Planning your trip
Visas
A visa is required to visit Russia for holders of US and EU passports. Because the documentation requirements are extensive (they may include a letter of invitation from your outfitter and confirmation of hotel reservations, as well as personal information), allow plenty of time—at least a month—before your trip to take care of this process. See http://www.russianembassy.org/page/consular-issues for more information.
Importing Firearms
Foreign hunters can bring hunting rifles into the country for the duration of a planned hunt, as specified in their outfitter’s invitation. The procedure for receiving an import permit generally takes at least a month, so it’s important to send the necessary documents to your outfitter well in advance.
It’s extremely important that the model and serial number of the rifle, as well as the amount of ammo you bring (no more than 100 rounds allowed), match exactly the information you provided on the permit. Note that archery equipment and silencers are not allowed for hunting in Russia. You must carry your firearms permit on your person while you are in Russia.
Upon arrival
Plan in advance
For most Russian hunting trips, you will make your initial arrival in Moscow. If you are not transferring immediately to a domestic flight, make arrangements in advance for your outfitter or a representative to meet you at the airport and take you to a hotel. Be sure to exchange some currency in the airport or at a Moscow bank so you are carrying cash in rubles, as many rural areas do not accept credit cards. Because most hunts require traveling long distances from Moscow, it’s important to arrange your travel itinerary well in advance of your hunt. Your outfitter can help you with this process; be sure to discuss it with him in detail well before your arrival.
Hunting
Safety and strict adherence to hunting regulations are paramount when hunting in Russia. Be sure that you are clear on all the regulations in your hunting area and know exactly what you are and are not allowed to shoot.
After the hunt
Taxidermy
While certain trophies may be exported in the hunter’s luggage if the necessary paperwork has been completed in advance, most big-game animals such as moose, maral, stag, bears, and wolves must be treated and dried by a taxidermist and a health certificate must be issued before they can be exported. Be sure to bring some business cards with the address of your chosen taxidermist or trophy expeditor and affix one to the skull and one to the skin of your animal to ensure they are shipped to the right place.
