FAQs about foxhunting and visiting Farmington Hunt Club

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Following are some frequently asked questions about visiting and hunting with Farmington Hunt Club.

Hunting FAQs

What time are the Meets? +

During cub hunting season meets are traditionally at 8 am with later times as the season progresses. All times are subject to change, pending scenting conditions and weather. Formal season meet times are usually 10 am, or later as the season and weather require. For details consult the Fixture card, the Hunt line, the website or contact us. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the meet to allow time to be ready to move off promptly at the appointed time. Remember: slow down! Be courteous to our landowners and drive slowly (15mph or less) when approaching and entering the location of the meet, giving right of way to all pedestrians and animals.
What is the dress code? +

In early cubbing season dress is informal and/or ratcatcher (tweed coat). Collared shirts such as “polo” shirts or turtlenecks, tucked in, are acceptable. Solid muted colors (except red) are preferred. Earth tone breeches, boots are preferred, and protective head gear (velvet covered cap with chin harness) are recommended for adults, and required for juniors.

For Formal Hunting Season, Formal Attire is required Tuesdays and Saturdays, and Ratcatcher on Thursdays. After January 1st Ratcatcher is allowed on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
What do I do if I want to hunt as a Visitor? +

Visitors are welcome with permission from the Master (434) 293-4467. Capping fees apply, and a signed waiver form is required. All must carry a Virginia Hunting License. The Field Secretary accepts cap fees and waiver forms at the meet.
How do I get directions to the meet? +

For members, log in to see the fixture card and maps. For Visitors, contact us or call the Master: 434-293-4467.
How can I become a Member of Farmington? +

For more information click here.
I want to follow a hunt, but I do not ride. Is this possible? +

Yes, for more information contact Joy Crompton.
I like to trail ride and I would like to try hunting, so what should I do? +

Hunting is a thrilling sport that is best enjoyed if both you and your horse are properly prepared. Become familiar with the Hunting Protocol, contact a Master to ask permission to join a hunt, and perhaps first try hunting on an experienced mount (several members offer experienced horses for a fee).
I want to trail ride on land in the Farmington Hunt Club territory, is this OK? +

Only with permission granted to an individual by the landowner.
I want to trail ride with Farmington but I am not a member, is this possible? +

Yes! Farmington offers a popular Walk and Talk trail ride series from mid May through August. Rides are Tuesdays and Sundays from area fixtures. For more information contact Kay Butterfield, 434-823-5698.
How much does it cost? (Capping Fees) +
Capping Fees:

Adults, $100

Students, $25
When does FHC hunt? +

We hunt on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Cub hunting season is early September, usually Labor Day weekend through October. Formal Hunting season opens in late October or early November. For locations, consult the Fixture Card (membership login required) or contact us for more information. Always consult the Hunt Monitor Line: 434-978-1107 for last-minute changes and updates.
Is a hunting license required? +

Yes, everyone who hunts (even just once) who is 12 years of age or older needs to buy an annual (or lifetime) Virginia hunting license and bring it with them to the meets. Annual rate is $18 if aged 16-64. Reduced rates if 12-15 ($8.50) or over 65 ($7.00).

Buy your license online or at stores such as Kmart.
Waiver +

Everyone who rides in a Farmington-sponsored horse show, hunt, trail ride, hunter pace, etc. needs to sign both a Farmington Hunt Club waiver (digital) AND a Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority waiver (digital), as they own quite a bit of the land that we ride across in the Free Union area. These need only be signed once, they do not need to be signed every year.