Stop chasing, make the field a calm place, approach at an angle to the shoulder, reward the horse for standing, and practise catching and releasing without always meaning work.
Understand why it happens
Most horses avoid being caught because catching predicts something they dislike: hard work, being taken from friends, or rough handling. Some have learned that running off works. The goal is to change what being caught means for the horse.
Change your approach
Walk calmly and approach the shoulder at an angle rather than marching straight at the head, which feels confrontational. Keep your body relaxed and your eyes soft. If the horse moves away, pause rather than chase, since chasing confirms the game.
Make it rewarding
Reward the horse the moment it lets you approach, with a scratch on the withers, a kind word, or a small treat. A treat dispenser or a pocket of feed can help, but rely on it less over time so the horse is caught for you, not only for food.
Practise catching for nothing
Go to the field, catch the horse, give a scratch, and let it go again without working it. Do this often so being caught no longer predicts effort. Have a well-fitted halter and lead rope ready so the moment is calm and quick.
Set the field up for success
Catching in a smaller pen is easier than a huge field while you rebuild trust. Bringing a calm companion, feeding at catching time, and keeping every interaction pleasant all help turn a hard-to-catch horse into a willing one.
