I am interested in doing some red deer stalking and rough shooting on Islay. Does anybody have experience with that? Recommendations? How difficult is it for Americans to take guns to Scotland?

quote:

Originally posted by drongo:
I am interested in doing some red deer stalking and rough shooting on Islay. Does anybody have experience with that? Recommendations? How difficult is it for Americans to take guns to Scotland?

Sorry I can't help with recommendations on stalking - I have been there (and more often to adjacent, wilder Jura) but not stalked there and thought it a great place for a holiday. The eastern part (it is quite a large island) is wilder, the western part more pastoral. The distilleries are a whole subject on their own.

You might want to look at the following operators (I have an abhorrence of agents):-

http://www.lagganproperties.com/stalking/
http://www.callumkill.com/stat...hp/stalking-red-deer
http://www.thegearach.co.uk/deerstalking/index.htm
http://www.dunlossitestate.com/

There is no issue with bringing firearms - but your "sponsor" must first obtain a "Visitors Firearms Permit" for you (you can't do this) - a relatively simple procedure which does take a bit of time though.

Do remember that Islay is actually pretty remote, even though it only appears a short distance from Glasgow. If travelling on your own account in a hire car remember to allow a bit of time on some pretty twisty, but very pretty, minor roads. Then you have a short ferry trip (Kennacraig-Port Ellen) - needs to be booked in advance. If going to Jura you take the ferry from Islay across the narrow sound.

Drongo,

Try Mark Piper on the Gearach. He has plenty of stalking up there. You need to be aware that Scottish stalking is not about shooting big trophies, and more often than not you will not shoot the biggest stag you see.

Also be aware that the stags season ends on the 20th Oct so rough shooting might be a bit sporadic.

Thanks to all for the info. Now for some homework!

Unless a royal stag wandered within 300 meters of the Lagavulin distillery, they would all be safe from me!

If all you care about is the biggest trophy (biggest problem within SCI), then Scotland is not your place. But if you want great scenery, the nicest of people, and really fun hunting, then Scotland is the place.

Plus the Scotch, fly-fishing, and food is awesome. No problem getting stag on the menu at almost any local pub. And the local pubs are the most fun hang-outs anywhere.