New deer vision for Scotland
A bold new vision for a community integrated approach to deer management in Scotland will offer more opportunities for trained recreational stalkers.
The Stalking Show 2026: DSC1 online launch and so much more
As official partner of The Stalking Show, BASC representatives spent last weekend at the Staffordshire County Showground engaging and advising deer stalkers, educating visitors and promoting best practice.
Improving access to deer management training
One of the talking points of the weekend was around the publication of the government’s deer impacts policy statement for England.
BASC chief executive Ian Bell and chairman Eoghan Cameron took to the stage to discuss the statement with fellow panellists from Natural England and the Forestry Commission.
We also launched our new online DSC1 theory course, making the qualification easier to access.
The new course removes the need to take four days away from work or family. It will still include a practical element, which will need to be completed at an assessment day, held at locations around the UK.Â
Butchery contests and beyond
The Really Wild Kitchen gave chefs and game enthusiasts the chance to share recipes, top tips and samples with the audience.
A butchery competition was judged by BASC food ambassadors Jose Souto and Rachel Green. Both also appeared in the Really Wild Kitchen over the weekend.
In addition, practical sessions ran throughout the weekend, covering carcass handling, butchery and venison preparation.Â
There were plenty of prizes up for grabs for visitors to the BASC stand, including a HIKMICRO Alpex Pro, Danum Blades knife and access to the new online DSC1 course.
The show brought together many of the biggest brands and leading names in deer stalking. Visitors could also try the latest equipment and technology before deciding what suited them.
Deer call and butchery competitions also returned and plenty of visitors put their skills to the test under the watchful eyes of experts.
Putting stalkers at the heart of the show
The event gave members a chance to receive advice and guidance from BASC experts. Members of staff from our firearms team were on hand to offer tailored advice on licensing, variations and firearms legislation.
Our deer management and training teams were kept busy all weekend by visitors of all ages and experience levels.Â
The success of this year’s event underlined why BASC is proud to be an official partner of The Stalking Show.Â
Terry Behan, BASC deputy director of shooting and operations, said: “With the launch of the new online DSC1 theory course and practical assessment days available around the UK, it has never been easier for more people to take their first steps into deer stalking and deer management. This is a one of a kind course, externally verified by Lantra and the heritage and certification of DMQ.
For more information on the DSC1 online theory course and upcoming assessment dates, visit the BASC events page.
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