Three bored, high-achieving men decide to commit a daring act of poaching on three Scottish estates to inject excitement into their stagnant lives. Facing the monotony of their professional success, Sir Edward Leithen, John Palliser-Yeates, and Charles Lamancha challenge the local landowners by announcing their intent to steal a stag or salmon from each estate. They must navigate the physical demands of the Scottish Highlands while evading gamekeepers and police. The narrative follows their elaborate planning and the subsequent cat-and-mouse games that ensue across the rugged landscape. The story unfolds through a mix of witty dialogue and descriptions of the pursuit, highlighting the tension between the protagonists' social standing and their illicit activities.

Readers often note the lighthearted and adventurous tone that defines this work. Discussion frequently centers on the contrast between the protagonists' high-status backgrounds and their unconventional criminal behavior. Critics highlight the effective use of the Scottish landscape as a central character that dictates the pace of the narrative. Many readers appreciate the balance between the humorous premise and the genuine tension of the poaching escapades. The book is frequently cited for its exploration of the ennui experienced by the elite during the early twentieth century.