Why do people hunt trophy stags in Scotland? Professional deer manager Niall Rowantree explains that it’s not about ego — it’s about ecology. Hunters from around the world join Niall to stalk mature, non-breeding stags as part of sustainable deer management. They may want to keep the antlers as a memento of the experience, but it’s a world away from the popular misconceptions about trophy hunting.
The film follows Niall Rowantree, a professional deer manager with West Highland Hunting, as he welcomes guests from Germany and Austria to the hills of Sutherland.
The group experiences a traditional red-deer stalk while learning how careful, selective management supports healthy deer populations and protects fragile Highland habitats.
“It may be the end of September but it’s fresh at over 3,000 feet,” says Niall, as he and his team, including young assistant Connor, begin their climb. What follows is a detailed look at the discipline, patience and respect that underpin responsible stalking.
The guests, hosted in partnership with HIKMicro, experience first-hand how modern digital technology supports traditional fieldcraft.
“In a few months, these antlers will be hanging on our German friend’s wall,” says Niall. “Not to glorify killing something, but to remind him about that day he immersed himself in the stunning Scottish scenery.”
Beyond the personal challenge, the film highlights how managed stalking benefits both the environment and the local economy.
“Environmentally, these trophy hunters have improved the health of the herd, helping reduce grazing impacts to a sustainable level,” explains Niall.
“Economically, they have brought money into the rural economy, paying for their accommodation, food, outings and, yes, the antlers. And the game dealer will buy the wild meat for human consumption.”
As the day ends, guests test the HIKMicro Stella thermal scope, showing how traditional practices continue to evolve with technology.
Reflecting on the experience, Niall offers a final thought on the meaning of a “trophy”: “Humans are like jackdaws. We like to collect. It could be a shell, a pine cone, or cast antler. It’s not about ‘the thing’, it’s a cue to remember ‘the whole’.”
The film invites viewers to look beyond assumptions and consider the wider role that ethical deer management plays in sustaining Scotland’s landscapes, communities, and wildlife.
More about Niall and the kit he uses here FieldsportsChannel.tv/niallrowantree
To watch all of Fieldsports Britain, episode 832, visit FieldsportsChannel.tv/fieldsportsbritain832