Deerstalkers in Northern Ireland will once again have access to accompanied deer stalking, thanks to the British Association for Shooting and Conservation.
The BASC Baronscourt Deer Stalking scheme opens for business on 1st August and runs until the end of February. During that period, BASC members can cull sika deer under the expert guidance of the estate’s experienced stalking guides.
The scheme, which offers high quality accompanied foot and high-seat stalking, is designed to provide practical follow-on experience for members who have completed their Deer Stalking Certificate (DSC) 1 qualification. It will also help the estate manage its wild population of Sika deer.
BASC NI director Tommy Mayne said: “Access to deer stalking in Northern Ireland has always been very limited, but BASC has been working closely with the estate to provide high quality stalking opportunities for our members.
“Any member who wishes to complete their DSC 2 portfolio can do so using one of the estate’s approved witnesses.
“In addition to DSC 1 and 2, we will also be running intermediate deer stalking courses and carcass and butchery courses from November onwards. Further details of these courses can be found on the BASC website.
“Members can also take advantage of the estate’s excellent fishing and four-star self-catered accommodation, both of which will be available at a discount.”
Lord Jamie Hamilton, who runs the estate on behalf of his family, said: “We are pleased to once again welcome BASC members back to Baronscourt.
“The estate has a responsibility to manage its valued deer herd to ensure numbers are maintained at a sustainable level and that animal welfare is of the highest standard.
“Participating members will experience first-hand the professionalism of our stalking team, developing valuable skills as a result of those stalking opportunities.”
To register for the scheme please contact the BASC NI office on 028 92 60 50 50 or email nire@0ld.basc.org.uk
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