Walked-up grouse
A dogman's take on walked-up grouse shooting
Grouse shooting
The grouse shooting season opens on August 12 and closes December 10. Grouse is a challenge for shooters because the birds fly fast, making them particularly testing.
In addition the habitat of grouse makes them hard to spot – they are mostly found in heather moorland.
The sport is regularly under fire by those that oppose it, from attempts to licence grouse moors to accusations of illegally killing birds of prey. However, a GWCT study estimated that shooting grouse could support over 1,000 jobs and contribute £23.3million to Scottish GDP.
The knowledge of the keepers, owners, moor managers and experts that work tirelessly on the conservation of moorland, the husbandry and management of grouse is essential.
Practising clays from the grouse butt
Preparing for shooting grouse
It is important that you put the work in before you head to the moor. Find an experienced gameshooting instructor who shoots grouse who will be able to put you through your paces. Many clay grounds have special grouse butts where you can practise your technique and hone your skills.
Walked-up grouse
Walked-up grouse, whether over pointers or spaniels working in front, is memorable. You will need to be fit, as you’ll be walking over rough terrain and hills.
A grouse butt
Driven grouse
Here the Guns shoot from special grouse butts. When the drive is coming to an end you will hear constant loud horn blasts from the keepers in the beating line.
For those lucky enough to be heading to the grouse moors, shoot straight, have fun and above all, be safe.
Grouse recipes | Tips for shooting grouse | Walked-up grouse | What to wear shooting
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Protecting grouse moors
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