Hunting – How To Take The First Steps

Lots of people think they might like to go hunting, but are unsure how to go about it. Abi Butcher explains what to do this summer to get yourself ready for the winter

- Abi Butcher

HAVE you always wanted to go hunting but not been sure how to go about it, whether your horse would take to it and whether you would enjoy it? If you fancy taking the leap next season, there’s plenty you can do over the summer to prepare and work towards a day out with hounds.

Where to start? The summer is an easy time to make contact with your local pack and ease yourself in to the scene with social, fun (and sometimes pub) rides where you can meet new people and get your horse used to riding in a group without the pressures that a full hunting day brings.

You can find out which hunt is closest to you by contacting the Countryside Alliance or the Hunting Office (01285 653001) – or have a look on social media. Most packs are fairly active these days on Facebook and Instagram and welcome new followers.

“Make contact with your local hunt through the secretary, who will be able to answer all your questions, fill you in on planned events, help with key details such as where to park and perhaps link you up with more experienced people who can help you on the day,” says the Alliance’s Polly Portwin.

“Hunt rides are a perfect way to meet people, they’re much lower key and don’t have the hustle and bustle of a big day’s hunting. There’s no dress code and it is far less intimidating – you’ll realise that hunting folk are no different to anyone else.”

FITNESS ISN’T CRUCIAL

DON’T worry about getting your horse fighting fit for these rides or even for autumn hunting which starts in September. Far better for your horse to get slightly tired than be fresh and out of its skin for the 90-minute or two-hour duration of a ride.