BLUE SHEEP HUNT
Rifle or Bow 1 X 1
Dates: 2024 / 2025
Rifle or Bow 1 X 1
Dates: 2024 / 2025
THIS HUNT INCLUDES:
THIS HUNT EXCLUDES:
Day 01– Arrival/Islamabad Arrival at Islamabad / Karachi International Airport International flights normally arrive at am (early morning) after meeting at the international arrivals we shall directly go to domestic departure to catch our flight to Gilgit 1hr then continue to the village, stay overnight at the local guest house (very basic ) – heating will be available.
Day 02– Hunting area
Field staff shall be waiting for us and the locals from the village. Here shall be our first overnight in /Camp. (Guest House)
Day 03 – Move to the first camp
Today we shall scout in the surrounding mountains.
Day 04– Will reach in hunting area and start glassing/hunts.
Day 05 – Scout/hunt (camping)
Day 06 – Scout/hunt (camping)
Day 7 – Scout/hunt (camping)
Day 8 – Back to the village.
Day 9 – Back to gilgit/Islamabad
Day 10 – Fly to home/abroad
The outfitter has two different areas where these hunts are conducted. Depending on where the reports of the best trophy activity are found at the time, the domestic airport you will fly into may vary.
OBSERVERS:
EXTRA HUNTING DAYS:
RIFLE RENTAL:
SEASON:
The hunting season for Blue Sheep in Pakistan typically begins in November and runs through April. The best time to hunt is during the rutting season, which generally occurs from mid-November to late December. During this period, males become more active and visible, making it easier to locate larger trophies. Early-season hunts can be challenging due to higher elevations, while late-season hunts can be harsh because of extreme cold and snow conditions. Success rates are usually high regardless of the hunting period, but the conditions can greatly affect the comfort and accessibility of the hunt.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Hunters must fly into Islamabad, where they will be assisted by a local representative for rifle clearance, a relatively simple procedure. Afterward, hunters can take a domestic flight to Gilgit or Skardu, depending on the hunt’s starting point. From there, it’s a long but scenic drive to the hunting areas in Hunza Valley or the Gojal Vally. Travel times range from 8 to 12 hours on winding mountain roads, offering breathtaking views of the Karakoram range.
AREA:
In Pakistan, Blue Sheep (Bharal) inhabit the remote, rugged mountains of the Karakoram range, mainly between altitudes of 10,000 and 18,500 feet. The Khunjerab Villagers Organization (K.V.O) Controlled Community Hunting Area (CCHA) and the Shimshal CCHA in the Hunza Valley are the primary locations where Blue Sheep hunts are conducted. These areas are known for their steep, open, and grassy landscapes. Unlike ibex, Blue Sheep are typically found in more accessible, open areas, making them somewhat easier to approach.
WEATHER:
The weather in the hunting areas can be quite extreme, particularly in the winter months. November and December can see temperatures dropping as low as -10°F (-23°C) at night, with daytime highs around 20°F (-6°C). Snowfall is common in higher elevations, and hunters should be prepared for cold, harsh conditions, especially in the late season. The weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so layers and cold-weather gear are essential.
ACCOMMODATION:
Accommodation options vary by location, but hunters typically stay in local guesthouses or basic lodges in nearby villages. Some areas may offer more comfortable facilities with modern amenities, while more remote regions provide simpler accommodations. The local communities in the hunting areas are known for their hospitality, often offering personalized care to ensure a memorable stay.
DURATION of the HUNT:
Blue Sheep hunts are typically organized for 10 days, including travel time to and from the hunting areas. The actual hunting days are usually around 5-7 days, with success rates being high enough that hunts often conclude earlier. Pre-scouting by local guides is common, which helps reduce the time spent searching for animals.
ALTITUDE:
The Blue Sheep is typically found at elevations ranging from 10,000 to 18,500 feet (3,000 to 5,600 meters). Most hunts occur in the lower range of this altitude band during the winter when the sheep move down to graze. However, higher elevations may need to be reached depending on weather conditions and the time of year. The terrain in these areas is less rugged than ibex habitats but still requires good physical conditioning for hunters.
NOTES on BLUE SHEEP:
Discovered by Hodgson in 1833, the Bharal, or Blue Sheep, is named for its unique slate-grey coat, which sometimes has a blue sheen. The species is well-adapted to its high-altitude environment. Both male and female Blue Sheep have horns, but the males’ horns are much larger, curving backward like an inverted mustache, and can grow up to 80 cm (32 inches). Female horns are much smaller and straighter. Blue Sheep are typically more approachable than ibex, which makes them a relatively accessible trophy for hunters who venture into the Karakoram region.
HUNTING METHOD:
Hunting Blue Sheep is mainly done through spot-and-stalk methods. The hunting day begins before dawn, and hunters usually ride in 4×4 vehicles or trek on foot to reach the higher altitudes where the animals are found. Once a sheep is spotted, the hunt proceeds on foot, often requiring a stalk across open grassy terrain. The guides and local communities know the movement patterns of the sheep and help ensure that hunters have the best chance of finding a trophy.