Jonty Drew writes this month's Almanac and shares his belief in holding back in September and urges a visit to the Isle of Purbeck.
With Peter, and many of you, enjoying a well-earned holiday, the responsibility of writing this month's Almanac has been handed over to me. September is an exciting time in the deer stalking world, as the Roebuck season comes to a close and anticipation builds for the busy stalking months ahead.
With the days growing shorter and the air turning cooler, September is an ideal time to get out into the great British countryside. For us deer stalkers however, it’s a time for patience and preparation as we look forward to October. I’ve always believed that holding off in September - allowing the deer some space and reducing their habituation to stalking - can lead to a more fruitful October and following months. Your neighbouring stalkers may well be left wondering why your grounds are so productive!
In the South of England, on the scenic Isle of Purbeck, Sika stags start to separate from their bachelor groups, where they've spent the summer, and begin to establish their territories. Dorset holds a special place for me, as my family has roots there going back generations. If you haven't visited the Isle of Purbeck yet, I would highly recommend doing so, it's truly breathtaking. It is a personal privilege to be able to stalk the Isle of Purbeck annually with the Capreolus Club.
Similarly, in the Scottish Highlands, the Red stags are beginning to break away from their single sex herds in pursuit of hinds, with their roars echoing across the open hill. This is the peak period on Scottish estates that welcome recreational stalkers, as Highland stalkers and Ghillies guide clients and guests to the iconic Red Stag during the early days of the rut.
Peter will once again be hosting the Scotland trip for the Capreolus Club at Dalness House in Glen Etive, from 2nd to 4th October. There is still one spot available on the trip and we are thrilled to extend this opportunity to our wider audience. If you or someone you know might want to join, please contact us directly.
Members, along with their wives and partners, are invited to stay at Dalness House, nestled in the stunning Glen Etive. If you are looking to invite your ‘better half’ on a hunting trip, this is the perfect opportunity. Not only will you be stalking the Monarch of the Glen during peak season, but on the final day, we have also arranged a day’s fishing on the loch with a Ghillie.
During the daytime, partners may join you on the hill to stalk, stretch their legs on some superb hiking trails, or simply enjoy the warm hospitality of the lodge, which comes with a chef and housekeeper. In the evenings, enjoy roaring fires and fine dining with the comradery of Club members. This trip won’t fail to impress, so have a chat with your other half and take this opportunity to join us on this absolute corker of a trip.
Don’t forget that for those of you who are new to deer stalking or looking to refine your skills, the LANTRA-approved Proficient Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1 is an excellent starting point. You can find more information about the course and sign up here: Proficient Deer Stalking Course - PDS1.
Finally, I would like to wish you all a wonderful month ahead, and I look forward to contributing to the Almanac again soon.
IN Season in England & Wales: Roebuck, Fallow Buck, Red & Sika Stag, Muntjac Buck & Muntjac Doe
OFF Season in England & Wales: Roe Doe, Fallow Doe, Sika Hind, Red Hind, CWD Bucks & CWD Doe
IN Season in Scotland: Roebuck, Fallow Buck, Red Stag & Sika Stag
OFF Season in Scotland: Roe Doe, Fallow Doe, Sika Hind, Red Hind
Jonty Drew - Operations Manager
