The Anatolian red deer (Cervus elaphus anatolica) has both a very large body and trophy size. A good stag typically has a body weight of between 250 and 300kg and the trophies can reach a size of between 8 and 13 kg, with a few achieving a weight as much as 15kg. Realistically you can expect a trophy weight of between 9 - 11 kg.

In prehistoric times the red stag was symbolic of strength to the Hittite people of Anatolia. Unfortunately the stags were nearly hunted to extinction. Because of this strict rules were put in place to help ensure the survival of this wonderful game animal. Now the population is big enough to sustain a limited amount of hunting, that licenses are now being issued again makes this tour even more attractive!

Our Turkish partners can offer hunting for Anatolian red stags close to the Black Sea north of Ankara, in the Marmara region, in central Anatolia and in the Taurus mountains.

Here there are excellent populations of red deer and a great chance of bagging a really fine trophy. 

The best period for hunting is during the rutting season: 20th September - 15th October.

The form of hunting is primarily stalking, but occasionally you might lie in wait in a strategically good position.

Hunters fly to Istanbul and then take a domestic flight. You will then be met at the airport and driven to the hunting district. Accommodation will be in a local hotel of a good standard and half board is included in the price of the package.

If you are interested it is possible to combine stag hunting with hunting for wild boars, and here the chance of shooting a really fine “Keiler” are also very good