Useful info

What should I wear to a shoot at Branches Park? Wear clothing appropriate for the weather, typically tweed or similar attire for traditional shoots. Don't forget sturdy boots for navigating the terrain. What can I expect from a shoot at Branches Park? Expect a well-organized and enjoyable shooting experience amidst beautiful scenery. Typically, there are four drives, but occasionally, there may be additional small walked up drives into one drive or a fifth drive if weather conditions demand it. How many walked up and mini-driven drives are there? The number of walked up and mini-driven drives can vary depending on the specific shoot. Typically, there are a mix of both to cater to different preferences and skill levels. You can expect 4 drives minimum

What safety measures are in place during shoots at Branches Park? Safety is paramount at Branches Park. KuduRiver Gundogs and the experienced estate team ensure all participants are briefed on safety protocols, including gun handling and field etiquette. Safety marshals are also present throughout the shoot. What etiquette should I observe on shoot day? Always adhere to the instructions of the KuduRiver Gundogs team, shoot captain, estate owner, gamekeeper and shoot staff. Respect fellow guns and their pegs. Maintain proper gun safety at all times and follow the dress code. Tell me about the luxury accommodation at the Pond Barn. The Pond Barn offers luxurious accommodation for guests staying at Branches Park. It features five bedrooms and has been converted from a barn, offering elegant furnishings and modern amenities.

Please note that Branches Park is dog-friendly; however, there are no kennel facilities for guests. We ask that all dogs are house-trained and do not cause damage to the property. However, dogs must have a high level of obedience, a strong recall, and a solid stop whistle. It's important to prevent misbehavior that could disrupt drives, such as chasing hares.

Any damages caused by dogs or guns will be charged in full to the team responsible.

What species of game can I expect to encounter at Branches Park? The primary quarry at Branches Park are pheasant and partridge. Additionally, there may be opportunities for duck early in the day and various other species such as wood pigeon.

Wood pigeons are encouraged as they provide an extremely challenging opportunity. However, shooting of woodcock is prohibited before the 1st of December. After this date, if a clear left and right presents itself, and you have witnesses, it's permissible to take the shot. However, shooting a single woodcock in flight is strictly prohibited as we highly value the presence of these birds.

How do I find the Pond Barn? Not all satellite navigation systems will lead you directly to the Pond Barn. We recommend using the what3words app and inputting the following code: ///sounds.mobile.whistling. This precise location will guide you to the Pond Barn car park with accuracy.

Are there any ammunition restrictions at Branches Park? Yes, there is to be no lead ammunition used. Only steel or non-toxic ammunition with eco wads are permitted. This regulation is in place to protect the environment and wildlife whilst making wild meat acceptable into the food chain.

What about carrying shot game? Each gun is required to be able to carry their own shot game. This ensures that all participants are responsible for handling their harvested game.

KuduRiver Shoot Day Briefing at Branches Park

Welcome everyone to Branches Park for today's shoot. Before we begin, I want to go over some important safety and etiquette guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable day for all.

1. Start and Finish of the Drive & Gun Safety: A single blast from the gamekeepers horn will start and stop the drive, should you hear the horn at any point you must stop immediately. Gun safety is paramount, especially as we have walking guns. Always keep your gun pointed in a safe direction, finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and ensure your gun is unloaded when not in use.

2. Mindful of Dogs: Be mindful of the dogs working in front of you. Avoid shooting in their direction and be aware of their movements at all times.

3. Respect for Beaters and Pickers Up: There will be beaters and pickers up in the line and sometimes behind the line. Be respectful of their positions and avoid shooting low.

4. No Low Shooting: Understand what constitutes a low shot. Quarry should be silhouetted against the sky. No low shooting is allowed, especially as there may be guns at the flushing point of the drive.

5. Woodcock: Woodcock are not to be shot unless there is a witnessed left and right opportunity and it's after December the 1st.

6. Encountering Public: If we encounter any members of the public, you'll be asked to sleeve your shotgun and return to the estate.

7. Documentation and Insurance: Ensure you have your valid UK firearms certificate or hunting license if joining us from outside the UK. Additionally, have valid third-party or public liability insurance with an indemnity minimum of 5 million pounds.

8. Ammunition: Steel or non-toxic cartridges only, no lead shot to be used at all. All wild meat harvested will be sent to the butcher and distributed to the local community.

9. Game Carrying: Ensure you have the means to carry your own game. Shoot staff will assist, but it's essential to be self-sufficient during walking drives.

10. Loading and Safety: Walking guns may load cartridges at the start of the walk but not before. No shotgun should be walked with ammunition in the barrels during the drives. Keep the safety on at all times, only taking it off to shoot at game.

11. Consequences of Rule Breaking: Kuduriver Gundogs do not take rule-breaking lightly. Breaking the rules may affect your stay with us at Branches Park Estate.

12. Equal Opportunities: We'll place you where we see fit to ensure everyone gets an equal amount of shooting throughout the day. If you feel you've been out of shooting, please come and speak to one of us, and we'll rectify the situation.

Thank you for your attention, and let's have a safe and successful day of shooting at Branches Park!

It is highly recommended that all participants who shoot with Kuduriver Gundogs take the time to read and watch the short video of the shoot day briefing. This ensures that everyone is well-informed and understands the safety protocols, etiquette guidelines, and expectations for the day. Watching the video provides a visual reinforcement of the briefing, which can further enhance understanding and retention of the important information provided. Ultimately, it contributes to a safer and more enjoyable shooting experience for all involved.

Thank you for your attention, and let's have a safe and successful day of shooting at Branches Park!