There’s a long and colorful history of shooting as a sport in Ireland, with an abundant stock of migratory wildfowl for upland hunting enthusiasts. If you’re interested in getting out in the country and having an adventure, a shooting vacation could be for you.
Here at LTR Castles, we arrange bespoke trips to some of Ireland’s most prestigious estates. Read our guide now for the best private properties for shooting.
This beautiful castle, situated on the shores of the Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, is one of the finest spots for shooting in Northern Ireland. The estate is made up of 1,900 acres of parkland, woodland, lough and islands, with excellent woodcock and snipe shooting.
Best time of year: The season runs from October to the end of January.
Shooting tips: For woodcock, arrive after the full moon in November as this is when they are most plentiful.
Other activities: Tennis, rowing and sailing are available on site. There are also a number of golf courses nearby.
If you’re interested in a pheasant hunt, we recommend booking a stay at Lough Cutra Castle. This spectacular property in County Galway was built in the late 18th Century, although the land can be traced as far back as 866 AD. There is excellent pheasant shooting – or for beginners, there’s also clay pigeon shooting on site.
Best time of year:
The season tends to run from November until the end of January in Ireland.
Shooting tips: Late hunts can be just as rewarding as early morning hunts. Pheasants start to move out of heavy cover during the last hour of daylight.
Other activities: Lough Cutra Castle is also a great location for horse riding, pike fishing, boating and mountain biking.
The 12th Century Belle Isle estate is another spot in County Fermanagh ideal for woodcock and snipe shooting. Spread across 470 acres with stunning views over Lough Erne, Belle Isle is an exclusive property, sleeping 26 people across 13 double or twin rooms.
Best time of year: From October to the end of January, but with woodcock coming into County Fermanagh in November time during the full moon.
Shooting tips: The European woodcock population is high, but migratory woodcock in Ireland can vary in numbers depending on the weather.
Other activities: Guests staying at Belle Isle can enjoy pike fishing on Lough Erne or salmon fishing on the River Mourne. There are also boat trips available on the estate’s own yacht, and a fantastic Belle Isle Cookery School for foodies.
Annabel started out her working life in the youth development and adventure travel industry. She planned and organised for many groups of school children to take part in expeditions to developing countries around the world. In 2008, she started working for Loyd & Townsend Rose and is now responsible for the smooth running and development of the website and other marketing aspects of the company.
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Hello,
Would be interested in upland bird hunts in Ireland and Scotland.
Thanks,
Ron
I am trying to organise one or two day’s game shooting for three guns (me and my two sons) on or around 6 October 2026 to coincide with my 60th birthday. Is that something that you could assist with? We are all experienced guns.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards,
Chris Stone
Dear Chris, thank you very much for your enquiry. I have passed it onto one of our travel consultants who will get back to you as soon as possible. Many thanks and best wishes. Annabel