Highland Stalking
Stalking is the term commonly used in Scotland for the pursuit of large mammals, particularly deer. At Ardnamurchan, this may be enjoyed in one form or another all year round. With no less than 5 species to choose from, each with its own peculiarities, the stalker or hunter has a wide variety of choice.
Red deer - ‘The monarch of the Glen’The majestic red deer is to be found in the wild on the Ardnamurchan peninsular. Stalking this magnificent beast in this unique environment presents a challenge that has inspired sportsmen throughout the world. A day on the hill culminating in a successful stalk, is the very pinnacle of many a hunters ambition. The wild and remote land in which he lives harbours a wealth of other rare and exciting wildlife.
Stalking takes place from late summer into the autumn and the rut, a time when the hill and forests of Ardnamurchan thunder to the challenges of the competing stags. Stags can be taken in a number of ways traditionally this is an all day adventure which commences with the location of a suitable animal called spying and then a lengthy approach using the terrain to conceal the hunters, often ending with a crawl into the firing position. Throughout this whole experience, your guide will involve you and you will really take part in this hunt. The selection of the animal is taken by your guide to ensure the success of the herd and that you are left with a memorable trophy of the ultimate hunting experience.
Not every hunter is suited to travelling the arduous terrain and in recognition of this and the fact that many of our red deer spend their year in a forest environment; we offer the ‘woodland experience’. This can be taken on its own or as a mixture for a group who wish to experience not only open hill but the woodland at the same time. Typically this is conducted early morning and evening and can be stalking along the forest edge or from high seats. Some of our high seats are suitable for disabled access providing an opportunity for all.
If you have any special requirement, please feel free to call us.
Roe DeerOften unsung as a quarry and unknown too many of our American hunters, the dainty roe deer is a challenging and interesting hunt. Normally takes place early morning and late evening during the summer months, along the forest edge or on high seats. These fiercely territorial and elusive deer can be encountered in our ancient oak woodland and conifer forests. A much smaller trophy than our red deer, the animals is usually 60-70 cms at the shoulder and weight between 15-20 kilos. Neither sex has a visible tail and in the summer they possess an almost orange coloured coat. The antlers vary in size but are typically 15-25 cms with typically 3 tines a side.
Glenborrodale Castle – Premier Sports Trophy Reserve Sika and fallow deer are two of the main species that flourish in the Glenborrodale Castle’s premier sports trophy reserve along with our magnificent trophy red deer. We are proud of the fact we offer red stags of SCI record book quality. Most of our clients are seeking good representative quality stags which are typically 12-16 points. The Sika and Fallow are also of excellent quality and often with the Fallow; the colouration of the animal can also be part of the client’s selection.
Within the reserve, it is our intention in 2009 to introduce feral rams and feral Scottish goats, providing a wide selection and a unique opportunity for the visiting hunter. Due to the geographical location of Glenborradale Castle in its tranquil and secluded setting, hunting conditions and accommodation remain comfortable throughout the season which runs from the end of August until March for deer and throughout the year for goats and rams.
Throughout the Estate all game species are managed in such a way as to maintain and enhance our biodiversity in accordance with best practise and with their welfare and your experience as paramount.
Taxidermy and PhotographicAt the end of the hunt, your trophy will be prepared following your preferences. Trophy fees include field preparation and preservation. It does not include taxidermy, export charges and shipping to final destination but this can be arranged for you at a preferential rate through Manfred Kröker, Taxidermist who will also arrange the shipping of the trophy to your home.
We also offer a photographic and video record of your visit and your tours through our own professional cameraman Justin Dammarell who can discreetly accompany you on your adventure, leaving you with lasting memories.
If you have any special requirements, please feel free to contact us.
Your Personal HuntFor many of our visitors, this may be their first trip to Scotland and possibly to Europe. To enable us to make this as unique and smooth for you, please provide us with a list of your requirements, trophies you seek and your accommodations needs and the team will be more than happy to meet these needs with that personal touch.
(We look forward to discussing your needs with you)
Un-guided HuntsFor some of our more experienced hunters
the thrill of guiding themselves in a clearly defined
area after a proper briefing is a challenge they relish
we offer this to individual who have the necessary
hunting qualification from their home country and meet our own shooting
and species identification test. This type of hunting normally takes
place in a woodland setting and also allows the hunters to make use of
a selection of high seats. You will be supervised by one of our resident
stalkers who will assist with carcass recovery and preparation
This is available from mid November until early February
as pricing varies please contact us for more information.
