My next day's shooting is coming up this Thursday. A driven day on the Derbyshire/Staffordshire border, with an expected bag of around 150 pheasant.
I'm really looking forward to it. I believe the anticipation of a shooting day to be very much part of the whole experience. I find myself in the odd moment during the days running up to it thinking about what the day may hold in store. I plan what kit I need to get ready in preparation. I plan the logistics, all the while mentally licking my lips with the anticipation of a good day. I worry about the standard of my shooting, but then imagine pulling down many impressive birds.
For this coming day the anticipation is enhanced because it is an annual family day, organised by my 88 year old father, still shooting well. Alongside him will be my sister, my best friend who is like a brother to me, my brother in law, two of my longest serving shooting friends, who are brothers and one old family friend. We will have much fun pulling each others legs. We will also be very well looked after by our hosts, who we know well as we have been shooting on their estate for several years now. We can anticipate the pleasure of a scrumptious lunch and a delicious tea to punctuate the day.
It is this anticipation which I find to be important. It is one of the things that those few people who shoot four or five days a week throughout the season miss out on, so I don't end up envying them at all.
I'll let you know how we get on!
Tim
