Cost per stag for stalking?

In 2003 the last time I went Red Deer Stalking in Scotland it was about 290 Pounds per Stag. I am trying to book a trip for this year and I am getting a number of 600 pounds per stag, On top of that they are asking another 35 pounds per stag for antler prep and 20 pounds a day to use an estate rifle. Then a tip for the stalker.

Does this sound about right? In 2003 I did tip but I did not pay for the rifle or the prep

Any information would be greatly appreciated

Brad,

Prices have gone up a fair bit since 2003 but for management red stags on the hill, I'd say £450 + VAT @ 20% is about the average this year in Scotland, so £600 is not too bad. Usually use of an estate rifle is included in th fee, as is caping or skull pre', but don't forget that a decent tip of £50-80 is usually expected to be paid to the stalker for getting you onto your beast and then doing this additional work, on top of the fee paid to the estate.

The rise in charges are mostly due to rising fuel costs and VAT rises - it costs a hell of a lot more now to have a keeper and beat keepers housed and running around in thirsty landrovers, quads or Argocats.

It is possible to bypass outfitters and estates in Scotland to find cheaper stags (through private arrangements with leaseholders or through schemes like BASC runs on Arran), but you'll get uncertain results, even if you are a skilled and experienced stalker. With estate stalking, you're paying for access to ground that holds a good number of deer and for a skilled stalking guide that knows his ground, so will get you onto those deer for a successful shot within a single day.

R'gds,

Adam.

Adam,

Thanks for the feedback, I really appreciate the information. I got some contact information for a Keeper that may be able to get me in. Otherwise I will just book via the agent and pay the higher price.

Scotland used to be a bargain, I should have gone more back then!!!

£400-£450 plus £30 for cleaning/bleaching the head is now the norm on most traditional sporting estates.