August Profile: Cassie
Hello. My name is Cassie and I am a gamekeeper on Exmoor.
I started my journey into gamekeeping about seven years ago, transitioning from a visual merchandiser position at H&M. So two very different industry’s .
I wanted a complete career change, I began exploring different industries that grabbed my interest. It was during this search that I discovered gamekeeping, a field I found both intriguing and fulfilling.
I took my first steps by volunteering on a grouse moor in Wales during weekends, where I eagerly absorbed knowledge and hands-on experience. This opportunity paved the way for my first seasonal position on a game farm in Hertfordshire, allowing me to further immerse myself in the world of gamekeeping and game rearing.
Soon after, I secured my first underkeeper position on a small commercial shoot in Shropshire. There, I dedicated four rewarding seasons to honing my skills and deepening my understanding of the industry. Each day was filled with challenges that kept me engaged and eager to learn more.
For the past three seasons, I have been proudly working on a large commercial shoot on Exmoor, where I’m set to enter my fourth year. In this role, I oversee my own beat, which includes a pheasant drive and two partridge drives. This responsibility has provided me with invaluable experience and a deeper appreciation for game management.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is training my own team of dogs. Witnessing them in action, displaying their skills and dedication, brings me a lot of joy and makes me so proud.
Their enthusiasm and teamwork mirror my own passion for this profession, and together, we aim to make each day a memorable experience.
As I continue to grow in my career, I'm excited about the future opportunities within gamekeeping and the chance to further refine my expertise.
Working as a gamekeeper has allowed me to live within some of the most stunning countryside, offering daily encounters with wildlife in its natural habitat. Seeing different species of birds, mammals, insects etc is another reason why I love being a gamekeeper.
It's fascinating to realise that much of what I see thrives here because this shoot exists.
The careful management practices we employ—such as planting cover crops, maintaining woodlands, and conducting predator control—play a crucial role in supporting our local ecosystem. Without these efforts, many species would struggle to survive. I take great pride in knowing that my work contributes to the preservation and enhancement of this remarkable environment.
