Everyone knows that stalking isn’t the best place for a chat—but that’s part of what makes it so rewarding with good mates. You can read everything they’re thinking without a word being spoken. A glance, a shift in posture, a raised eyebrow—it’s all there in the body language. That silent understanding adds a whole other layer to the experience.
I’ve always preferred stalking with a friend. For me, it’s as much a social experience as it is a sporting one. I do head out solo from time to time, and there are definite advantages—less noise, fewer variables, and a simpler approach overall. But the real value, for me, lies in sharing those moments: the stories, the shots, the laughs, and yes, the drag at the end of the day.
I’m also fortunate that most of the stalking I do is recreational, so I’m not under pressure to hit cull numbers or chase results. That freedom allows me to sit back, relax, and enjoy stalking for what it truly is—a chance to immerse myself in the landscape, observe wildlife, and create lasting memories.
There’s something about building those memories with mates that outweighs the occasional missed opportunity. Whether it’s a textbook stalk or a day full of near misses, having someone alongside makes it all the more worthwhile.
