Iran

Iran has fascinated hunters for generations and was a favorite destination for traveling sportsmen, prior to the Islamic Revolution in that country. It is one of the most unusual hunting destinations available and has one of the best selections of Asian game species on the continent. The Hunting Consortium Ltd. and our partners have been able to secure the use of the best hunting reserves and restrict access to some of them, protecting the experience and chances for success of our clients. Trophy quality has never been better.

Iran boasts seven (7) wild sheep (Arak sheep, Alborz Red sheep, Armenian mouflon, Esfahan mouflon, Kerman sheep, Transcaspian urial, Shiraz mouflon, and Laristan mouflon) – more than any other country outside of China. It also has two types of ibex (Persian ibex and Persian Desert ibex). Iran has long been a favored destination for the world’s mountain hunters. The country also offers Persian gazelle, wolves, and giant wild boars. Mixed bag hunts, including wing shooting for snipe, woodcock, and waterfowl can be arranged in several areas. Iran also has a vast population of Maral stags (Mideastern red deer), Mideastern brown bear, Asian leopard, cheetah, and the rare Persian fallow deer. Maral stags, Persian fallow deer, and Mideastern brown bear may be hunted by special permit only. The Asian leopard and cheetah are protected.

The infrastructure in Iran is excellent. An interstate highway network links all regions and paved roads reach most of the game reserves. Linking separate hunts in various parts of the country into multiple venue shikars, is easy and routine, as most of our clients have chosen to do so. Comfortable hunting lodges, or cabins are available in most areas. Highly trained game rangers assist professional hunters in guiding foreign clients.

The general hunting season runs from September through the end of February, but some reserves extend the season into March, on a request basis. The best time to hunt most species in from October through December – but January and early February can also be good. Separate hunting permits are required for each wildlife refuge or reserve, each valid for a maximum of 5 days. These can be arranged in sequence, allowing several reserves to be hunted in the same shikar.

Primary Species List:

• Persian Ibex
• Persian Desert Ibex
• Arak Sheep
• Alborz Red Sheep
• Armenian Mouflon
• Esfahan Mouflon
• Kerman Sheep
• Transcaspian Urial
• Shiraz Mouflon
• Laristan Mouflon
• Persian Goitered Gazelle
• Kennion Gazelle
• Wild Boar

Special Permit Species:

• Maral Stag
• Roe deer
• Mid Eastern Brown Bear
• Persian Fallow Deer
• Asian Leopard