A European tower pheasant hunt is a structured shooting event where hunters, positioned in a circle around a central tower, shoot at pheasants released from the top, providing challenging overhead pass-shooting as the birds try to escape across fields. Participants rotate stations for varied angles, using trained dogs for retrieval, and often enjoy a social meal, making it a popular group or corporate activity in the fall/winter months, often including a post-hunt field walk. 

How it works

• Shooting: Hunters aim for high, fast-flying pheasants, honing their "pass shooting" skills (shooting moving targets in front of them).

• Rotation: After a round, a horn signals a rotation to the next station, giving everyone different shot angles.

• Retrieval: Trained gundogs (like Labradors or Cockers) retrieve downed birds.

• Social Aspect: Often includes a meal, drinks, and bird cleaning/packaging, with guides and dogs provided. 

• Setup: Shooters stand at stations (blinds/hay bales) in a circle around a tall tower.

• Release:

   Birds are released from the tower in groups at intervals, flying out quickly

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Key features

• Challenging: Birds fly hard and fast from the tower.

• Social: Perfect for large groups, corporate events, or friends.

• Structured: Offers a unique experience different from traditional field hunts.

• Equipment: Modified or full chokes and #6 shot are often recommended, and a lot of shells are needed.