Is hunting with an English Setter more enjoyable or productive?

Hunting with an English Setter can be both enjoyable and productive, but in the context of grouse and woodcock, it leans more towards enjoyable, mainly due to their exceptional ability to locate birds effectively and their pleasing hunting style.

Staunchness and Focus

English Setters are bred for their staunchness, a quality that ensures they stay on the scent and remain focused throughout the hunt. This characteristic allows them to track game over long distances, often in dense cover, and maintain their energy levels throughout the day. A well-trained English Setter can cover 10-15 miles in a single day, making them an ideal companion for upland bird hunting.

Range and Endurance

English Setters are built for endurance, with a strong constitution that allows them to keep up with the demands of upland bird hunting. Their relatively small size belies their impressive range, as they can cover significant ground in pursuit of game. When hunting grouse and woodcock, English Setters can cover areas of 5-10 acres per hour, making them highly effective at locating birds.

Hunting Style and Pleasure

The English Setter’s hunting style is a joy to behold. Their energetic and enthusiastic approach to the hunt creates an electric atmosphere, as they work tirelessly to locate and indicate the presence of game. When an English Setter indicates a bird, it’s often with a loud, piercing “find” or “set,” which signals to the hunter that a bird is in the area. This unique hunting style makes the experience both enjoyable and productive, as hunters can anticipate and prepare for a shot.