For centuries, fox hunting has blended sport, tradition, and community. Originating in England as a way to control fox populations, it grew into a highly ritualized pastime defined by pageantry, skillful riding, and camaraderie among hunt members. While the goal of many hunts has evolved, no longer aiming to kill the fox, the sport still celebrates the thrill of the chase and the bonds formed in the field.
This guide explores fox hunting’s rich history, rules, and traditions, along with what you’ll need to participate today.
What is fox hunting?
Fox hunting is a mounted equestrian sport in which riders follow a pack of trained foxhounds as they track a scent across the countryside. Depending on the hunt, riders may pursue a live fox and call off the hounds once they’ve caught up, chase another quarry, or follow a drag scent or “dummy fox.” Hunts typically cover varied terrain, requiring riders to navigate fences, streams, and rough ground while keeping pace with the hounds.
The history of fox hunting
Origins
Many ancient civilizations used hounds to track prey, but the tradition of training hounds to hunt foxes began in 1534 when an English farmer made the first attempt to catch a fox with farm dogs. To farmers, foxes that ate and burrowed in their crops were pests. Hunters became interested in foxes as prey in the 17th century, but it wasn’t until the 18th century that fox hunting developed into a sport.
In 1753, Hugo Meynell, deemed the father of modern fox hunting, started breeding hounds specifically for fox hunting. Because the hounds increased the efficiency of fox hunting, hunts could begin later in the day, and the sport gained traction with younger men. By the 18th century, fox hunting’s popularity soared due to the decrease in England’s deer population.
19th century
Upon the development of the Great British Railway in the 19th century, city dwellers gained easier access to rural land. This further popularized fox hunting in England among all, not just farmers and landowners.
20th century
The 20th century marked additional growth for the sport, followed by significant controversy. Before WWI, the sport became organized under the Master of Foxhounds Association (MFHA). A few decades later, several European countries placed a ban on fox hunting, but the tradition continued in the United Kingdom.
The sport was heavily debated in England on anti-cruelty grounds, but the UK Government did not get involved until 1999. Controversy within Parliament delayed the passing of the act that banned traditional fox hunting until 2004.
21st century
Fox hunting with hounds was banned in Scotland by 2002, and in England and Wales by 2005. However, the sport had already gained popularity in other parts of the world, and it remains popular in many countries today, including the United States.
Despite bans in the UK, the controversy around fox hunting remains a lively debate. Many continue to fox hunt, arguing that the sport should be preserved as a British tradition. Others find ways to continue the tradition while respecting the ban. In many countries, fox hunting clubs have found alternative ways to enjoy the hunt without killing the fox.
Fox hunting rules
As tradition holds, you must be invited by the hunt master to participate in a hunt. Some fox hunting clubs allow members of the hunt to bring a guest, but this must be approved by the hunt master. The hunt master organizes the hunt and appoints a huntsman to control the hounds and whippers-in to help the huntsman. The staff appointed by the hunt master, the master, and the hounds have the right of way during a hunt and typically ride at the front.
Hunts usually last three to four hours, with several pursuits within that time. Here is what happens during a fox hunt:
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The day starts with a meet where hunt followers meet up and greet the hunt master
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The hunt begins when the hunt master directs the hounds to search for the quarry, which could be a fox, scent, or other prey
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Hounds are trained to speak to indicate when they have found a scent to follow
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When a staff member or follower sights a fox, he or she yells “tally-ho” to begin the chase
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The chase continues until the pack reaches the quarry or loses the scent, at which point the hounds are called off by the huntsman
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After a chase, the hounds are sent to find another scent to pursue
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When the hunt ends, the host for the day holds a “hunt breakfast”, which is usually an afternoon meal
Fox hunting can be challenging for beginner riders and horses as they attempt to keep up and navigate rough terrain. Junior riders, riders with guests, and riders on green horses join the back of the pack to avoid getting in others’ way.
Modern-day fox hunting
Fox hunting remains a popular equestrian sport in North America, Great Britain, and many other parts of the world. While many customs and traditions have been preserved, modern hunts often look different from those of the past. Here’s a closer look at fox hunting as it’s practiced in the United States today.
The Masters of Foxhounds Association of North America
In the United States and Canada, the Masters of Foxhounds Association of North America (MFHA) serves as the primary organization for mounted hunting with hounds. The MFHA works to preserve tradition while promoting horsemanship, sportsmanship, and responsible breeding of hounds. It also provides education about the sport and supports a growing community of members. Today, there are 128 MFHA-recognized hunts across North America.
Modern types of fox hunting
Because fox hunting in the US has shifted from farm protection to sport, new regulations and practices have shaped how hunts take place. Most clubs today participate in one of the following forms of mounted hunting:
Drag hunting
A scent is laid along a predetermined route that often includes natural obstacles, much like an equestrian cross-country course. This ensures hounds follow the intended trail rather than live prey.
Trail hunting
A trail is laid using animal urine. However, because the hounds are following a natural smell, they may end up pursuing live animals. Trail hunting remains controversial, as it has sometimes been linked with illegal fox hunting practices.
Clean boot hunting
Bloodhounds track the scent of a human runner instead of quarry. Since no artificial scent is used, there’s no risk of confusing the hounds with the smell of live wildlife, making it one of the most humane fox hunting alternatives.
Fox chasing
In areas where foxes are present, hunts may pursue a fox until it goes to ground, then call off the hounds and begin again with another. The fox is not harmed, but participants still enjoy the thrill of following a live chase.
Coyote hunting
Because coyotes are abundant and legal to hunt in much of the US, they are sometimes pursued instead of foxes. Hounds can also mistake a coyote’s scent for that of a fox, leading to an unplanned chase.
Where to experience a hunt
Fox hunting is most active in regions with open countryside and wooded terrain, particularly the Carolinas, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. The type of fox hunting available often depends on local wildlife: fox chasing is most common in areas with healthy fox populations, while drag hunting and clean boot hunting are popular alternatives elsewhere. To find hunt clubs near you, check out the MFHA Hunt Index.
Wildlife and conservation considerations
In North America, foxes are not generally considered overpopulated or agricultural pests, so most hunt clubs avoid killing them. Preserving healthy fox populations ensures there will always be quarry to chase in future hunts and supports broader ecosystem balance. This conservation-minded approach reflects how the sport has evolved: the emphasis is now on horsemanship, the ability of the hounds, and the excitement of the chase rather than the kill.
What do English fox hunters need?
Fox hunting attire
To maintain the rich fox hunting tradition, there are strict requirements for formal fox hunt attire. If you’re joining a hunt, this is what you should wear:
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White show shirt
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Light-colored breeches
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Riding helmet or hunt cap
The required fox hunting attire may vary based on the club and the formality of the hunt. However, you should always avoid wearing a red coat on a hunt. Since the beginning of the sport, red coats have been reserved for hunt masters and other staff.
If you’d like to learn more about what to wear to a fox hunt, check out our beginner’s guide to fox hunting attire and etiquette.
Fox hunting equipment
While modern fox hunting does not require a gun or other traditional hunting equipment, there is some equipment you should bring to keep you, your horse, and those around you safe.
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First aid kit. Fox hunting can be a dangerous sport. Horses ride close to one another at quick speeds and over rough terrain. Bring supplies such as gauze, bandages, and splints to tend to injured horses or riders.
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Safety riding gear. You should wear gloves to protect you and help you grip. Although a safety air vest is not required, it is a good idea for beginners to wear one for protection.
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Well-trained horse. Because there are hounds and other horses involved in a fox hunt, beginners should ride a well-trained horse. Green horses should only be used by experienced fox hunters.
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Leg protectors. Protect your horse’s legs from other horses and from overreaching with boots that will not trap water and dirt. To maintain a professional look, match the boots to your horse’s coat as closely as possible.
With all the rules and tradition, fox hunting can be overwhelming for beginners. But with the right attire and equipment, you can focus on learning the ropes and keeping up with the pack knowing you’re properly dressed and prepared for a safe hunt.
How to fox hunt
Because you must be invited to a hunt, fox hunting can be a difficult sport to get into. But if you’re interested in giving it a try, don’t let that stop you! Here are a few practical steps for getting started in fox hunting:
1. Ride rough trails with your horse
Fox hunting is very different from equestrian sports that take place in a show ring. Before you join a hunt, you and your horse must be comfortable riding on rough terrain. Find a trail available to the public, and practice until you feel you and your horse are ready to ride alongside other horses and riders.
2. Get the right tack and attire
Use a comfortable saddle and bridle suited for long rides, plus protective boots for your horse. For yourself, follow your hunt’s dress code—usually a helmet, breeches, boots, a stock tie, a vest, and a hunt coat—to ensure safety and respect tradition.
3. Start with a capping day
Most clubs allow guests to join for a single day by paying a “capping fee.” This gives you the chance to ride with the hunt, learn etiquette firsthand, and decide if you’d like to pursue membership. It’s an excellent way to experience the atmosphere of a hunt before committing to a full season.
4. Join a hunt
If you enjoyed your capping day, the next step is applying for membership with a local hunt. Most clubs welcome new riders who show respect for tradition and etiquette. The season typically lasts from November to March, so the best time to reach out is early fall.
5. Learn the rules and etiquette
Each hunting club will follow some rules and etiquette more closely than others. The best way to learn is to talk to other members and participate in hunts. Before you know it, you’ll be yelling, “Tally-ho!”
6. Invite others
Once you get the hang of fox hunting, invite your friends! There is a big social aspect to fox hunting, and it’s a fun sport you’ll want to share with others. Just remember, you must ask permission before the day of the hunt, and you are responsible for your guests.
Fox hunting FAQs
Is fox hunting illegal?
The laws surrounding fox hunting depend on the country. While fox hunting is still legal in several countries, it is banned in England, Scotland, and Wales, where it first began. Even so, fox hunting has continued illegally under the cover of trail hunting, or laying a scent for hounds to follow. While trail hunting is an accepted alternative to traditional fox hunting, some misuse it to hide illegal fox hunting practices.
Do fox hunts still happen?
There are several legal renditions of the sport that allow the fox hunting tradition to live on today. In the US and Canada, for example, fox hunting often involves hunting the large population of coyotes instead of foxes. Otherwise, trail hunting and chasing but not killing foxes are popular alternatives to traditional English fox hunting. There are over 100 MFHA-recognized hunts in North America.
Are foxes harmed during a US hunt?
No, foxes are not usually harmed during hunts in the US. While foxes can legally be hunted during certain seasons, most hunt clubs avoid killing foxes to ensure a healthy population remains for future chases.
How much does fox hunting cost?
If you’re just joining a hunt for a day, you’ll have to pay a capping fee, which usually ranges from $50 to $150 per guest. Hunt club memberships vary from several hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the club, your age, and the type of membership you’re interested in. Some may additionally require a membership initiation fee, but many will apply any previously paid capping fees toward your membership if you decide or are asked to join later on.
Join the hunt in style
Fox hunting is all about the excitement of the chase, the connection with fellow riders, and the centuries of tradition. As you prepare to ride, the right attire helps you honor that heritage while feeling confident in the field. R.J. Classics is committed to providing high-quality riding attire that upholds rich tradition without looking outdated or sacrificing performance. Explore our men’s and women’s fox hunting collections to find a polished look for your first—or next—hunt.
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