JOINING THE CLUB
MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY
Capreolus Club welcomes those who share a commitment to sustainable deer management, conservation and the finest traditions of British deer stalking.
As the UK’s Premier Private Deer Stalking Club, membership is designed for those who value professionally managed stalking opportunities, responsible wildlife management and the companionship of like-minded sportsmen and women. Whether taking your first steps into deer stalking or building upon years of experience, the Club provides a trusted environment in which members can develop their knowledge, skills and experience.
Effective deer management plays a vital role in protecting Britain's woodlands, farmland and biodiversity. In the absence of natural predators, deer populations require careful and sustainable management to maintain healthy ecosystems. It is estimated that deer contribute significantly to woodland decline, affecting species such as the Nightingale, Willow Warbler and Blackcap, whilst also causing millions of pounds of damage to forestry and agriculture each year. Responsible deer management is therefore widely recognised as an essential part of modern conservation.
The Capreolus Club is committed to sustainable deer management and to promoting the responsible consumption of wild venison. Wild venison is one of the healthiest and most sustainable sources of red meat available, providing a natural, free-ranging food source while supporting the careful management of Britain's deer populations. Every animal taken by the Club enters the food chain, ensuring that sustainability and conservation remain central to everything we do.
Professional standards are fundamental to the Club. Applicants without significant demonstrable deer stalking experience are expected to hold either the Proficient Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1 (PDS1) or Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1 (DSC1) prior to joining.
For those wishing to begin their deer stalking journey, we recommend completion of the Proficient Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1 (PDS1) delivered by the Shooting & Hunting Academy. The Academy is a UK Registered Learning Provider and an approved LANTRA and UK Rural Skills Training Provider, delivering nationally recognised qualifications for those involved in deer management. Find out more about the Proficient Deer Stalking Course (PDS1)
For those wishing to further develop their knowledge and professional competence, the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 (DMC3) represents one of the UK's highest vocational qualifications in deer management and is also delivered by the Shooting & Hunting Academy.
