Rough shooting is a type of hunting where the hunter walks through rugged or uneven terrain in search of game birds or small game. This style of hunting involves active movement, with the hunter typically covering large areas on foot, often in dense brush, fields, or wooded areas. The goal is to flush out game, such as pheasants, partridges, or rabbits, that may be hiding in the undergrowth, allowing the hunter to take a shot when the game is forced into the open.

Rough shooting requires a good level of fitness and stamina, as it often involves walking long distances across challenging terrain. It is particularly popular for upland bird hunting, where hunters use dogs to help locate and flush out the game, although some hunters prefer to do it without dogs for a more traditional experience. The nature of rough shooting means that hunters need to be adaptable, ready to shoot quickly and accurately when game is flushed, and able to handle the physical demands of walking through difficult landscapes.

Unlike more stationary forms of hunting, such as hunting from blinds or stands, rough shooting is more dynamic and can provide a more active, engaging hunting experience. Hunters may also encounter a variety of game species, as this method does not specifically target one type of animal, but instead offers the possibility of encountering different birds and small mammals along the way. The unpredictability and excitement of flushing out game in natural habitats make rough shooting an appealing choice for hunters seeking an active and immersive outdoor adventure.