Did you decide this year to leave for hunting Swedish Lapland for partridges and capercaillie?
One of the most captivating hunting destinations in the world is undoubtedly Swedish Lapland. This pristine region offers a unique hunting experience, immersing you in a wild and majestic natural environment where breathtaking landscapes and pure air make every hunting expedition an unforgettable adventure.
Swedish Lapland: A Hunter’s Paradise
Located in northern Sweden, Lapland is renowned for its vast open spaces, coniferous forests, and numerous natural reserves. This territory is the ideal habitat for many game species, including the highly prized ptarmigans and capercaillies, which attract hunters from around the globe.
Hunting Ptarmigans
Hunting ptarmigans in Lapland is an extraordinary experience. These game birds, known for their speed and agility, primarily inhabit open areas and bushy regions. Ptarmigans are typically hunted with the help of pointing dogs, which assist in locating, pointing, and retrieving the game.
Autumn is the best time to hunt ptarmigans, as the vibrant colors of the tundra and forests create a spectacular backdrop. Ptarmigans are fascinating birds with seasonal plumage changes; they are brown and speckled during summer and turn almost completely white in winter to blend with the snow. They are ground-dwelling birds that rely on camouflage and quick bursts of flight to escape predators.
When preparing for a ptarmigan hunt, it’s important to dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the day. The crisp, clear air and the stunning autumn scenery make the hunt not just a pursuit of game, but a deeply immersive nature experience.
Hunting Capercaillies
The capercaillie, or wood grouse, is one of the most coveted trophies for hunters. These majestic birds inhabit dense coniferous forests and are known for their elusive behavior and remarkable ability to blend into their surroundings. Capercaillies are the largest members of the grouse family and are particularly noted for the males’ impressive courtship displays during the spring mating season.
Hunting capercaillies requires patience, skill, and a thorough understanding of the terrain. This hunt usually takes place at dawn or dusk when capercaillies are most active. A good pair of binoculars and a precise aim are essential for success. Capercaillies have keen senses and are adept at evading hunters by staying motionless and relying on their camouflage or by flying to high branches.
Capercaillies feed on a variety of plants, seeds, and insects, and their diet changes with the seasons. In winter, they mainly consume pine needles, which gives their meat a distinctive flavor. The challenge of hunting these game birds lies not only in their wary nature but also in navigating the thick, often snowy forests of Lapland.
Tips for a Successful Hunt in Lapland
Proper Gear: Ensure you have waterproof and cold-resistant clothing, sturdy and comfortable boots, and high-quality hunting equipment.
Respect for Nature: Lapland’s pristine environment is its greatest asset. Follow local hunting regulations and practice sustainable hunting to preserve this beautiful region for future generations.
Sámi Culture: Lapland is also the homeland of the Sámi people, a culture rich in traditions and history. Engaging with local events and learning about the Sámi way of life will enrich your hunting adventure.
Hunting in Lapland is more than just a hunt; it’s a full immersion into one of Europe’s most beautiful and unspoiled wilderness areas. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a beginner, this adventure promises unique thrills and unforgettable memories. Prepare for your next hunting trip to Sweden and enjoy the remarkable experience that awaits you.
Here you will find a series of advice to help you approach this hunt at the best!
The behavior of the hunter and of his dog
From the woodcock to the francolin, to the white and northern partridges, black grouse, and wood grouse/capercaillie: the hunting ground of the Swedish Lapland offers a variety of unique huntable animals and it is characterized by forests and tundra areas that will leave you breathless.
Lapland is one of the very few destinations where the hunter has the opportunity to carry out his passion without guides, in total freedom.
But be careful not to underestimate good physical preparation: when hunting at high altitudes you need to be prepared and fit.
One of the main players in hunting in Lapland is the pointing dog, which must travel exclusively by land.
If you have decided to travel with your own car, you can take it directly.
Otherwise, you can fly to Sweden and entrust the transport of your dog to our team.
The staff is professional and attentive to the needs of your faithful companion, can take care of the transport of your dog that will arrive at its destination without any stress caused by the journey
All our vehicles used for the dogs transport are up to the occasion: without a doubt, a fundamental requirement for a trip in total safety.
Recommended weapons and ammunition
The shotgun par excellence for hunting in Sweden is the over-under, with barrel lengths from 62 to 65 in 12 gauge.
Freshly fired cases have to be collected and the 12 gauge remains the most used with a wide range of cartridges.
The Beretta over and under 687 EELL Diamond pigeon
Clothing and accessories
Late summer in Lapland is generally characterized by cool weather.
We must not forget that we are in the Arctic Circle and the rapidity with which the weather can change, leads to a certain caution.
Technical and comfortable clothing is recommended, because of the long walks: light but warm clothing, not necessarily thermal but certainly waterproof, is indispensable.
Wearing several layers of clothing is the best to adapting to the changing climate.
To accompany this clothing we suggest you equip yourself with a large backpack, and a good pair of boots both for hunting in the forest and for hunting in the mountains.
Gloves and hats can be useful during hunting, but also during various breaks (especially in case of bad weather).
Swedish Lapland is an evocative and wild territory at the same time: its landscapes will leave you breathless with their beauty.
Blueberries, drinking water everywhere, arctic blackberries, native animals, true colors, and very clean air: it is undoubtedly the ideal place for the hunting with dogs.
The silence of the woods, the roar of capercaillie beating wings, and the embrace of the forest frame your long but rewarding hunting days will make your experience unforgettable, to say the least.
Here’s what will make you fall in love with Lapland.
Lapland region
Lapland, often referred to as the “Land of the Midnight Sun” or the “Land of the Northern Lights,” is a region of unparalleled natural beauty located in the northernmost reaches of Europe. Spanning across Norway, Sweden, Finland, and parts of Russia, Lapland is renowned for its pristine wilderness, dramatic landscapes, and unique cultural heritage.
One of the most striking features of Lapland is its extreme seasonal variations, with long, harsh winters and brief, intense summers. During the winter months, the region is blanketed in snow and ice, creating a magical winter wonderland that attracts visitors from around the world. In contrast, the summer months bring the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, where the sun remains visible for 24 hours a day, bathing the landscape in a surreal golden glow.
Lapland is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including reindeer, moose, wolves, and bears, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can embark on unforgettable adventures such as husky sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, immersing themselves in the breathtaking scenery of Lapland’s forests, mountains, and frozen lakes.
In addition to its natural wonders, Lapland is also rich in cultural heritage, with indigenous Sami communities preserving their traditional way of life. Visitors can learn about Sami culture through experiences such as reindeer sleigh rides, visits to traditional Sami villages, and sampling authentic Sami cuisine.
Whether it’s witnessing the mesmerizing spectacle of the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky, exploring vast expanses of untouched wilderness, or experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Sami people, Lapland offers a truly unforgettable journey into the heart of the Arctic.
At this point, we just have to wish you a good trip to the magical Swedish Lapland and … good luck!
Montefeltro Staff, Enrico Zaina
“A passionate hunter (and former professional cyclist) has always devoted himself to his passions. An excellent guide for your hunting trips worldwide. He will follow all the programs reserved for feather enthusiasts and accompany them during the hunting season.”
