The Macnab Challenge has its roots in the 1925 novel John Macnab by John Buchan.

The story follows three protagonists: Sir Edward Leithen, John Palliser-Yeates and Lord Lamancha, all desperate to relieve the ennui that has engulfed them. The solution can only be something devilish, with a dash of daring. Under the mantle of John Macnab, they issue a warning to three Highland estates: within 48 hours they will remove a salmon or stag, undetected, and present it at the door of the house. On this, they stake their reputations and the danger proves innervating.

The modern Macnab Challenge: bagging a salmon, stag and brace of grouse within one day between dawn and dusk, was derived by The Field magazine from Buchan’s tale. It is a thrilling test of sporting skill (with a dash of luck thrown in). The Field’s Macnab Challenge is open to all those who have successfully completed a Macnab within the current sporting season. For those who have done so beforehand we invite them to join our Macnab Club.

This year we are delighted to welcome Delaney & Sons and Westley Richards as associate sponsors of The Field’s Macnab Challenge.

Read more about the 2025 Macnab Challenge and the conservation work behind each species.

Rules  |  Types of Macnab  |  Advice   |  What to pack