Game Hunting Ireland: Interview with a Premier Irish Outfitter
In this interview, I talk with Kevin Lynch from Game Hunting Ireland, who offers insights into the country’s diverse hunting landscape. He discusses the unique game species, personalized hunting experiences, and the emphasis on conservation and client-centered service. Lynch also highlights the bespoke accommodations and Game Hunting Ireland’s commitment to ensuring a memorable, family-like hunting adventure.
Hunting in the Emerald Isle
Jeremy:
What can you tell me about Game Hunting Ireland, Kevin?
Kevin:
I’ve been hunting since I could walk, following my father’s footsteps. Now, 20 years into outfitting and guiding, it’s more a passion than work for me.
Jeremy:
What game species are you specialized in?
Kevin:
We offer hunts for Red Stag, Sika stag, Fallow buck, and the unique wild Irish goat, highly sought after by those aware of it.
Jeremy:
Is that the animal some refer to as the Emerald Ibex?
Kevin:
Yes, though I’m not a biologist to confirm that precisely.
Jeremy:
Which species is most popular?
Kevin:
Red Stag is very popular, but Sika deer gains interest once clients learn about them. Personally, I’m fond of hunting Fallow bucks, an exhilarating and unique experience.
Planning an Ireland Hunt
Jeremy:
What hunting methods do you use? Rifle, bow, blinds?
Kevin:
We exclusively use rifles ranging from .308 to 7mm Mag, depending on client preference. We provide a range of firearms as I’m a registered firearms dealer. Our hunting methods include spot and stalk, blinds, and high seats (tree stands in America). We adapt to our clients’ needs and physical capabilities, ensuring a quality, enjoyable hunting experience without overexertion.
Jeremy:
What accommodations do you offer?
Kevin:
We offer various options: castles for an upscale experience, a beautifully refurbished lodge from 1884, and five-star hotels for larger groups. All our hunts are within a 40-minute radius from these accommodations, and we ensure no time is wasted on long drives. We manage over 8,000 hectares of land for diverse hunting, including pheasant, partridge, duck, woodcock, snipe, and bolt and rabbit over ferrets.
Jeremy:
Tell us about your most popular hunting package.
Kevin:
The Red Stag and Sika stag combo is quite popular. Additionally, we process the hunter’s venison and vacuum pack the meat for them to take back to the US or other countries that allow it. We offer a comprehensive wild slam for big game hunters and cater to various preferences, balancing profitability with client satisfaction. Our business is year-round, and ensuring client happiness is paramount.
Jeremy:
What is your success rate for big game?
Kevin:
During the rut, starting around September 27th through October, our success rate is nearly 100%. Outside the rut, we provide an extra day of hunting, with a 70-75% success rate.
Jeremy:
Any special requirements for hunters?
Kevin:
We handle most of the paperwork and are mindful of the need to protect our clients and ourselves. The paperwork, though a bit cumbersome, is vital for both parties.
Jeremy:
Do you customize the experience based on the hunter’s skill or physical condition?
Kevin:
Absolutely, we tailor the hunt to each client’s abilities and conditions. Whether they’re super fit or need more assistance, we’re adaptable, ensuring a memorable experience over merely securing a kill.
Jeremy:
Do you assist with trophy preparation?
Kevin:
Yes, we handle caping and ensure the trophies reach the taxidermist in good condition. The client then coordinates with the taxidermist for final arrangements.
Jeremy:
Can you speak about your conservation and environmental practices?
Kevin:
As hunters in Ireland, we’re a minority and are proactive in animal population control and health improvement. We work cooperatively with conservation efforts, understanding our marginalized position.
Jeremy:
Can clients add day trips or excursions?
Kevin:
We offer a wide range of tours, with knowledgeable drivers and guides. Whether clients have specific destinations in mind or are open to suggestions, we ensure a fulfilling touring experience.
Jeremy:
Why should clients choose to hunt in Ireland with you?
Kevin:
We offer a family-like, all-encompassing service, meeting clients at the airport and handling every aspect personally. Our business is hunting, not outsourcing. Clients become part of our family, treated with utmost respect and attention.
Jeremy:
How can people contact you?
Kevin:
We hope to connect with clients at hunting shows like Dallas and Atlanta. While we have an internet presence, we believe in the value of personal, face-to-face interactions for building relationships and trust.
Visit Game Hunting Ireland, or you can call and email:
+353 (87) 363 0130
Jeremy Mallette is co-founder of International Sportsman. An avid hunter and outdoorsman, he has spent more than a decade in the outdoor industry, from hiking and camping to silencers and hunting. His father taught him to shoot at age six, and he received his first firearm at age eight — a 1942 Colt Commando .38 special revolver. He enjoys yearly trips to Kansas for pheasant hunting, spending time with his children at the deer lease, and collecting unique firearms.