Red Stag Hunting Techniques
Red Stag Hunting in Argentina
Red stag hunting is very popular in Argentina, especially in the brush of Pampa and the mountains of Patagonia. Red stag are one of the largest species of deer, so they provide a substantial amount of meat. Red stag hunting has been a hunter's favorite for many decades. You can learn more about this in our article titled “The History of Red Stag Hunting in Argentina”. Before your hunt, it is important to understand the terrain you will be dealing with. There are different hunting techniques associated with different landscapes or weather conditions, so it is best to do some research ahead of time and arrive prepared. Read on to learn all the inside tips and tricks that experts use for the most successful red stag hunts.
Choosing a Gun & Caliber
Red stags typically weigh about 440 pounds on average as an adult and are hunted from a distance of 50 to 200 yards. This is considered big game hunting and close range hunting. This combination leaves plenty of great rifle options to choose from. Some of the most highly recommended are the .300 Winchester Magnum, 7mm Remington Magnum, .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, 30-06 Springfield, .270 Winchester. You can learn more details about each of these guns in our article titled “Best Guns & Caliber to Hunt Red Stag”.
Red Stag Hunting Techniques
Carrying
Although it's best to stay as still as possible and keep motion to a minimum, there will be times when it is necessary to move around, like when bush stalking. So, to decrease the chances of being spotted by a red stag, carry your rifle instead of having it slung over your shoulder. Slinging it over the shoulder can cause the weapon to swing as you walk, causing motion and noise that could have otherwise been avoided.
Aiming
The ideal shot placement for a red stag is slightly below half way between the top of the shoulder and the bottom of the chest. This is where the heart and lungs are located. This spot can also be described as right behind the elbow of the front leg. It is advised not to take head shots, as this makes for a small target with a greater chance of error. Error can result in missing the target completely or only injuring the stag and causing suffering.
Shooting
Since red stags have exceptional hearing, try to be as quiet as possible by avoiding hasty shots. Do not be afraid to take time planning and lining up your shot once a stag comes into range. If you are careful about not getting spotted, it will likely stick around long enough for you to take a few extra seconds to think rather than blindly shooting and hoping for the best. If you shoot too soon and miss, the deer will take off very quickly and you will have missed your chance. While lining up your shot and pulling the trigger, remain balanced in a steady position.
Terrain-Specific Techniques
Successful red stag hunting techniques can vary considerably depending on the terrain. A method that works well in the open mountains of Patagonia may be less effective in the thick brush of La Pampa.
La Pampa Brush
Red stag hunts in La Pampa often take place among caldén trees, grasslands, scrub and patches of thick brush. Visibility can change quickly. One moment, a hunter may be looking across an open clearing, while the next section of terrain may provide only a few narrow shooting lanes.
Once the distance begins to close, patience becomes especially important. Moving too quickly through dry leaves, branches or thorny vegetation can alert the stag or the hinds around him. A better approach is to take a few deliberate steps, stop and listen before moving again.
Patagonia Mountains
Red stag hunting in Patagonia commonly involves open slopes, mountains, rocky ridges, forested canyons and wide areas that can be observed from a distance.Wind and thermal currents are major considerations in mountain country. As the sun warms a slope, air will often begin moving uphill. When the terrain cools, the air may begin flowing downhill. These patterns can change because of clouds, shade, vegetation, canyons and local weather conditions.
For that reason, hunters should continue checking the wind throughout the stalk. A route that appeared safe early in the morning may become risky once the sun reaches the slope and the thermal direction changes.
Patagonia’s open terrain allows for more time to evaluate a stag, watch the surrounding hinds and choose a stable shooting position. However, hunters must be cautious because movement is easier to detect in open country.
Tips for Red Stag Hunting
The easiest way to set yourself up for a success hunt is to be out there during the stag’s feeding time, which is early morning or late afternoon. Also, the best time of the year to hunt red stag is during their rutting season which approximately occurs from the beginning of March through the end of April. Although the red stag hunting season runs from March to July, during the months of March and April the stags are roaring, which is the most exciting time to hunt this trophy.
The rutting season or roaring time is also called “brama” in Argentina. During the rutting season, stags are exceptionally active since females, or hinds, come into estrus. Another important thing to keep in mind is that red stags are very aware of their surroundings with their sigh, smell, and hearing all being strong. Because of this, it is a good idea to wear camouflage of earth tones or plain earth toned clothing and to take cover if possible. Another tip is to remain patient. You will likely have several opportunities during your hunt to see red stag.
Stag hunting, along with many other varieties of hunting, involves a lot of waiting. Nature can be therapeutic. Use your time spent waiting to relax and find peace. If you start getting antsy and move around too much or change your location in hopes of more red stag activity, you will risk scaring away the deer and minimize your chances of getting a shot.
Book Your Red Stag Hunting Experience with South American Adventure Safari
Red stag hunting is truly an amazing experience that all avid hunters should get to have. By considering trying some of the tips discussed in this article, you are already in a great position for success. SAAS will set you up with all the very best hunting spots in Argentina to make your red stag hunting dream a reality. South American Adventure Safari will coordinate an unforgettable, stress-free trip that is sure to leave you with great memories and a stocked up freezer.