When is the best time of year to cut back a hazelnut bush?

Question:What's best? Early spring before the sap rises? Or late fall, after the nuts have dried. I'm guessing while the nuts mature would not be appropriate. Thanks!

Answers:
FUN!

"Hazelnuts generally crop on 1-year-old shoots, and in the USA in established orchards, 15–20% of the orchard may be pruned on a 5–6 year rotation plan. Large pruning cuts should be avoided to prevent infections from wood rots. Pruning should take place after the pollen has shed and the catkins have fallen (late winter to early spring)."

http://www.agric.nsw.gov.au/reader/11246...