Cotswolds stalking scheme

The BASC Cotswolds stalking scheme is open to all BASC members and provides an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience of stalking wild deer under the supervision of experienced stalking guides. 

The scheme is particularly suited to: 

  • novice stalkers looking for an introduction to stalking wild deer;
  • stalkers who have completed DSC1 and are looking to gain the practical experience required to progress towards their DSC2; and
  • more experienced stalkers who want to develop their skills and gain further experience of managing wild deer. 

The Cotswolds

The scheme is based on a large private estate in the Cotswolds, which supports healthy populations of fallow, roe and muntjac deer. The deer are an important part of the estate’s natural heritage and are managed carefully to maintain a healthy and sustainable population in balance with the available habitat. 

An important part of this management is the controlled culling of female deer and young males. This helps to maintain appropriate deer numbers and reduce the impact of browsing on the estate’s woodlands and other habitats. 

The estate has agreed to allow BASC members to assist with this management programme under the close supervision of its experienced stalking guides. 

Cost

£175 per outing, which will last approximately three hours. There are no additional stalking fees, regardless of whether a deer is successfully culled. The fee is non-refundable if no deer are shot. 

Your first outing will always be an afternoon session. This allows sufficient time for an initial safety briefing and a range session, including checking the zero of your rifle, before going stalking. 

All carcasses remain the property of the estate but may be purchased by the stalker at the prevailing game dealer rate. 

Accompanied stalking

All stalking undertaken through the scheme is accompanied by an experienced stalking guide, who will determine the appropriate method of stalking according to the circumstances.

An outing may involve: 

  • foot stalking; 
  • high-seat stalking; or 
  • a combination of both. 

All participants will receive a detailed safety briefing from the stalking guide before entering the stalking area.

Who to contact for further information

South West Regional Office 
Tel: 01884 260910 
Email: southwest@basc.org.uk  

The British Association for Shooting & Conservation 
Marford Mill 
Rossett 
Wrexham 
LL12 0HL 

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