Capercaillie and Black Grouse

This traditional Russian hunt is conducted in the forests of the European part of Russia during the rutting season. Normally, Capercaillies (Tetrao urogallus) are found in hidden marshy areas. Black Grouse (Lyrurus tetrix), on the contrary, choose open places in the fields.

During this exciting spring hunt you will learn the old kind of Russian Hunting and enjoy beautiful nature of Russian forest waking up from the winter sleep. Geese, Ducks and Woodcocks can be added to the basic package.

Warm and waterproof clothes and high rubber boots are needed for this hunt.

Areas: Tver and Kirov regions

Route

Upon arrival in Moscow PRO crew will meet you and assist at the customs with the gun formalities. Then we will bring you to one of the 7 Moscow’s railway stations and depart you on the train to Kirov (8 hours) and then by car (2 hours) to the hunting area. Another option is vehicle transfer to the hunting area direct from the airport – about 5 to 7 hours.

Hunting season and terms:

End of April—begin of May

Group size: 2 – 8 hunters

Camps & Accommodation

From a simple hunting house based on double and three-person occupancy to a nice hunting lodge with single occupancy.

Hunting

Hunting is done on foot. Early morning hunter together with the local guide goes to the forest for the capercaillie and makes together stalk in the dark to the lekking ground hearing the “song” of capercaillie. Step by step they approach the place at the shooting distance 20 - 30 meters. Hunt for black grouse is done from the blind made at the lekking ground field.

Climate

Spring weather is unstable with possible rain and snow conditions. Daytime highs are 15 to 20 °C with lows of –3 to + 5 °C at night.

SCHEDULE

Day 1     Arrival in Moscow, transfer to the hunting area by car about 5 hours, accommodation

Day 2-5  4 days of hunting

Day 6     transfer back to Moscow, departure home