Stalking Seasons

Deer stalking requires stealth and patience. In many terrains, it also requires a great deal of physical endurance and ability. While any stalker can benefit from the crisp air and picturesque surroundings, only those with skill and the right equipment will find the most success.

Tips for Deer Stalking:

1. Imagine walking so slowly that you think you’ll never reach your destination – then go slower! Movement is the easiest way to be spotted.

2. Always work into the wind. Deer have a highly adapted sense of smell and they will sniff a human long before you get close enough to take a shot.

3. Get as close as you can to your quarry. Whilst there are bragging rights in how far your shot was, the risk of injuring your quarry is greatly increased the further you are from it.

4. Use a stalker/ghillie if one is available. Their knowledge of the terrain, the conditions and where deer might be on any given day will save you hours of time and loads of energy.

For the very best stalking kit, we recommend the Harkila Pro Hunter range; the quality & weather-proofing is second-to-none, and the silent outer material allows you to remain under the radar. Each piece can be worn separately, but also fit together for the ultimate stalking outfit.

Each species of deer comes with its own individual challenges, be it differences in behaviour, terrain or seasonality. For example, red hind stalking takes place over the autumn & winter months, while the roe deer season falls in the spring & summer. As a result, your kit needs to be radically different in order to match the climate.

For an in-depth guide to roe deer stalking, along with our very best lightweight spring/summer stalking clothing, you can read our roe deer stalking guide here.

UK Deer Stalking Calendar

*When culling female muntjac deer, you should select immature or visibly pregnant females to avoid leaving dependent young.