The last word

For me decoying is the most effective method for shooting pigeons but only on ground that isn’t overshot. In January birds will decoy well but February can be tricky due to the amount of roost shooting that can take place in certain counties. Choosing your options to be most effective during the winter months is very important but February is the best time for everyone to enjoy this sporting bird and get out and do a bit. I’m fairly relaxed about what happens in February; I take the view that so long as I’m out I’m happy, on my own or with friends.

In an ideal world it would be fantastic if all types of pigeon shooting worked together but unfortunately it doesn’t happen like that. To maximise your pigeon shooting — whether for your pleasure or for the farmer’s crops — work out the best option for the circumstances.