The UK pheasant shooting season runs from 1 October to 1 February, which makes October the start of the main game shooting calendar. Whether you are heading out as a gun, a beater or a picker-up, the right clothing makes the difference between a great day and a miserable one. This guide covers the key UK game season dates and exactly what to wear on shoot day.
UK Game Shooting Season Dates
These are the open seasons for the most popular quarry. Dates can differ slightly by country and for foreshore shooting, so always check the latest guidance from BASC or your shoot organiser before you go.
- Pheasant: 1 October to 1 February
- Partridge (grey and red-legged): 1 September to 1 February
- Red grouse: 12 August to 10 December (the "Glorious Twelfth")
- Woodcock (England and Wales): 1 October to 31 January
- Duck and geese (inland): 1 September to 31 January
Most driven pheasant days take place between November and January, so you will be dressing for cold, damp and often muddy conditions.
What to Wear Shooting: The Layering System
Shoot days mean long periods standing still, followed by bursts of walking. Layering lets you adjust as conditions change. Our full what to wear shooting guide goes into more depth, but the essentials are below.
1. Base Layer
A thermal or merino base layer keeps you warm and wicks moisture away from your skin. Avoid cotton, which holds sweat and chills you when you stop moving.
2. Mid Layer
A shirt, jumper or fleece adds insulation. A shooting gilet or fleece keeps your core warm while leaving your arms free to mount the gun.
3. Outer Layer
Choose a quiet, waterproof and breathable jacket in a countryside colour such as green, olive, brown or tweed. Noisy fabrics that rustle can be a nuisance on a drive. Browse our full range of shooting and country clothing, or read our waterproof jacket buying guide before you buy.
Trousers, Breeks and Socks
Waterproof trousers or tough, weatherproof country trousers are essential for wet cover and long grass. Traditional shooters often choose breeks or plus fours with long shooting socks. For wet days, our waterproof trousers guide explains what to look for.
Boots and Wellies
Waterproof wellies or lined country boots are the standard choice. Look for a good grip, a comfortable fit with thick socks and, in cold weather, a neoprene lining. Browse wellington boots and wellies or our men's country boots, and check the wellington boots sizing guide for the right fit.
Hats, Gloves and Accessories
- Hat: a tweed cap or waterproof hat keeps rain off and the sun out of your eyes. See our hats, caps and headwear.
- Gloves: thin shooting gloves for feel, or warm waterproof gloves between drives. Browse gloves.
- Eye and ear protection: always wear shooting glasses and ear defenders. See our shooting glasses.
What Should Beaters and Pickers-Up Wear?
Beaters walk through thick, wet cover, so tough, fully waterproof outer layers and trousers are key. Some shoots ask beaters to wear a blaze-orange hat or vest, so check with the keeper beforehand. Pickers-up and dog handlers should also consider a hard-wearing, easy-clean outer layer.
Shoot Day Checklist
- Base layer, mid layer and waterproof outer jacket
- Waterproof trousers or breeks
- Wellies or waterproof boots with warm socks
- Hat and gloves
- Shooting glasses and ear defenders
- Spare dry socks and a change of layers for the journey home
Frequently Asked Questions
When does pheasant shooting start in the UK?
The pheasant season opens on 1 October and closes on 1 February.
What colour should you wear on a shoot?
Stick to muted countryside colours such as green, brown, olive, khaki and tweed. Avoid bright colours and white unless asked to wear blaze orange.
Do you need waterproofs for a shoot day?
Yes. Even if the forecast looks dry, wet vegetation and long days outdoors make waterproof outer layers worth wearing.
Ready to kit out for the season? Explore our full shooting and country clothing range, or visit The Field Guide for more advice.
