May 2017 Sporting Update from Nick
As the last of the migratory birds returned to the uplands at the end of April they were greeted by snow and hail which blanketed the moors in a white shroud for a couple of days. The low temperatures were short lived and the forecast for the week ahead is a good one with rising temperatures and light winds.
Overall the winter weather has been mild with very little snow and record low levels of rainfall. Last month moorland managers reported favourable grouse counts with some well up on last year. At the moment the vital signs are encouraging; the next 2 months will be crucial and lack of rain will be the next hurdle to overcome as moors are becoming tinder dry; lack of moisture will impact on insect hatch and increase the risk of moorland fires but light rain is forecast this week.
The market for grouse shooting has been particularly buoyant this year with bookings coming in earlier than we have seen before. However for clients whose diaries preclude them from making commitments so far in advance we are usually able to arrange sport at short notice and we would love to hear from you. In anticipation of another big year, moor owners are increasing their letting programmes and we have very recently received instructions to let more late season days.
. Despite snow and hail on 24/25 April weather has been favourable in the Uplands
. Good forecast for week ahead for the start of the grouse hatch, although rain is needed.
. Opportunities for grouse days despite very buoyant letting market.
. Spanish partridge dates have just been released at La Cuesta for 2017/18 season.
Something completely different for keen stalkers. We have just been asked by a very old client of ours to let a weeks stalking on his 17,000 Hectare estate in Poland. The property, which has been run by our client for the last 30 years, lies between Gdansk and Szczecin and from the average annual total of 75 stags, typically a third of these will be medal heads. Private stalking lodge and highly experienced stalkers. One week available due to cancellation by guests Arrive Sunday 24 th September 2017 – Depart Sunday 1st October. Contact us for details.
