Deer licences in Ireland run on an August–July licence year. The dates below reflect the 2025/26 NPWS open seasons, which continue into the 2026/27 year. Always confirm before you hunt — regulations can be updated annually.
| Species | Sex | Open Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sika deer | Stag | 1 Aug – 30 Apr | Longest open window; statewide |
| Sika deer | Hind | 1 Nov – 31 Mar | Statewide |
| Red deer | Stag | 1 Sep – 31 Dec | Kerry Red deer exempt — protected population |
| Red deer | Hind | 1 Nov – 28/29 Feb | Kerry exempt |
| Fallow deer | Buck | 1 Sep – 31 Dec | Statewide |
| Fallow deer | Doe | 1 Nov – 28/29 Feb | Statewide |
Source: National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) Deer Hunting Licence. Always verify the current season at npws.ie before your hunt.
Mating season creates the best window for a trophy stag. Key rut periods in Ireland:
| Species | Open Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pheasant | 1 Nov – 31 Jan | Driven shoots on managed estates dominate |
| Partridge (Grey) | 1 Nov – 31 Jan | Very limited wild populations |
| Woodcock | 1 Nov – 31 Jan | Ireland is a world-class woodcock destination |
| Snipe | 1 Sep – 31 Jan | Longer window than most bird species |
| Duck (Mallard, Teal, Wigeon, Pintail, Shoveler) | 1 Sep – 31 Jan | Subject to specific wildfowling rules |
| Goose (Greylag, Canada) | 1 Sep – 31 Jan | Protected geese excluded — check current OSO |
Game bird dates per the Wildlife (Open Seasons) Order. Always verify — the order is amended periodically.
The NPWS deer hunting licence year runs 1 August to 31 July. You apply (or renew) online via the NPWS licensing portal. Visitors to Ireland typically use the outfitter's permission rather than a personal NPWS licence — your outfitter will handle this, along with the temporary firearm import permit from An Garda Síochána.
Tell us region, species and dates — we'll match you with the outfitter best placed to deliver the hunt inside an open window.
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