large mountain areas. Hardangervidda in the east is Europe's largest high mountain plateau. Vestland has Norway's densest red deer population.
Hunting western capercaillie
Search old pine forest with bilberry. Capercaillie are creatures of habit and use the same areas year after year. Early morning gives the best results.
Plan the hunt
Other game in Vestland
Sep 1 – Dec 23
Moose huntingSep 25 – Oct 31 (limited range)
Roe deer huntingAug 10 – Dec 23 (bucks from Aug 10, all from Sep 25)
Willow ptarmigan and rock ptarmigan huntingSep 10 – Feb 28/29
Wild reindeer huntingAug 20 – Sep 30 (Hardangervidda)
Black grouse huntingSep 10 – Feb 28/29
Mountain hare huntingSep 10 – Feb 28/29
Greylag goose huntingAug 10 – Dec 23
Red fox huntingJul 15 – Apr 15
Western capercaillie hunting in other counties
Frequently asked questions
When is the western capercaillie hunting season in Vestland?
The season for western capercaillie in Vestland is Sep 10 – Dec 23. Local regulations can shorten or extend this.
Where does western capercaillie live in Vestland?
The capercaillie is found in coniferous forest from Agder to Troms. The best populations are in Trøndelag, Innlandet and Nordland. The species needs large, continuous tracts of coniferous forest.
Can I find grounds to hunt western capercaillie in Vestland?
Yes. Landowners across Vestland offer hunts on Hunta. Create a free account to browse available grounds.
Ready to hunt in Vestland?
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