How Keen Was My Valley Eye

Can a simulated day be a game-changer and improve your shooting when it comes to the real thing? The editor puts theory into practice

There I was, scanning the heavens for a pheasant, my ageing Miroku in hand. The skies were an ethereal blue, which seemed all the deeper from the shadow of the hills that glowered down upon the row of Guns lined out at the bottom of the valley. The scenery was so beautiful it made me feel insignificant.

A few shots further down the valley announced the birds were on their way and I waited in expectation. I saw one flying across the line of Guns. My heart pounded as I got ready to take a shot. Then I saw it fall to the Gun to my left. I stood down and waited patiently for my next opportunity.

Sure enough another bird came up the line, defying the Guns as it went. This time I was a bit more relaxed because if it survived I would be the last to have a ‘pop’ at it and there is no shame in missing a bird everyone else has missed. Of course, no one is really watching or keeping score, but that psychological edge always gives me a boost.

Bargain shoot

• From £200 for100 birds, Mark’s shoot is probably one of the best value for money in the UK. Due to COVID-19 the shoot is not running this season, but it should be back next season. The shoot is just a short drive from the Wynnstay at Machynlleth and if you are staying there, Charles, the owner, will help you find an alternative shoot this season. We will update you on Mark’s shoot next year.I mounted my gun, swung it through the target and pulled the trigger. To my surprise, the pheasant fell like a stone at the foot of the fence in front of me. I say surprise because it’s so rare for me to get a bird with the first shot. To be honest, if I had to go home after that shot, I would have been more than chuffed.

Warm up