For many people, a first introduction to fieldsports comes through family tradition. For others, it begins with a chance opportunity that quickly grows into a lifelong passion. For Vicky, it was joining a local beating line around 15 years ago that sparked a journey which would eventually lead to game shooting, working Labradors, and an enduring love for the countryside community.
In this interview, we discuss how she first became involved in fieldsports, the lessons she has learned along the way, common misconceptions about the sport, and her top tips for creating practical yet elegant country style.
How did you first get into fieldsports?
I first got into fieldsports around 15 years ago when I started attending a lovely syndicate shoot and joined the beating line. That was really where my interest began. I then started shooting on the odd shoot day and doing a bit of clay shooting, and I quickly realised how much I loved it.
One of the things that really drew me in was the sense of community that comes with a shoot day.
Although I didn’t become involved in the shooting world until my late teens, it feels like it has always been part of me. My grandad, who I unfortunately never had the chance to meet, used to shoot with my nan, so I’m grateful to now be continuing that family tradition.
I’ve always been an animal lover, and being on a shoot was also where my ambition to have my own gundogs first began. I remember watching the picking-up dogs and seeing the connection they had with their handlers and thinking, “I’d love that one day.”
Fast forward to today, and I’m lucky enough to have two working Labradors who sit on peg with me and regularly pick up throughout the season. Hopefully, Tessa and I will also be taking part in our very first trial soon, which is something I’m incredibly excited about.
What advice would you give someone looking to get into the sport?
My biggest piece of advice would be simple: go for it.
Find a supportive group or instructor who can guide you, help build your confidence and ensure you enjoy the experience while finding your feet within the sport.
Don’t put pressure on yourself to be an expert straight away. We all start somewhere, and learning is part of the journey. The more you worry about being judged, the less you allow yourself to enjoy the experience.
Everyone I’ve met within fieldsports has been incredibly welcoming; it really can feel like gaining a second family.
Do you have a favourite shooting discipline?
Game shooting is probably my favourite because it gives me the opportunity to work my dogs as well, and it’s always such a great social day out.
There’s something special about being outdoors, spending time with good people and seeing the dogs doing what they love. Watching them work and seeing them do exactly what they were bred for is incredibly rewarding.
I also really value knowing where the food on my plate has come from. There’s something satisfying about sitting down for dinner and appreciating the journey behind it.
That said, I also enjoy clay shooting and love that there are always different areas of the sport to explore. Stalking and wildfowling are both on my list of things I’d love to try in the future.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Two pieces of advice have always stayed with me.
1. Everyone starts somewhere.
Even the very best people have bad days. Often, you learn far more from the mistakes you make than from the days when everything goes perfectly. Challenges and setbacks are what help you grow and improve.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Even the top athletes and professionals have sought guidance from others along the way. Asking for help doesn’t make you weak; if anything, it demonstrates strength. It shows that you’re willing to learn, improve and invest in becoming better.
Have you come across many misconceptions about fieldsports?
In my experience, that hasn’t been the case at all. The people I’ve met have shown genuine respect for both game and the countryside as a whole.
Many shoots ensure that game is used responsibly, whether that’s by guns and beaters taking it home or through game dealers, helping to ensure nothing goes to waste. It’s also encouraging to see more game meat appearing on pub menus and being appreciated as a sustainable food source.
If you haven't already, I'd highly recommend checking out the amazing work of The Country Food Trust. They are a food poverty charity that produces nutritious, protein-rich meals and donates them to food banks and community kitchens across the UK, helping to ensure game and other meat reaches people who can benefit from it most.
I personally value knowing where the meat on my plate has come from and understanding the journey behind it. Conversations around fieldsports are important because they encourage people to look at things from a different perspective and better understand the emphasis many participants place on respect, responsibility and conservation."
What’s your non-negotiable when participating in fieldsports?
Ethics and safety are non-negotiable for me.
I believe in responsible participation, respecting wildlife and the environment, and ensuring that safety always comes before anything else.
You have an eye for curating elegant and effortless looks. Do you have any top styling tips for someone who struggles to put outfits together?
That is very kind, thank you.
I do love an elegant look. I’m very much a girly girl, so even out in the field I’ll always try to add a feminine touch where possible.
Before thinking about style, though, my first tip is always to check the weather. There’s nothing worse than being cold and wet outdoors.
I’m quite a minimalist, so for me it’s all about using a few carefully chosen accessories to elevate an outfit rather than overcomplicating it. If I’m out picking up, I’ll likely be wearing waterproofs and a coat, but I’ll add a lovely roll-neck underneath, a silk scarf and a good hat. Small details like that can completely transform a practical working outfit into something polished, feminine and stylish.
I’d also encourage people not to be afraid of asking where someone’s outfit is from if they spot a piece they love. Not only will it make their day, but you might discover your next favourite item. And if it’s outside your budget, platforms such as Vinted can be brilliant for finding hidden gems.
Most importantly, be yourself. Wearing something that genuinely feels like you gives you a confidence that naturally shines through — and confidence is always the finishing touch to any outfit.
What stands out most when speaking to Vicky, is her appreciation for every aspect of fieldsports — from the camaraderie of a shoot day and the bond with her dogs, to the importance of ethics, conservation and lifelong learning.
Her journey is a reminder that there’s no set route into the sport. Whether your first experience is on a beating line, at a clay ground or simply through an interest in the countryside, there is a welcoming community waiting to help you find your place.
And perhaps the most valuable lesson of all is one she returns to time and time again:
"Everyone starts somewhere. The more you worry about being judged, the less you allow yourself to enjoy the experience."
Follow Vicky's journey on Instagram @vicky_fisher_92
