Chinese Water Deer hunting
View 11 hunts View all hunts11 hunting trips from 5 outfitters starting from $383
Where to hunt Chinese Water Deer
The Chinese water deer, known for its small size, reddish-brown coat, and distinctive tusks, is a fascinating species that offers a unique hunting opportunity. Originally native to China and Korea, this unusual deer has established strong populations in the wetlands and agricultural landscapes of Great Britain, where it thrives. In fact, England is currently the only place in the world where you can enjoy a legal hunt after a free-ranging Chinese water deer. Within England, Bedfordshire, Norfolk, and Cambridgeshire, is the premier destination for hunting CWD, as the species is known among local hunters. These areas offer ideal habitats of marshlands, riverbanks, and open fields where the deer can flourish. With no antlers to evaluate, Chinese water deer hunts focus on the quality of their tusks, making them an intriguing and distinctive addition to any hunter’s trophy collection.
Price distribution
Hunting Chinese water deer in Great Britain is more affordable than you would think. Day rates for guided hunts typically range from £250 to £500, and additional trophy fees may be charged depending on the size and quality of the tusks. Trophy fees often start at £300 and can exceed £1,000 for exceptional specimens. Additional fees may be charged for things like gun rental and insurance, and packages that include meals and room will be naturally priced higher. A great value for a beginner are so-called “first time stalker” packages, which include a theoretical lesson on deer and deer stalking and a shooting session, but are of course priced above the regular outing.
Welcome to the United Kingdom!
Great Britain now offers the best, if not the only, opportunity to legally harvest a Chinese water deer. But the deer hunting - or, to use the local lingo, 'deer stalking' - on the old merry island doesn't end there. In fact, with six species of deer and unexpectedly affordable prices, England and Scotland may be among the world's best destinations for a deer hunter. Read our blog to learn more!
11 Aug 2023 Deer Stalking in Great Britain: What You Need to KnowWhen to hunt Chinese Water Deer?
The hunting season for Chinese water deer in England runs from November 1 to March 31. What time within the season is better is open for debate. Some argue that the start of the season is better, as the deer’s coat thickens and their tusks are fully developed, making it the prime period for harvesting quality trophies. Cooler weather and shorter vegetation in the winter months also improve visibility and stalking conditions. On the other hand, in February and March the partridge and pheasant shooting season is closed, which means less disturbance for deer and more territories available, as gamekeepers are less concerned about deer stalkers harassing their birds. Longer days also mean the diurnal creature would be more likely to feed in the legal shooting light.
Hunting methods All hunting methods (4)
Hunting Chinese water deer is typically conducted through spot-and-stalk or still hunting, as these deer are most active in open fields, wetlands, and along hedgerows. Hunters use binoculars to scan the landscape for the small and often well-camouflaged animals, followed by a careful approach to get within range. A bit of crawling on the belly might be necessary! Due to their skittish nature and excellent eyesight, Chinese water deer hunting takes patience and precision. Shots are often taken at moderate distances, but a Chinese Water Deer is a small target, so good shooting skills are required. Most British guides use rifles equipped with sound moderators, to avoid disturbing the residents in densely populated rural areas; if you’ve never shot such a rifle, it’s best to arrange a short shooting session before the hunt, to get familiar with it.
Why hunt Chinese Water Deer?
The Chinese water deer offers a hunting experience unlike any other. Its tusks make it one of the most distinctive species in the deer family, and a trophy that stands out in any collection. Beyond the trophy, hunting this unique deer is an opportunity to explore the picturesque English countryside, with its rolling fields, quiet woodlands, and historic estates. The species’ abundance in Britain makes it a sustainable and rewarding quarry, while its small size and intriguing appearance appeal to seasoned trophy hunters and newcomers alike. Pairing a Chinese water deer hunt with other species like muntjac adds variety and excitement to any hunting trip. A Chinese water deer is often the first quarry of a beginning British big-game hunter. In fact, it’s a common quarry in “first time stalker” packages, which are a great way to get initiated into the ancient pursuit of humankind. Whether you’re a resident interested in hunting, or a tourist that wants to explore all the United Kingdom has to offer, Chinese water deer stalking should be on your list. Don’t miss your chance to experience this extraordinary hunt—start planning your Chinese water deer adventure in Great Britain today!
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