If there’s one request we get from Young Shots everywhere it’s for help in getting opportunities for shooting, and now that the driven and wildfowling seasons are over, it’s time to get yourself sorted out with some rough sport… Here are some top tips to help you make a good impression with your local farmers and land owners.

Always visit in person to ask permission

The farmer will want to meet you to make sure you are the sort of trustworthy and responsible shooter that he is happy to have on his land. Dress quite smartly and don’t wear your shooting gear especially camouflage, otherwise it looks like you’re assuming he’ll say yes.

Bring your mum or dad along

The farmer or land owner will want to make sure that mum and dad know about your idea to shoot on his or her land, but make sure you do the asking. After all it’s you that wants to go shooting!

Make sure you’re asking the right person!

Only the owner or occupier of the land can give you permission to shoot there. Not the farm-hands, under-keeper or estate workers.

Show your BASC membership card

Joining the BASC Young Shots shows you take your shooting seriously, and BASC insurance means that you are covered in case any accidents happen while you are out in the field.

Check which species it is OK to shoot

You may only get permission to shoot pigeons or rabbits, or if you’re lucky you might get a free reign on all quarry species. But always check first! And make sure you know the seasons for different species. Click here to refresh your memory.

Offer to help by looking out for broken fences, injured animals etc.

You can be a useful extra pair of eyes and ears out and about on the land, and the farmer or land owner will appreciate this.

Have some references handy

If you already shoot elsewhere, whether on other land or at a clay shooting or field target club, have the names and details of people who can vouch for your shooting ability and your attitude to gun safety.

Don’t be disappointed if they say “no”

However nicely you ask, it’s understandable why they might not want someone they don’t know walking about on their land carrying a gun. But follow the advice above and you’ll make a good impression for yourself and your sport. And anyway, there’s always the next farm, and the next, and the next…