Writer Izaak Walton, the 17th century of the classic “The Compleat Angler” is reputed to have said “Angling may be said to be so like the Mathematics that it can never be fully learned; at least not so fully but that there will still be more new experiments left for the trial of other men that succeed us.”
This suggests that both fishing (angling) and maths are infinitely complex and endlessly fascinating pursuits, always offering new discoveries for any adherent in the future – hence the endless and life-long fascination.
The same can be said for deerstalking as much because of the wild instincts and intelligence of deer and understanding them plus any intricacies and on-going development of new technology of rifles and gear.
As regards technology the author adeptly includes chapters on new gear such as infra-red equipment.
In his previous book “Tracking and Finding Deer in New Zealand”, Roger Lentle delved deeply into hunting and finding deer. In this his latest “Advanced Techniques for New Zealand Deerstalkers” he adeptly complements the previous subject by imparting skills in accurate shooting, assessing deer in terms of condition and trophy potential, post mortem of deer shot, use of a dog and the canine’s incredible sense of smell to find the quarry and/or to locate a shot deer and assessing the numbers of deer relative to the carrying capacity of habitat. The chapter “Deer and Ecological Management” makes much common, practical sense in view of the current panicked phobia about “feral deer.”
The Thinking Hunter
As the title implies, it’s an ideal book especially for the serious and thinking deerstalker. Not that the beginner should shie away, for the book’s sage advice will add immeasurably to any hunter’s knowledge and therefore skill. Buy it and keep it handy in your bookcase for future reference!
Roger Lentle knows his stuff when it comes to deer and hunting. He has spent over 50 years hunting deer, observing them often at close quarters and quietly amassing a wealth of knowledge. Enhancing this is his background as a medical scientist for 20 years and another 20 years in university research focusing on the bio-mechanics of digestion eventually becoming a Professor Emeritus at Massey University.
On the way over the years, Roger Lentle was the author of six top selling hunting books among them “Red Deer in New Zealand” and “Alpine Hunting in New Zealand”.
Highly recommended for any hunter from the experienced thinking deerstalker who knows “you never stop learning” to the beginner or mid-experienced eager to learn more.
Footnote: This book is due for release and will be on sale from February 2