Marco Polo Sheep Hunting in Kyrgyzstan.

Few big game animals capture the imagination of the hunter like mountain sheep.  Of the many sheep species recognized worldwide, one Asian sub-species found in Asia’s Pamir Mountains is the most captivating.  First described scientifically by zoologist Edward Blyth in 1841, the species was named after the the13th Century Venetian adventurer Marco Polo, who described the sheep in his book “The Travels of Marco Polo”.  These Asian sheep are universally referred to “argali” – a term which encompasses all of the various sub-species of Ovis ammon that inhabit the highlands of central Asia.

Most Marco Polo sheep (Ovis ammon polii) occur in the mountainous region adjacent to the borders of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and China at elevations ranging from 3,700 to 4,800 m (12,100 to 15,700 ft) above sea level.  These sheep share much of their habitat with animals such as the Siberian ibex (also known as Mid-Asian ibex), which are also a popular big game species in their own right.

These sheep are highly prized by sportsmen for their long spiraling horns, which can attain lengths of up to 178 cm (70 inches), although horns of this length are the exception, not the rule.  Today, hunting for Ovis ammon polii occurs primarily in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan and is subject to strict annual quotas established by each country in conjunction with sustainable harvest allowances approved by the Convention on Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).  As a result of these strict quotas, the desirability of the species from a sporting perspective, and the remote locations where hunting is allowed, we have seen prices spiraling ever upward over the last decade.

As stated above, both Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan offer government-approved hunting opportunities for these sheep, with rams taken in Tajikistan representing the largest Ovis ammon polii trophies taken – with most legally-harvested rams ranging from 140 to 165 cm (55 to 65 inches).  Larger rams have been taken in Tajikistan with at least two rams over the magical 178 cm (70 inch) mark having been taken in the last year or so.  The sheep found in Kyrgyzstan (south of the Naryn River) are smaller than their Tajik counterparts, with most rams averaging between 112 and 132 cm (44 to 52 inch) range.  There are larger sheep in Kyrgyzstan with sheep in the 155 cm (55 inch) range taken on occasion.  Again, this is the exception, not the rule.  It is not known why the sheep in Kyrgyzstan are generally smaller than their Tajik cousins – several of the conservation organizations including GSC/Ovis (Grand Slam Club/Ovis) have classified these sheep as a sub-species known as Ovis ammon humei or Hume argali for record-keeping purposes.  Unfortunately, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service does not recognize this classification for import purposes (sheep harvested south of the Naryn River are classified as Ovis ammon polii by the U.S. for import purposes) and to date there has not been universal agreement in the scientific community on the O. ammon humei classification.

Early in the season, the sheep (and ibex) can be expected at the higher elevations, migrating down to the lower elevations later in the season.  The Marco Polo rut generally occurs in mid-December.  Hunting seasons typically run from late summer through mid-winter in both countries, with the best hunting conditions to be found in late fall/early winter.  The Kyrgyz season generally runs from August 15 through December 15, closes for the rut and then re-opens on January 1 running to the end of February.  In Tajikistan, the season runs from September through March.  Temperatures will be milder early in the season and will get progressively colder later in the season, with sub-zero temperatures possible in January and February.  Normal daytime temperatures in November will range between 0 to 10°C (30 to 50°F), with night time temperatures ranging from -15 to -10°C (5 to 14°F).

Hunting methods vary dramatically between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, with most of the hunting in Tajikistan done from vehicles equipped with over-sized tires to accommodate over-the-snow travel while the Kyrgyz operators utilize horses to reach the hunting area from camp.  The Tajik method is to drive slowly and spot for sheep.  Once a suitable ram is located, the vehicle is parked and a stalk on foot ensues until such time as the hunter is in range for a shot.  The use of horses in Kyrgyzstan allows the hunter to access a much wider and diverse range of country in the pursuit of both sheep and ibex.  The horses also eliminate some of the physical exertion required in the stalk by allowing the party to get closer to the animals.  In either case, the ultimate success of the hunt will depend on the physical condition of the hunter and his/her ability to consistently make long shots.

From a pricing standpoint, Marco Polo hunts in Tajikistan are currently averaging in the high $30,000 price range, with hunts in Kyrgyzstan averaging about $10,000 cheaper than Tajikistan.  Trophy fees for ibex (where available) will increase the price of the hunt by an average of $4,000.  Ibex in Kyrgyzstan will average between 96 and 111 cm (38 to 44 inches), with larger ibex possible.

Global Sporting Safaris is currently planning a 10 day hosted hunt in Kyrgyzstan for Marco Polo sheep and ibex in November of 2013.  Our inaugural trip will be the first group in years to hunt these sheep in this outfitter’s exclusive hunting area.  Hunters can expect to see many rams over the course of the hunt and we anticipate 100% opportunity on mature rams in the 44 to 54 inch class.  Considering that these sheep have not been hunted very hard for quite some time, there is the potential for some really good rams – particularly on this first hunt.  We will take no more than three hunters on this initial hunt and the hunters will be accompanied by a representative of GSS who will be hunting as well.  There is the possibility for a second hosted hunt to be scheduled in either 2013 or 2014 based on interest.  We have priced this hunt at a remarkable $21,250, which is between $5,000 and $8,000 less than comparable hunts on the market today.  Mid-Asian ibex may be combined with sheep for an additional trophy fee of $3,000.  Travel to Kyrgyzstan will be accomplished via Turkish Airlines to Istanbul and thence on to Bishkek.  The party will be met in Bishkek by the outfitter and after a 14 hour drive we will arrive in camp.  We expect that most hunters will harvest their ram in 5 days, but we are providing amole time for those who wish to hold out for a bigger ram or wish to add ibex to their hunt.

Please contact Bob Anderson/Global Sporting Safaris today for more Marco Polo Sheep Hunting details on this very limited opportunity:   bob@gssafaris.com.

If possible, try to get to a higher elevation to help you better see the waters. If possible, climb up a bank while maintaining a lower profile as you scout. One of the most important tips we can give you is to wear polarized sunglasses. High quality glasses can make all the difference between a productive day on the river and failure. Glasses that are polarized remove the glare from the surface of the water and allow the angler a far superior view of the bottom of the river. It is also very important to select the right color of lens for the current conditions. A lighter colored lens will allow the fishermen to see well in low light, while a darker tint allows the angler to see far better when the sun is bright. Amber colored lenses are a popular tint for fly fishing in freshwater.

Many sportsmen may be surprised to hear we recommend sitefishing from ten in the morning until two in the afternoon. With the sun high in the sky, the stream or river bottom is illuminated, which allows you to more clearly see well into the river. It is critical that the sun is at your back so you are not producing a shadow that will make fish wary. Keep an eye out for places where you can peer into waters without having to fight the glare; these are often referred to as viewing lanes. Also stay on the lookout for water windows. These are intermittent flat spots that appear in turbulent or broken water that move downriver with currents.

Site Fishing Tips

The best angle for site fishing is to reposition your body downriver or across from a fish once you have spotted it. When you are repositioned, you may no longer be able to visually locate the fish, so mentally mark the location or place a big rock or stick on the bank to easily identify where you initially spotted your target.

The Trout species can take on the same color as the surrounding habitat. Rather than trying to site the entire trout, look for any signs that might indicate they are present, such as a tail waving, stream bottom shadows, or even flashes. Feeding Trout are most easily caught and indications they are feeding include white mouths, rises, flashes and trout that are suspended in a column of water.

Description

Bongo hunting

The lowland bongo is so skilled at evading human eyes that there is no commonly accepted estimate of their population. When one is spotted, though, there’s no mistaking it: they are the largest of all African forest antelope species (measuring about four feet at the shoulder and weighing in at around 500 pounds) and have a distinctive white-striped red coat.

The gently spiraling horns are carried by males and females alike, though the males’ are more impressive. These commonly reach lengths of over thirty inches but can grow much larger. Due to the difficult nature of the hunt, it’s generally considered unwise to be picky about your trophy—any adult male is more than worthwhile.

Bongo Hunting in the Rainforests of Cameroon 

Bongo hunting is difficult for a variety of reasons. First, they’re largely nocturnal, making it tough—but certainly not impossible—to hunt them from blinds. They live in dense undergrowth where the hunter will have very little visibility and are as wary as guard dogs in a warzone, making them nearly impossible to sneak up on. If you do spot one while walking through the forest, it’ll usually be a brief glimpse as it leaps up and sprints through the thick cover. It takes exceptional reflexes to bag one this way. If you’re interested in giving this challenging and exciting method a shot, you can work with GSS-represented outfitters who will help you track bongos into the rainforest.

One of the best ways to level the playing field is to work with hunting dogs. While this option isn’t legal in some countries, it is in Cameroon, and it has the highest success rate of all techniques. GSS represents an outfitter that works with some of the pygmy peoples who live in these rainforests, hunting with dogs as a way of life. You couldn’t ask for any better guides on such a difficult hunt.

If you have the skill and endurance to go bongo hunting, don’t pass it up.  This is an experience you’ll always remember.

For additional information on hunting Bongo, please contact Bob Anderson at Global Sporting Safaris at 888-850-4868, Extension 701.

The Quarry

Author’s son Cody with a nice Impala ram.

The impala can be found everywhere from South Africa and Botswana north to Kenya, as well as in Namibia and Angola, the home countries of the rare black-faced impala. They are one of the most common antelope on the continent with numbers ranging around two million, and virtually every African country represented by GSS offers opportunities for impala hunting.

The impala has a very distinctive multihued coat. The majority is reddish and gives it its Afrikaans name, rooibok (red buck). It suddenly becomes lighter along the flanks, then turns pure white on the belly and under parts. A black stripe down the center of the tail forms an M with two diagonal black stripes down either side of the rump, and white and black markings are present on the face, chin and legs. The black-faced impala is larger and has a distinctive black stripe running from its nose to its forehead.

Most impala stand about three feet tall at the shoulder. Males are significantly heavier than females and can weigh as much as 180 pounds.

Only males carry horns. Their multiple graceful curves form a lyre shape averaging about 20 inches. Anything at least an inch above average is trophy length, but if you find one with horns greater than 30 inches long during your impala hunt then you’ve got a real monster on your hands. Don’t miss!

The Hunt

The best time to go on your impala hunt is during the rut, when the strongest males (who often—but not always—make the best trophies) will be traveling with herds of females. Take note that this situation will call for more careful shooting, especially if you’re using a large-caliber rifle loaded with solids—the last thing you want to do is wound the females and young after your bullet passes through the ram. The impala’s tendency to group together tightly when frightened makes this even trickier.

The most commonly recommended rifles for impala hunting are those ranging from 6mm to .30 caliber. High lung shots are the best choice for bringing your target down quickly without spoiling the meat; heart shots are excellent if you are mostly interested in the trophy and want to be absolutely sure he doesn’t go anywhere.

Call Global Sporting Safaris today at 888-850-4868, Extension 701 and let us know what type of impala hunting experience you are looking for. We’ll send you information on opportunities that match your goals. Our experienced outfitters are second to none and we’re happy to share personal experiences with you.

Distribution

Carmen Mountain Whitetail Deer: Distribution and Conservation

The Carmen Mountain whitetail is named, not surprisingly, for the Sierra del Carmen range, which crosses the U.S.–Mexico border. The Carmen Mountains are located mainly in Texas; the highest point is Sue Peaks, in Brewster County, Texas, at over 5,800 feet above sea level.

The deer can be found on both sides of the Rio Grande, in Coahuila and Texas’ Big Bend National Park.

Carmen deer are normally only found in certain mountain ranges, including the Burros (Coahuila, Mexico), Carmen (Texas and Coahuila), and Chisos, Chinati, Rosillos, Christmas, Del Norte, Vieja, or Dead Horse mountains (Brewster and Presidio Counties, Texas). They are rarely found below heights of 4,500 feet and tend to avoid flat ground.

The Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park are home to the largest, most stable population of Carmen whitetails in the U.S. The high altitudes provide a perfect environment: the highest peak in these mountains, Emory Peak, stands taller than 7,800 feet above sea level. The temperatures here rarely reach extremes, sometimes climbing into the 80s during the summer and rarely falling below 20 degrees Fahrenheit at the coldest point in the year.

Conservation

At the moment, it’s unclear if the mountain ranges in Texas, other than the Chisos, will be able to support these deer in the long run. Their need for free-standing water and dense vegetation at high altitudes leaves them with a very limited habitat, and predation, hunting, and competition with livestock could destroy these populations. Between the limited opportunities and the conservation issues, these mountains are less highly recommended than other destinations.

Predation is a serious issue for Carmen whitetails—mountain lion attacks are the leading cause of death for them. Coyotes and bobcats are also known to prey on them.

GSS represents excellent outfitters operating in Coahuila, in locations where the populations are larger and more stable than most U.S. locations. However, the effect of human interaction on the Carmen Mountain whitetail deer population is unclear. Their elevated habitat and small size may help limit local hunting pressure, and while competition with livestock can sometimes be problematic, ranches that introduce new water sources at high altitudes can be beneficial. As always, hunt within the mindset that hunting is applied conservation. For additional information on hunting this whitetail deer sub-species, please contact Rick Kennerknecht at Global Sporting Safaris at 888-850-4868, Extension 702.

Cape Eland Hunting in South Africa’s Eastern Cape

Cape eland hunting is one of the best trophy opportunities available in South Africa. These giants of the bushveld and forest make for a difficult and rewarding main hunt or a thrilling target of opportunity. Anyone hunting in the Eastern Cape should take this enormous antelope into consideration.

The Quarry

The Cape eland ranges through much of South Africa and northward into Botswana and Namibia. Though they were once severely overhunted and disappeared in most regions of South Africa, re-introduction efforts have restored them to most of their former territory and the Eastern Cape is once again a top-notch eland hunting destination.

Cape eland have a tawny coat. Unlike other eland subspecies, they usually have no notable markings, with their white stripes disappearing as they get older. Only a few have white facial markings or dark patches on the back of their legs. Both sexes boast a short mane and a large dewlap; this dewlap has a fringe of long hairs which is more noticeable in bulls. Old males begin to develop a bluish coloration about the neck as they age, and many consider these to be the finest trophies, even when their horns are worn down.

On average, this eland stands about five and a half feet tall at the shoulder. Males usually weigh more than 1500 pounds while females are significantly lighter, averaging less than 1000 pounds.

Both sexes carry beautiful spiraling horns with curved tips which can point in variable directions—it’s not uncommon to see forward-curved or backward-curved horns. Females are known for occasionally carrying the longest horns, but those of males are thicker and heavier. Horns above thirty inches are considered quality trophy length, with horns in the 40 inch range being truly world class. Anything much longer than that may be a record-breaker! That said, you shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to take a target with smaller horns. Eland hunting is difficult, and any healthy bull makes for a very respectable trophy.

The Hunt

Eland hunting is never easy, and the Cape eland can be particularly tough. Unlike some of their more gregarious cousins, they don’t tend to associate in extremely large herds, and generally stick together in groups of about two dozen animals. However, they do share the never-look-back retreat habits of other eland, and will lead you on a merry chase that can last days if they’re alerted.

Another difficulty is their tendency to live in thick cover, and the hunter will often have to stalk them through forests or dense brush. Be prepared for both short-range and long-range shots if you’re engaging in an active hunt like this. Other hunters prefer to use stands or blinds, but this is an extremely unpredictable quarry and even the best placement might not yield an opportunity. Your outfitter will advise you on the best methods for your hunt.

Whichever method you use, one thing is certain: it’s the thrill of a lifetime when you get a bull in your sights. This is a true African hunting experience that nobody should pass up.

Call Global Sporting Safaris today at 888-850-4868, Extension 702 and let us know what type of Cape eland hunting experience you are looking for. We’ll send you information on opportunities that match your goals. Our experienced outfitters are second to none and we’re happy to share personal experiences with you.

Why Cameroon’s Lord Derby?

The Lord Derby (giant) eland’s shoulder can easily match the tops of most hunter’s hats, as they often grow up to six feet tall. The largest of them measure nine feet in length and weigh up to 2,000 pounds. Their spiral horns are some of the most impressive in the animal kingdom and can grow to over 48 inches long.

The Lord Derbys found in Cameroon are some of the finest specimens of the species. Their horns are longer than those of the western giant eland and thicker than those of Lord Derbys found in the CAR; it’s also larger than its western cousin. Add to this the accessibility of Cameroon for hunters and it becomes clear that this is one of the best choices available for a hunter seeking an eland trophy.

What to Expect on Your Hunt

Most Lord Derby hunts begin with the outfitter taking you out at the break of dawn in search of recent tracks. This is done from vehicles whenever possible, but if the eland are moving away from the roads, your group may need to search on foot instead.

Once you find a good set of tracks, you can count on getting a run for your money. These eland are constantly on the move, roaming impatiently across the countryside. Since you’ll almost certainly need to follow them on foot, often in extremely hot weather, this can get difficult fast. The herd will keep moving while the outfitter leads you along the tracks. The only way to get within range is to move faster than they do until you catch up to them, which can take several days.

When you get close, the outfitter will take care to put you within range without startling the herd, which may require some careful stalking. Elands are very alert, and are much smarter than most other antelope—unlike many of their smaller cousins, who look back to see if they’re being pursued, these guys just run, and run far. Aim carefully and bring your hunt to a quick and successful conclusion.

For additional information on hunting the giant eland, please contact Bob Anderson at Global Sporting Safaris at 888-850-4868, Extension 701.

Carmen Mountain Whitetail Hunting Tips: Where to Hunt

Every hunter knows that knowing one’s quarry is the key to success on any hunt, and Carmen Mountain whitetail deer hunting is certainly no exception. These deer are limited to specific areas due to their very particular preferences in habitat. Knowing what they like—and what they avoid—will allow you to spot a prime hunting spot from a mile away.

While GSS-represented outfitters will always lead you to the best hunting areas possible, the following information will let you know what to expect and will help you to gain more from your hunting experience.

Slope and Elevation

These are true mountain deer. They’re almost never found below heights of 4,500 feet, preferring to make their homes far above the desert floor. They also greatly prefer slopes to flat land, and most commonly bed down on moderate or gentle slopes with inclines of 20 degrees or less. They’ll only rarely select a flat area, with about one in twenty bedding sites found on flat ground.

When choosing where to hunt, avoid southern exposures. These tend to be more arid and offer less cover, and the deer wisely stay away from them. They show no particular preference between northern, eastern and western exposures, and any of these is as likely as the next to host your quarry.

Vegetation 

Carmen Mountain whitetail deer prefer to bed down in areas with dense cover, especially dry creek beds surrounded by trees and shrubs. Sumac, oak, desert willow, mountain mahogany, ash, juniper, and pinyon pine are frequently found in abundance at these sites, and combinations of oak, pinyon, and juniper are clear favorites. They seem to need dense vegetation to thrive, so look for thick stands of trees that might attract them.

Water 

While they’ve adapted well to the desert, these whitetail deer still need free-standing water sources to get by. Look for mountain springs and other elevated water sources. On ranchland, Carmen whitetails will often take advantage of the water sources provided for the livestock if they can.

In Short . . . 

While you’re on your Carmen Mountain whitetail deer hunting trip, look for areas of thick vegetation, close to free-standing water, on gentle to moderate slopes at elevations of 4,500 feet or greater. Dry stream beds are especially promising. Generally, it is best to avoid flat or low ground, southern slopes, and open areas with scarce cover unless you have good reason to believe the deer are there.   For additional information on hunting this whitetail deer sub-species, please contact Rick Kennerknecht at Global Sporting Safaris at 888-850-4868, Extension 702.

The Quarry

Giraffe Hunting in Namibia and South Africa

Giraffes can be found in pockets throughout Africa, with some found as far northwest as Niger and as far to the east as Ethiopia. There are several subspecies, and many of these are listed as endangered, largely due to severe poaching problems in certain countries; however, regulated giraffe hunting is still available for many other subspecies, and the species as a whole is listed as “least concern” by the IUCN. The Namibian and South African subspecies represented by GSS are two of the safest and most populous, totaling more than 30,000 animals combined.

Thanks to their long necks and legs, giraffes are the tallest animals walking the land today. They have distinctive coats that range from tawny to white and are marked with dark spots or patches. These patches form distinct patterns in each subspecies, and every individual’s coat is as unique as a human’s fingerprints. The long neck is topped with a short, stiff mane.

Bulls weigh in at an average of 3,500 pounds—nearly double the weight of the average female. They are also taller and can reach heights of 20 feet. Their height allows them to reach the high branches of acacia trees and, when combined with their extremely wide range of vision and excellent senses, makes them uniquely adapted to spotting their few predators from a long distance.

Both males and females have short horns; those of the female are tufted. These are generally not used to determine worthiness for a trophy—most hunters simply look for large bulls when they’re on a giraffe hunt. Old bulls that are past their breeding days are the best choice for conservation, but their coats may not be as attractive as those of younger individuals. Hunting the cows is not recommended as this species reproduces slowly.

The Hunt

Giraffes can either be very easy or very difficult to hunt. Since only a small percentage of sportsmen decide to go on a giraffe hunt, many of these animals will pay very little attention to approaching hunters. However, those who have learned to be wary can be a challenge: as mentioned above, they have very acute senses and a huge advantage over the hunter in height. Add to this the fact that you’ll usually be pursuing your quarry in plains or open forest and it’s not hard to see how difficult it can be to close the distance.

A fairly powerful gun and careful shot placement are crucial. Use a gun that’s larger than 9mm; .375-.40 are the most commonly recommended calibers. Placing a heart or lung shot can be difficult due to the animal’s strange anatomy, and the brain is an extremely small target. Study shot placement charts carefully before beginning your giraffe hunt, and always listen to your outfitters’ advice.

Call Global Sporting Safaris today at 888-850-4868, Extension 701 and let us know what type of giraffe hunting experience you are looking for. We’ll send you information on opportunities that match your goals. Our experienced outfitters are second to none and we’re happy to share personal experiences with you.