Red Deer, Mouflon, Chamois
Exuding old world charm, Czechia's (Czech Republic) centuries-long hunting tradition and scientific game management policies have earned its position as one of the most desirable hunting destinations in Europe. In what once was 11th century Bohemia, nobles hosted red deer and wild boar hunts for distinguished guests. During the Habsburg monarchy, royal hunting castles were built to support the hunting ritual.
The historical term myslivost (derived from "to think") reflects Czech philosophy of emphasizing sustainability and respect for nature. Thanks to its conservation efforts, particularly selective breeding, Chechia's exceptional trophy-class potential is universally recognized, particularly in regard to its elites species of European Mouflon and Red Deer. And the country's professional hunters are adept at leveraging this potential in serving the goals of discerning trophy hunters.
From Bohemian forests to Moravian lowlands, a mix of deciduous forests, hilly regions, and agricultural plains provide diverse hunting landscapes over 2.8 million hectares (approximately 7 million square miles) of available hunting territory. Hunters have a choice of free-range or estate-based hunts and each has merit.
Regardless of the type of hunt preferred, hunters will experience a high standard of food and accommodations. Some accommodations, particularly those offered on the estate hunts, are absolutely luxurious. Depending on the area and type of hunt, classic hunting lodges, country manors, village inns, cottages, and castles all provide civilized comforts and warm hospitality.
When priorities turn to finding a Mouflon for the trophy room, Chechia is a top choice for trophy mouflon, if not the premier choice across all the countries these beautiful sheep inhabit. In fact, Chechia, is revered for its ability to consistently produce full-arching, thick-horned trophies – seemingly outsized compared to their bodies. These crafty sheep are active at night constantly move around in their domain to create a proper hunting challenge.
Referred to as "The Royal Game," the Red Deer is another premier species. Trophy stags with high CIC scores points are taken regularly, especially during the rutting season (mid-September to mid-October). The country's highest scoring stag was recorded at 262.46 CIC.
Fallow Deer are prized for their distinctive coloration and palmated antlers. Chechia produces their share of record-class specimens annually.
Abundant across Czechia, Roe Deer are plentiful, and hunting them is a passion, especially for our European hunters, from late spring through late summer.
Introduced in the late 19th century, Japanese Sika Deer are thriving particularly in western Czechia. This unique trophy is an alert and wary and requires skill and cunning during the stalk.
With Wild Boar populations have been growing significantly and are hunted year-round. The highest trophy scored 134.35 CIC.
Big game hunting in Czechia employs several techniques tailored to the species and season. Driven hunts and stand hunting, particularly at night, are traditional methods for hunting wild boar. Mouflon, which are wary and nocturnal, require careful spotting and stalking in densely forested areas. Spot and stalk and stand hunting for Red Deer can involve calling, especially during the roar. Stalking Roe Deer and Sika Deer requires stealth with every movement. Driven hunts are used for population control of many species, mainly on estates. These are group hunts involving action that can heat up and quick reflexes are required to maximize the harvest.
Overall, for hunters seeking a blend of tradition, quality, and adventure, Czechia is highly recommended. Desirable species, consistent trophy quality, professional guiding, and excellent accommodations add up to a wonderful experience wrapped in old world culture. Caprinae Safaris has been successfully hunting Chechia for many years and our curated programs offer the best of what this wonderful country produces. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation on the possibilities.