Red Deer Hunting in Croatia

Upon arrival in Croatia you will be greeted at the airport in Zagreb and transferred to Slavonia. The drive is comfortable and passes through rolling countryside, farmland, and small villages, giving you the first impression of this unique region.

When we reach the lodge, we unpack and get settled into the rooms. Afterwards, we head to the shooting range to test the rifles, normally at 100–200 meters. This step ensures that the optics are perfectly set and the hunter is confident with the rifle before the hunt begins. It also allows time to discuss the local terrain, stalking strategies, and the use of calls during the rut.

In the evening, we gather for dinner featuring traditional Slavonian cuisine – game stews, freshwater fish, spicy sausages, and excellent regional wines. Around the table we review the hunting plan in detail, exchange experiences, and prepare for the first hunting day. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, creating the perfect start to the adventure.

The hunt starts early in the morning. Each hunter is accompanied by an experienced guide. Red deer hunting here is done mainly by stalking and calling. During the rut, hunting often takes place not only at dawn and dusk, but throughout the day, since stags remain very active and are quick to respond to calls.

The terrain is a mixture of fields, meadows, and forest edges – classic red deer habitat that makes for exciting stalks and dynamic hunting. Shooting distances are usually 60–150 meters, but hunters should be ready for quick shots, as stags can appear suddenly and move quickly.

Every day is different, but during the rut there is always the chance of calling in an older, more dominant stag, which makes the experience both challenging and rewarding.

Once the hunt is successfully completed, the focus shifts to celebrating the experience and enjoying everything Croatia has to offer. Back at the lodge, trophies are prepared for transport, while the group enjoys traditional meals, local wine, and stories from the hunt.

If the hunter wishes to take the trophy back immediately, all the necessary papers and documentation for transport will be provided. For European hunters, CITES is not required, and the trophy certificate can be issued a few hours after the hunt is completed (once the points are evaluated according to CIC, so it is clear how much remains to be paid). Alternatively, the hunter may choose to have the trophy sent to our taxidermist. Once the euro mount or taxidermy is completed, the finished trophy can be shipped directly to the hunter’s address. If the trophy is being exported to another country, CITES may be required for certain species. This permit can take up to two months to obtain, after which the trophy will be sent directly to the hunter’s address.

After leaving the hunting ground, most hunters choose to spend one or two extra days in Zagreb, since the capital is nearby and easy to reach.

Zagreb: Croatia’s capital has a Central European charm with historic streets, cozy cafés, and excellent restaurants. It is perfect for sightseeing, wine tasting, or a relaxed evening in the old town.

Some hunters also decide to extend the trip and visit the coast. Split is easily reached from Zagreb – just a short 40-minute flight, or about a 3.5-hour drive on the highway. The drive itself is beautiful, passing through rolling hills and along the impressive Velebit mountain range, where we also organize hunts for mouflon, chamois, and brown bear. Split offers a completely different atmosphere with the Adriatic Sea, lively nightlife, and the famous Diocletian’s Palace. While the main focus is Slavonia and Zagreb, combining the hunt with a few days by the sea makes the experience even more memorable.