Small game
A small game hunting permit provides an opportunity to hunt species such as grouse, hare, waterfowl and Canadian beaver (Castor canadensis). The type of permit and the hunting seasons define which species can be hunted in each hunting area during the different parts of the season.
Each year, in approximately mid-August, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry sets the length of hunting seasons for each grouse species according to the current population trends. The seasons vary regionally from a three-month season (from 10 September to 10 December) to a total ban on hunting.
The main hunting seasons for small game are
- Grouse species (Galliformes): Typically either a one-, two- or three-month hunting season starting from 10 September
- Waterfowl (i.e. ducks and geese): From 20 August (noon) to 31 December
- Mountain hare: From 1 September to 28 February
- Canadian beaver: From 20 August to 30 April
Please note the annual derogations for certain species.
The permit sales for the next hunting season start annually in early June. The validity of permit varies from one day to a season. The permits are area- and game-specific and vary in duration and price. For guest hunters, we recommend buying day permits.
Hunters under the age of 18 years have a special discount price.
Different types of permits
Different permits give you the right to hunt different game species or species groups.
Grouse permit includes
- Capercaillie, black grouse, hazel grouse, willow grouse
- Waterfowl (ducks, geese) and mountain hare
- Small predators (e.g. red fox, raccoon dog, American mink), unprotected birds (e.g. crow, magpie), wild boar
Permit options: Day permits and seasonal permits via an application process
Waterfowl and hare permit includes
- Waterfowl (ducks, geese) and mountain hare
- Small predators (e.g. red fox, raccoon dog, American mink), unprotected birds (e.g. crow, magpie), wild boar
Permit options: Day and seasonal permits
Beaver permit includes
- Canadian beaver
- Small predators (e.g. red fox, raccoon dog, American mink), unprotected birds (e.g. crow, magpie), wild boar
Permit options: Seasonal permits
Small predator permit includes
- Small predators (e.g. red fox, raccoon dog, American mink), unprotected birds (e.g. crow, magpie), wild boar
Permit options: Seasonal permits
To learn more about the permits and game species included or to purchase a permit, please contact our customer service:
The service is open on weekdays from 9 AM to 3 PM. You can also contact us by email: eraluvat(a)metsa.fi.
Planning grouse hunting
The most popular small game species are black grouse, capercaillie and hazel grouse, and in the northernmost parts of Finland willow grouse.
Due to the popularity of grouse hunting and the high annual variation in their populations, Wildlife Service Finland plans the maximum number of permits which can be sold per hunting area per season. Variables used in the planning process include the annually changing density of each grouse species’ population, the previous years’ bag reports and statistics, and the length of forthcoming hunting season.
The data is combined and analyzed in a web-based planning system. As a result, the daily and seasonal maximum quotas of permits secure the ecological and social sustainability of grouse hunting. The quotas, planning variables and statistics are documented in the system for transparency. The statistics have also proved to be a useful tool for wildlife research.
Open seasons
Before setting out on a hunting trip, it is a good idea to check the open seasons, as they vary from year to year. Open seasons are updated annually on the Finnish Wildlife Agency website.
Open seasons may vary within Metsähallitus permit areas if the area is located in multiple municipalities.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry may prohibit or limit the hunting of game species by decree.
Check open seasons on the website of the Finnish Wildlife Agency (riista.fi).