Harbour Seal
About harbour seal hunting
Seal hunting is unlike any other form of hunting in Norway. It takes place from a boat along the coast, and the seals are shot on skerries where they haul out to rest. The distance is often short, but the challenge is getting close enough without spooking them.
The approach is made by boat, usually at slow speed with the engine at low revs. The seals are alert and disappear into the water at any disturbance. Wind and waves can make it difficult to keep the boat steady enough for a good shot.
The harbour seal is smaller than the grey seal and typically weighs 50 to 100 kg. It is hunted with a rifle in an approved big-game caliber. The shot must be placed in the head to ensure a quick kill and prevent the seal from slipping into the water.
Seal hunting is quota-regulated and managed by the Directorate of Fisheries. You need a quota allocated by the Directorate in addition to the standard hunting license. Kills must be reported immediately.
The meat is used as food and has a tradition especially along the coast of northern and western Norway. The hide can be tanned.
Hunting Season
2 Jan – 30 Apr and 1 Aug – 30 Sep
Seasons vary between management areas. Quota-regulated. Managed by the Directorate of Fisheries, not the Norwegian Agriculture Agency.
Weight
Live weight: 50–100 kg.
Distribution
Along the entire Norwegian coast, from the Oslofjord to Finnmark. The largest concentrations are in Rogaland, Vestland, Trøndelag and Nordland.
Terrain
Skerries, islets and sandbanks along the coast. The harbour seal hauls out at low tide and hunts fish in the sea. It tends to keep to fixed haul-out sites.
Identification
Grey-brown with dark spots. Rounded body, short muzzle and large eyes. Colour pattern varies greatly between individuals.
Hunting Tips
Seal hunting takes a boat and patience. Plan around the tide — the seals haul out on skerries at low water. Early morning is best. Remember that the quota is limited and varies between areas.
Harbour Seal hunting by county
Find grounds for harbour seal hunting
Create a free account and find hunting grounds where you can hunt harbour seal.
