a few words about us
Chichester Harbour Wildfowlers' Association
was formed after Pagham Wildfowlers, having begun to shoot in the harbour, realised that one club covering both areas was too large to manage on a volunteer basis. Consequently,
it was decided that a separate club should exist to cater for those wanting to wildfowl in Chichester Harbour, and so CHWA was born.
Wildfowling
The Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 permits the taking of nine species of duck, four species of geese and three species of wader. The principal species of interest to the wildfowler in the local harbours are mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), wigeon (Anas penelope) and teal (Anas crecca). These are principally migratory duck which breed in the tundra regions of northern Europe and which migrate in large numbers every autumn to spend the winter in Western Europe and Great Britain.
If you would like further information on becoming a member of SWAWMA please follow the link below and fill out our contact form.
probationer's diary
People who join S.W.A.W.M.A. are accepted initially as provisional members.
This status lasts for one season and ensures that 'fowlers new to the club understand how to be safe when shooting on the harbour as well as staying within the rules.
Follow the link bellow to find out what your first year would entail.
Probationary Membership
Prior to the start of the season an introductory evening is held to give new members some insight into the type of equipment and clothing that will be required and how to get the most from their first year of membership. During this introductory evening you will also receive your Member’s pack which includes the Association Rules, harbour maps, quarry identification charts, a suggested reading list and other useful information regarding wildfowling.
Several organised flights are held during the season to ensure that all new members get an opportunity to meet other members of the Association and perhaps shoot in areas of the harbours that they have not yet visited.
There are also several social events held throughout the year to which all members are welcome. These are often centred on some aspect of wildfowling or other country pursuit.
During their first year, every probationary member is required to attend three workparty activities. Opportunities are extremely varied and include conservation work around the harbours, helping out at country shows and other such association events
Membership
Would you like to join us and enjoy traditional wildfowling in and around Chichester, Emsworth and Pagham Harbours?
The membership of SWAWMA is drawn from a wide range of ages and occupations. Prospective members are screened by the Committee prior to obtaining full membership. During this probationary year they must be accompanied onto the marsh by an experienced wildfowler. A good knowledge of all the Association’s shooting and refuge areas is essential and these must be learnt thoroughly.
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Full membership is granted only when the candidate satisfies an examining committee that he or she is fully acquainted with the law relating to shooting, all the Association’s boundaries and is competent in wildfowl identification and shotgun safety.
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Members are encouraged to participate in the wide-ranging activities of the various sub-committees of SWAWMA. These include conservation work both inland and in the harbours, varied educational programmes, attending country shows, dog training sessions and a harbour wardening system.
Contact us
