Frequently Asked Questions
|
What does a fox hunt look like?
Members and Guests arrive at the fixture (the location of the days hunt) 30-60 minutes before the hunt starts to tack up and warm up. The Masters and Huntsman will do any announcements about the day, the hounds and the conditions of the land. The Huntsman will blow the horn to send the hounds out, the whipper ins and Huntsman will follow. Followed by the First Field Master and the members and guests joining the First Field followed by the Second Field Master and members and guests riding in the Second Field. There are also the Hilltoppers who often get the best viewing of any field! While they miss the gallop - they stay in one place and watch. The Long Lake Hounds is a drag hunt. This means that we do not pursue a live fox. Instead, the morning of each hunt, our Fox, which is a member of the Hunt, hacks through fields dragging the scent for the hounds to follow. In the early season 3-4 lines will be laid, which are 1-2 miles in length. Then the Fox circles the scent in an open field after each line where the horses and hounds can catch their breath, this is called a Check. Later in the season as the weather cools and the hounds and horses are in the best shape, there maybe up to 6 lines ranging from 1-3 miles each. After the hunt is over, treats and water will be given to the hounds. Hunt Breakfasts will follow either by a members horse trailer or by the hosting landowner. What other options are there besides fox hunting in the field?
The Long Lake Hounds offers other options to be involved with fox hunting besides riding in a fox hunt. Walk Hounds: Almost daily, the Huntsman will walk the hounds at the Kennels, either on foot or on horseback. Guests are always welcome to join to get your horse accustom to the Hounds and just to see the pack get their exercise. Contact the Huntsman, Jon Martison ([email protected]) for days and times. Car Follower: Guests are always welcome to watch the Hunts. Generally there will be a member who will guide guests around the land for the best viewing spots of the hunt. Become a Social Member: Social members are invited to the Hunt Breakfasts, Activities, and Events of the Long Lake Hounds which includes the end of the season celebration, the Hunt Ball. What are the Guidelines for the Hunter's Pace?
Click here to view the Guidelines to participate in a Hunter's Pace. |
How can I go fox hunting?
Long Lake Hounds hunts every Wednesday and Saturday morning June-October. Pick a day that works for you and contact one of the Joint Masters to find out what time and the location of the hunts that works for you. Nancy Bizzano (612) 859-1160 [email protected] Jon Martinson (763) 242-9477 [email protected] How do I know which field to ride with?
We recommend those new to the sport begin riding with the Second Field, which moves at a moderate pace of predominantly trotting. There is also a hill-top field which proceeds at a quieter pace, missing action accordingly, but suitable for the uninitiated rider or horse. After several hunts, you may be invited to ride with the First Field. Our Huntsman desires the First Field to stay close to the action and be up with the hounds, galloping and jumping as necessary. What do I wear?
Function over fashion. In no way will Long Lake Hounds ever not allow someone from hunting because they aren’t dressed correctly. Function first, fashion later. However; a properly turned-out field honors the landowners, shows them we take our sport seriously, and displays the appropriate respect as they watch us ride by. Summer Season Dress is casual. Polo shirts with collars, any color except red, that is reserved for the Staff. Helmet is always required. Formal Season Adults and Juniors who are guests or newly joined members are asked to wear a plain black coat, but function first, fashion later. If you don't have a coat you are encouraged to wear a dark color on top. How do I become a Long Lake Hounds Member?
Becoming a member supports the Hounds and ensures the future of fox hunting in Minnesota. To find out more about the different levels of membership click here or fill out the membership form and send your form and payment to the following address: Make checks payable to: LLH Mail to: Long Lake Hounds Treasurer, 2872 Willow Dr. Hamel, MN 55340 Have more questions?
Contact us at [email protected] or you can contact one of the Join Masters: Nancy Bizzano Jt. MFH (612) 859-1160 [email protected] Jon Martinson Jt. MFH (763) 242-9477 [email protected] |