The rules of being a modern pigeon Shot

Woodpigeon shooting is rightly regarded as one of the most sporting challenges a keen Shot can take on. Pigeon are known as the grey grouse, and though they rarely offer the unique challenge of a speeding downwind grouse, they make up for that in their much greater aerobatic ability to change course, direction and speed with the merest flick of a wing.

I’ve been shooting pigeon seriously for nearly 30 years and still have the keenest sense of anticipation every day that I go out. With pigeon, you never quite know what’s going to happen: you can expect to shoot 200 and only shoot 20, or vice versa. So how have things changed over the years, and how can you maximise your chances?

I’m assuming that the necessary action has been taken to ensure that you are complying with the terms of the general licence, just in case you are challenged. I’m also assuming that you have done the reconnaissance necessary, not just to establish that there are pigeon there, but where the flight-lines are and where the best place for