hunting - a few questions

[CUnexttuseday]

ive always wanted to go out hunting but have never been able, either no horse or no transport. now i have both but have no idea how to get into the hunting 'scene'
any advice welcome

[Alameda]

experts along soon I hope but in meantime find your local hunt or hunts and give them a call

there are several overlapping where I live, they were all helpful, encouraging but one was exceptionally welcoming and ummm tolerant

want to go quite badly now

[Nuttyfilly]

Hi there, it's not to difficult, find out who your local hunt are, and ring the secratary, I will warn you it's not cheap at all for a days hunting! I have mostly gave up now because paying 200 quid for a jolly round seemed a tad much!

[ScabbyColdCrustyCatPuss]

Our local bloodhounds take your details, and then send you the details a day or so before hand, to try and avoid trouble with Antis. They are really friendly.

[Callisto]

Same here Nuttyfilly - DD is desperate to go hunting but I just can't justify that kind of money for a couple of hours pleasure.

[Moanranger]

Ask anyone you know about hunts they would recommend. Certain ones are a bit more user friendly for the newbie. I find the local Bloodhounds better than the County hunt, which tends to be rather anarchic, and I know that is the case in other counties too. Cap is £50; some hunts give you the first hunt free. If you have own horse and transport anyway, the cap is the only extra. It is fun!

[Butkin]

Cap only about 50 quid round here and children much cheaper.

We've just run 'beginners' day where newcomers were particularly looked after.

If you've a DD then ask your local hunt secretary for details of the Childrens meet which is a good place to start. On that day experienced hunters will be put with each of the children and everything explained to them. They will ensure they see everything and have a good day.

Also check with your secretary about where to park the box, where would be a good place to pick them up - if not wanting to stay out all day - etc.

Make sure they are neatly but warmly turned out. Ask here if you're unsure of correct gear/clothing.

[badgeroncaffeine]

I've always wanted to give it a try as well...what amount of riding experience is needed?

[Alameda]

I think experience in the art of controlling your horse is good otherwise must depend on the land? We have a lot of (yikes) ditches and plough here (same for you butkin?) but other areas vary considerably. Look at Ireland!

I think it's the most natural thing in the world for you and your horse, it's one of life's little cruelties that hunting blows my horse's brains. But it has to be tried!

Here is £40 for cubbing and a little more when it starts properly.

[Alameda]

I say 'cubbing' but I just mean a morning thing.

[badgeroncaffeine]

I agree alameda I never seem to get around to it, but it must be a great experience. I'm a bit mindful of the cost, but £200 a day doesn't seem too bad! Have you hunted before?

[Alameda]

I've never hunted for £200 a DAY, that is more like half sub for a season? I think it was more like £50 for a full day, they don't seem to do second horses here which must take more organising but don't know if it costs more. I like the local harriers, cheaper and can wear tweed all season.

I have some very limited but indimenticabile hunting experience!

[badgeroncaffeine]

All I've ever done is follow on foot, but very envious of people actually riding! I think it'd be easier if I knew someone else to get started with.

[Alameda]

oh, children free with Suffolk (if PC members) and v cheap with others

I wonder what you get for £200 and where?

[badgeroncaffeine]

It probably depends on the area, £50 sounds better though!

[Mirage]

PC members pay £20 a day with our hunt,and they are normally 2 horse days.I don't know what full subscribers pay,because we go free anyway,but I suspect it is quite steep because they are a very well known hunt and very popular with out of area people.We had 40 ladies riding side saddle on Friday and one had come over from Belgium.

DD2 went on Wednesday and had a fabulous time.She was the only one on lead rein and we kept up for 3 hours.Dpony is the best hunting pony ever and I intend to take her when the DDs have moved onwards and upwards.

[Butkin]

Alameda - yes Suffolk is mostly just ditches - hardly ever a jump. Thurlow pretty much the same but lots of hunt jumps. Different packs suit different horses depending on terrain etc.

I'd suggest following for a day or two before going mounted. That way you/your children can see how everything goes, meet the secretary at the meet etc.

Will also show you what everybody wears etc..

[Nuttyfilly]

Mirage that was a lovely sight with all the lady's side saddle! Wouldn't dare do it myself lol! The bloodhounds are very friendly! Some people in the hunting scenes can be very rude and un welcoming though, in the long run though it is fun! And if there are fences u don't fancy jumping there is always someone looking for a gate

[Landy77]

I think its £50 round me. But the local hunt (essex) do hunt rides and starter days which would be a great introduction far cheaper. I used to show my mare side saddle and would love to take her for a day side saddle, just waiting for her to grow up enough (she is 20years old)!! so I have a chance of surviving!!!!!!!!

[catinwitchyboots]

Side saddle hunting

You've just given me palpitations

I felt close to death doing an x-pole sidesaddle. I and I'm not a novice

[Mirage]

If you'd like to see photos of all of them lined up,plus some hair raising pictures of them jumping,google 'Nico Morgan photographer Quorn hunt opening meet 2012'.He takes some amazing photos but I can't link as there are 100's.

I'd faint with happiness if my dds ever hunt side saddle.

[Nuttyfilly]

Girls riding side saddle is just adorable to watch on there ponies! Nico takes some fab pictures!
Also for pics google rose Rodgers photo box

[Nuttyfilly]

((www.photoboxgallery.com/roserodgersphotography/collection?album_id=1522483746))

[Nuttyfilly]

Oh ok didn't post that link right, oops!

[ScabbyColdCrustyCatPuss]

here

[Mirage]

Rose takes some fabulous pictures.They are amazing.