The KP hunting season rules 2026 take effect on February 15, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department announced.
The department confirmed that waterfowl hunting will continue until March 15. However, hunters may operate only on Saturdays and Sundays to limit pressure on wildlife.
Officials require every hunter to carry a valid shooting licence. The licence fee is PKR 6,000, and authorities will not grant any exemptions.
Each hunter may take a maximum of five birds per day. The department set this limit to protect bird populations and preserve ecological balance.
Authorities have also banned MP3 players and electronic hunting devices. Wildlife officers will act against violations under existing laws.
Read: Gilgit-Baltistan to Auction 118 Hunting Permits for 2025-26 Season
Meanwhile, strict hunting bans remain in force in sensitive regions. These include selected areas of Lower Chitral and Upper Chitral.
In addition, the government has declared Shandur Lake, Broghil, and Tor Khos as protected zones. Hunting is not allowed in these locations under any circumstances.
The Wildlife Department urged hunters to follow all government directives. Officials warned that ignorance of the rules will not excuse violations.
The announcement aligns with the province’s focus on regulated hunting. Officials believe controlled activity supports conservation and community interests.
Recently, a regulated trophy hunt highlighted this approach. On December 31, 2025, a Russian national legally hunted a rare Kashmiri markhor in Chitral after securing an official permit.
The hunt took place in the Gahirat Gol Game Reserve with full oversight. Wildlife officials supervised the process and ensured compliance.
Authorities confirmed that the hunter paid $68,000 for the permit. Security personnel and Village Conservation Committee representatives remained present throughout the hunt.
Officials conducted the hunt under the Community-Based Trophy Hunting Program. The program directs a major share of revenue to local welfare and conservation projects.
The Wildlife Department says this model benefits nearby communities. It also strengthens long-term wildlife protection.
As the season approaches, officials advised hunters to stay informed. They also urged strict compliance to avoid legal action.
