First time stalker
Posted: Mon Feb 14, 2011 6:09 pm
Do I need a DSC to go out on an accompanied deer stalk with someone?:
Not at all. You don't need any type of qualification , however you will need relevant insurance if you intend to actually pull the trigger. You've most probably already got insurance so read the fine print and you'll likely find that you're already covered.
What is the going rate for a days shooting?
It really depends upon who or what organisation you approach. There are many supposed 'professional' stalkers who frankly take the p*** and will charge plenty. However, approach a recreational stalker with access to their own ground or the local branch of the British Deer Society and you'll likely be invited along if you offer to buy the pints afterwards or contribute to the petrol.
What happens if I get lucky and shoot something, is it mine to keep or do I have to pay more for the meat?
Again, it depends upon who you're with. There are times of the year when i can't get rid of the meat quick enough so am only too happy for someone to take the carcass away. However, if out with a 'professional' stalking service then make sure you confirm a price beforehand. Most will charge what they'd get from a dealer for the carcass if you want it.
Another good reason for confirming the carcass price is if you screw up the shot and render the carcass worthless to the game dealer through a badly placed shot. You'll definately be expected to take it away with you.
My general rule and that of many stalkers is.'You drop it, you drag it.' And i don't charge you for the meat. I'd much rather introduce another stalker into stalking.
Can I use my own rifle given that I do not have a permission to shoot outside of ranges?
Nope. Essentially yo need your rifle to be cleared for deer stalking and also permission to buy, aquire, keep and use expanding ammunition. In the unlikely event that you were actually given this permission without restrictions, it would likely be for that stalk - between 2 dates or in the company of a specific person.
I have assumed the role of mentor to a couple of inexperienced stalkers and as such they are prohibited from using their rifles and expanding ammunition unless in my company. These restrictions are usually lifted as soon as the stalker achieves DSC1 and/or permission to stalk on their own ground.
Can a second person accompany me as an observer but not shooting?
Bring as many as you wish, but with each additional person your chances of stalking into a deer successfully diminish significantly.
Where is a nice place to go?
Anywhere with plenty of deer and nice scenery. I'm biased but i think there's nothing that comes close to hill stalking in Scotland
Not at all. You don't need any type of qualification , however you will need relevant insurance if you intend to actually pull the trigger. You've most probably already got insurance so read the fine print and you'll likely find that you're already covered.
What is the going rate for a days shooting?
It really depends upon who or what organisation you approach. There are many supposed 'professional' stalkers who frankly take the p*** and will charge plenty. However, approach a recreational stalker with access to their own ground or the local branch of the British Deer Society and you'll likely be invited along if you offer to buy the pints afterwards or contribute to the petrol.
What happens if I get lucky and shoot something, is it mine to keep or do I have to pay more for the meat?
Again, it depends upon who you're with. There are times of the year when i can't get rid of the meat quick enough so am only too happy for someone to take the carcass away. However, if out with a 'professional' stalking service then make sure you confirm a price beforehand. Most will charge what they'd get from a dealer for the carcass if you want it.
Another good reason for confirming the carcass price is if you screw up the shot and render the carcass worthless to the game dealer through a badly placed shot. You'll definately be expected to take it away with you.
My general rule and that of many stalkers is.'You drop it, you drag it.' And i don't charge you for the meat. I'd much rather introduce another stalker into stalking.
Can I use my own rifle given that I do not have a permission to shoot outside of ranges?
Nope. Essentially yo need your rifle to be cleared for deer stalking and also permission to buy, aquire, keep and use expanding ammunition. In the unlikely event that you were actually given this permission without restrictions, it would likely be for that stalk - between 2 dates or in the company of a specific person.
I have assumed the role of mentor to a couple of inexperienced stalkers and as such they are prohibited from using their rifles and expanding ammunition unless in my company. These restrictions are usually lifted as soon as the stalker achieves DSC1 and/or permission to stalk on their own ground.
Can a second person accompany me as an observer but not shooting?
Bring as many as you wish, but with each additional person your chances of stalking into a deer successfully diminish significantly.
Where is a nice place to go?
Anywhere with plenty of deer and nice scenery. I'm biased but i think there's nothing that comes close to hill stalking in Scotland