How to Book the Perfect Driven Wild Boar Hunting Trip

This guide should give you a comprehensive overview on how to book the perfect driven wild boar (DWB) hunting trip. Whether this is your first or tenth hunt, this guide contains some key takeaways to ensure your next trip is the best one yet.

If this is your first expedition, we highly recommend booking a guided trip with an emphasis on safety and education. DWB hunts are fast paced and potentially dangerous without proper preparation. Whatever the style of trip or location, DWB is an incredible experience that’ll have you hooked from day one!

In this article we will cover:

• Choosing the right location
• Selecting the perfect agent
• The type of driven hunt
• Legal considerations
• Timing
• What to bring
• Costs
• Pre-trip training

Choosing the right location

Within reach of Europe, we are spoilt for choice for locations for DWB hunting trips and each country offers hunters something truly unique. When choosing the location for your trip, it’s important to consider the type of terrain, time of year, and travel logistics.

Selecting the perfect tour agent

Choosing the right agent is just as important as choosing the right location, they can make or break your trip. We recommend using an agent that has been running trips for years. Longstanding agents tend to have the most knowledge and experience to ensure you have the best trip possible. Look at their reviews, testimonials, and any accreditations they may have e.g. membership in a hunting federation such as a BASC Trade membership.

A professional agent should offer:

• Insurance.
• Expert guides and knowledge of the local hunting area.
• High safety standards, such as daily safety briefings, safe shooting lanes etc.
• Accommodation and transport.
• Advice on how to travel abroad with guns and assistance with necessary paperwork.
• Arranging your hunting licenses in the host country.

Above is a French chateau that runs DWB on day one and duck on day two.

The type of driven hunt

All types of DWB have their pros and cons, it’s about finding the right trip for you. Large traditional drives are great for meeting other hunters  and typically have a higher success rate. Whereas smaller private groups tend to be more exclusive.

Typical options include; large traditional drives, small private group hunts, high fences estates and/or free range hunts.

Legal considerations

To hunt wild boar in Europe you will need:

• A valid firearms license
• Permission from the local government to enter the country with firearms. This makes driving from the UK more complicated if you need to cross multiple borders. Depending on your destination, it may be easier to fly directly to your hunting country.
• Temporary hunting license in the host country, this is typically arranged by your agent
• Hunting insurance, we recommend BASC insurance
  
  

Timing

In Europe, the DWB season runs in autumn and winter, typically October - Feb, depending on local laws. Except in France where the season finishes in March. It’s worth noting that early in the season vegetation can be high making it difficult to move the boar.

What to bring

Rifle - fast bolt action, straight pull or double rifles are commonly used
Caliber - min 270 caliber in some countries and 30 caliber in others
Optics - red dot or low magnification scope (1-4x)
Hearing protection - this is an entirely personal preference, our favorite is electronic ear protection as they are typically most comfortable through the day and allow you to easily hear the boar approaching
High visibility clothing - often mandated in many countries
Warm, waterproof gear - depending on the location, temperatures are very low in winter.
Sturdy footwear - although walking distances are minimal, we advise good quality footwear as terrain can sometimes be uneven.

Costs

Prices vary depending on length of trip, location and accommodation. Typically trips cost anywhere between £800 for a single day to £3600 for a five day trip. This pricing normally includes lodging, meals, expert guides, licenses, trophy fees, butchering, transport to and from the hunting grounds, and occasionally  airport pick up.

Extras to consider; flights, alcohol and tips.

Pre-trip training

In order to get the best out of your trip, we recommend attending one of the UK’s DWB training centres. This is an excellent opportunity to test out your rifle and iron out any teething issues before your big trip.

Holland & Holland - located just outside NW London, Holland & Holland offer a unique indoor rifle cinema where you can fire live rounds, up to .500 at a vast arrange of quarry and moving targets indoors. This specialist site allows you to use your own rifle, offering excellent simulation experience.
Braces of Bristol -  with the latest Promatic running boar target, available on an hourly basis offering both individual training/practice and group bookings. Located close to Bristol Airport in south Bristol.
Corinium Rifle Range - the UK’s oldest custom DWB range in the UK, located in the Cotswolds. Boasting a 40m variable speed target and coaching from the UK’s only Aimpoint Shooting Academy trainer. Available for individual or small group coaching sessions.
Diggle Rifle Range - located in the beautiful Pennine hills, Diggle offers a driven wild boar range to hone your skills. 

Also, keep an eye on The Stalking Directory and BACS regional groups for one off DWB events.

To find out more, enquire here to speak to Mark Curtis and start your adventure!