HUNTING
RED DEER
Red deer thrive in Latvia’s mixed forests and open woodlands, where they form herds during winter for protection and scatter in summer to graze on grasses, shoots, and bark in areas like Kurzeme. With population that’s boomed over the last two decades – reaching estimatesof over 30’000 thousand, thanks to habitat recovery and management-these majetic animals are social and vigilant, often led by dominant stags during the rut season when they bellow to attract mates and defend territory.
Hunting them can be moderately tough, especially for trophy stags, as they’re elusive and influenced heavily by human activities. But here at our hunting grounds, we have managed to create an ecosystem that allows hunters to experience this hunt fully.
BOARS
Wild boars in Latvia roam dense forests, farmlands and shrublands, rooting for food like acorns, roots, and crops while forming family groups called sounders that stick together for safety. Their population has fluctuated over the years, but they are still intelligent survivors with strong memories, adapting quickly to threats.
Hunting boars isn’t too hard for beginners since they’re abundant and active year-round, but it can get tricky with their speed and wariness.
ROEBUCK
Roebucks love Latvia’s varied landscapes from deciduous forests and farmland to meadows and moors, where they live solitary or in small family groups, browsing n tender plants and staying alert with their keen senses to dodge predators like lynx or wolves. Their populationis on the rise, but sometimes faces pressure from predators and habitat changes, making them resilient species that’s well adapted.
Hunting roebucks isn’t considered difficult, but it can get challenging due their skittish nature and quick escapes, often requires quiet stalking or calling.
ELK
Elk, known locally as moose, hang out in Latvia’s northern forests, swamps, and riverbanks, munching on aquatic plants and tree bark, while leading mostly solitary lives except during mating season when bulls get territorial and roam widely.
Hunting elk is pretty demanding and challenging, with their huge size and elusive habits in rough terrain making it a test of endurance and strategy.
WOLVES
Wolves in Latvia prefer deep forests and high bogs for denning and hunting, living in tight-knit packs 4-8 members that cooperate to take down prey like deer or boar, with territories spanning up to 300 square kilometers. They are clever and adaptable, communicating with howls ad avoiding humans when possible.
Hunting wolves is quite difficult due to their intelligence, pack dynamics, and vast ranges, requiring tactics like tracking or baiting under strick quotas.
Legal procedures for Foreign hunters
As a premier destination for ethical and sustainable hunting in the Baltics, Latvia offers thrilling opportunities. However to ensure a smooth and compliant experience, foreign hunters must follow specific legal procedures. These regulations are governed by the Latvian Hunting Law and related to Cabinet Regulations, administered by the State Forest Service.
- ENTRY VISA REQUIREMENTS
EU/EEA Citizens: No Visa is required for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180 day period). You can enter Latvia with a valid passport or national ID card.
Non-EU/EEA Citize: A Schengen visa (Type C) is typically required for stays up to 90 days unless your country has a visa-free agreement with Latvia. Apply at the Latvian embassy or consultate in your home country providing proof of purpose.
2. OBTAINING A LATVIAN HUNTING PERMIT
Foreign hunters do not need to pass a Latvian hunter’s exam if you hold a valid hunting license from your country of residence. Instead, apply for a temporary Hunting Permit of the Republic of Latvia, which allows you to hunt legally during your stay.
Application Process:
- Submit your application in person , by mail or electronically via the VMD website (vmd.gov.lv) at least 2-4 weeks before your trip.
- Provide: A copy of your passport, a copy of your home country’s hunting license, and proof of any prior hunting experience if required.
- Pay the fee at the VMD office in Riga or online. 1 – day permit: 14.23 EUR ; 10 – day permit: 35.57 EUR; Seasonal permit: 99.60 EUR.
3. FIREARM IMPORT AND PERMITS
Latvia strictly regulates firearms under the Law of the Circulation of Weapons. Foreign hunters can import and use hunting rifles, but you must obtain specific permits for temporary import and carrying.
Requirements for All Foreigners :
-Your firearm must be legally registered in your home country, and you need a valid firearm license from there.
– Apply for a Latvian Firearm Carrying Permit and Temporary Import Certificate from the State Police at least 2 weeks in advance. Submit via e-mail (lasn@vp.gov.lv) or in person at Stabu iela 89, Riga.
– Documents needed: Copy of passport, copy of home hunting license, copy of firearm registration certificate (including make, model, serial number, and caliber), and a hunting invitation letter from our club. (We provide this).
– The permit allows carrying only during hunts and requires secure storage otherwise.
Transport rules and prohibited items :
Firearms must be unloaded, in a locked case, and declared at customs upon arrival. Ammunition is limited to what you’ll use. Export follows similar rules.
Automatic weapons, suppressors (unless approved), and handguns are generally not allowed for hunting.