ca. 12,000,000+
up to 2,200 lbs.
up to 40 inches
Spot and Stalk
Rifle, Archery
ca. 2 t0 3 days
Low
* Information may vary. Please refer to our terms and conditions page and/or call for the latest details on prices and conditions.
Feral yak hunting offers a distinct and memorable experience for hunters seeking a rare trophy. Descended from domesticated yaks, feral yaks (Bos grunniens) roam freely across the high-altitude regions of Central Asia, including Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Mongolia. These massive animals, with their impressive horns and striking appearance, are a unique prize for hunters interested in adding an extraordinary species to their collection.
Feral yaks are among the largest bovine species, with mature males weighing up to 2,200 pounds and standing over six feet tall at the shoulder. Their long, blackish-brown coats and distinctive horn shapes make them a striking trophy. While they may resemble domestic cattle in some ways, feral yaks’ size, horns, and wild nature set them apart, offering hunters a chance to pursue a truly remarkable animal.
Hunting feral yaks often takes place in stunning, remote landscapes, but the nature of these hunts is often more accessible compared to other mountain game species. Popular destinations include:
While feral yak hunting may not require the same level of endurance as pursuing other mountain species, it offers its own rewards. These hunts focus on the joy of being in remote, beautiful landscapes and harvesting a species steeped in cultural and historical significance. The ease of locating feral yaks makes this hunt ideal for hunters of varying physical abilities and experience levels.
For hunters, a feral yak represents not only a physical trophy but also a connection to the history and landscapes of Central Asia. Adding a feral yak to your collection is more than an accomplishment—it’s a story of adventure, culture, and the unique bond between humans and the wild.
The Hunting Consortium brings decades of experience to organizing premier feral yak hunts in Central Asia. With a deep understanding of the species, their behavior, and the best hunting grounds in Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Mongolia, we ensure a seamless and ethical hunting experience. Our partnerships with seasoned local guides and outfitters allow us to deliver personalized hunts that meet every client’s expectations.
The Hunting Consortium’s history of facilitating exceptional hunts is unmatched. In 1999, His Imperial Highness Prince Abdorreza Pahlavi of Iran harvested the world-record feral yak in China—a record that remains unbeaten to this day. His achievement underscored the significance of this hunt and highlighted the Hunting Consortium’s ability to offer unparalleled opportunities for hunters. Furthermore, our team has guided hunters to secure four feral yaks in the SCI Top 10, cementing our reputation as the go-to organization for world-class trophies.
Feral yak hunting offers an exciting opportunity for hunters of all experience levels. Unlike other challenging mountain hunts, feral yak hunting often involves spotting and harvesting mature bulls in relatively open terrain, making it more accessible while still offering a unique and fulfilling experience. These hunts are ideal for those seeking a rare and impressive trophy without the need for extreme physical exertion.
Our feral yak hunts take place in some of the most scenic and culturally rich regions of Central Asia:
These destinations provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable hunting adventure while showcasing the beauty of untouched wilderness.
The Hunting Consortium prioritizes ethical hunting practices that ensure the long-term health of feral yak populations and their habitats. All hunts are conducted under strict quotas and guidelines, supporting conservation efforts and the local communities that rely on hunting tourism. By participating in these hunts, hunters contribute to the preservation of these animals and the protection of Central Asia’s unique ecosystems.
From obtaining permits to managing travel and logistics, The Hunting Consortium handles every detail of your feral yak hunt. We work closely with each hunter to design a tailored hunting experience that matches their preferences and goals. With The Hunting Consortium, you’ll experience a smooth and rewarding journey from start to finish.
By choosing The Hunting Consortium, you are not just embarking on a hunt—you are joining a tradition of excellence, adventure, and conservation, ensuring an unforgettable experience and a place in hunting history.
Feral yaks are among the largest bovine species, with mature males reaching incredible proportions. Bulls can weigh up to 2,200 pounds (1,000 kilograms) and stand over six feet tall at the shoulder. Their massive frames are supported by short, powerful legs and broad hooves, allowing them to navigate rugged terrains with ease. In length, a full-grown bull can measure over 10.5 feet (3.2 meters), making them an awe-inspiring presence in the wild.
The horns of a feral yak are one of its most striking features, and they serve as a key measure for trophy hunters. Both males and females have horns, but those of the bulls are much larger. The horns curve outward, upward, and then inward, often exceeding 40 inches (101 cm) in length. With smooth surfaces and wide bases, these horns are a testament to the yak’s dominance and survival in the wild. Horn basal circumferences can range from 12 to 18.5 inches (30 to 47 cm), adding to their impressive appearance.
Feral yaks are perfectly adapted to their harsh, high-altitude environments, thanks to their dense, layered coats. Their long, blackish-brown hair forms a thick fringe along the belly and hindquarters, extending almost to the ground. This insulating coat protects them from freezing temperatures and biting winds, allowing them to thrive at elevations exceeding 20,000 feet (6,100 meters). Older bulls often display lighter patches of gray on their faces, giving them a regal, weathered appearance.
Feral yaks, while descended from domesticated stock, have adapted to living independently in the wild, making them larger and more robust than their domestic counterparts. Compared to wild yaks, which are protected due to their endangered status, feral yaks are smaller but still retain the powerful physique and impressive horns characteristic of the species.
Feral yaks are built to endure extreme conditions. Their large lungs and hearts allow them to thrive at high altitudes where oxygen levels are low, and their broad hooves provide stability on rocky, uneven terrain. Their diet, consisting of grasses, herbs, and lichens, enables them to survive in nutrient-scarce environments, making them a symbol of resilience in the wild.
Feral yaks’ physical characteristics, from their immense size to their dramatic horns and rugged adaptations, make them a standout species for hunters and a testament to the untamed wilderness of Central Asia.
Hunting feral yaks is a thrilling pursuit that combines traditional hunting techniques with the unique challenges of Central Asia’s remote landscapes. The most common methods include:
Feral yaks are found across some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Central Asia, each offering its own unique hunting experience:
The best time to hunt feral yaks is from August to October, when weather conditions are stable, and the animals are in their prime. During this period, feral yaks are more active and easier to spot in their high-altitude habitats. In winter, the animals descend to lower elevations, but harsh conditions make hunting more challenging.
Feral yak hunting is generally less physically demanding than other high-altitude hunts for species like wild sheep or ibex. While the terrain can be rugged and elevations high, the nature of feral yaks as relatively slow-moving and predictable animals makes them more accessible for hunters of varying fitness levels. This characteristic, combined with the expertise of local guides, ensures a rewarding experience even for less experienced hunters.
Despite their accessibility, feral yak hunts come with their own set of challenges:
Experienced local guides play a critical role in the success of a feral yak hunt. Their intimate knowledge of the terrain, yak behavior, and optimal stalking strategies ensures hunters are positioned for a clean and successful shot. Guides also handle field dressing and trophy care, allowing hunters to focus entirely on the experience.
Feral yak hunting blends the excitement of pursuing a world-class trophy with the breathtaking scenery of Central Asia’s remote wilderness. Whether on foot, horseback, or glassing from afar, the hunt is an unforgettable adventure tailored to the unique characteristics of this iconic species.
Feral yak hunting is often included as part of a larger hunting itinerary, typically alongside other sought-after species in Central Asia such as Marco Polo sheep, ibex, or other regional game. These hunts are usually completed in 2 to 3 days, making them an excellent add-on for hunters looking to maximize their experience without requiring a separate, standalone trip.
Although shorter in duration, feral yak hunts still require proper preparation to ensure success and comfort:
Add-on feral yak hunts often include comfortable accommodations close to the hunting area:
Adding a feral yak hunt to your Central Asia itinerary enhances your adventure with a unique trophy and the opportunity to explore more of the region’s breathtaking landscapes. With its short duration and accessible nature, this hunt is a rewarding complement to longer, more intensive hunts for iconic species like Marco Polo sheep or ibex.
The best time for feral yak hunting depends on the region and your overall hunting itinerary. In Tajikistan, feral yak hunts often align with Marco Polo sheep and ibex hunts, making October to December ideal for harvesting yaks in prime condition. In other areas, like Kyrgyzstan or Mongolia, the season may vary, but autumn months typically provide the best combination of weather and animal activity.
Feral yak hunts are generally completed within 2 to 3 days, often as an add-on to longer hunts. This makes them an efficient and rewarding addition to your Central Asian hunting adventure.
Feral yak hunting is relatively accessible compared to other high-altitude species. While some hiking over uneven terrain is required, the hunt is less physically demanding, especially when spot-and-stalk methods or horseback travel are employed.
Essential gear includes:
Yes, feral yak hunting is often paired with Marco Polo sheep or ibex hunts, particularly in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. This makes it an excellent choice for hunters seeking multiple trophies in one trip.
Feral yak hunting supports local conservation efforts by funding anti-poaching initiatives, habitat preservation, and wildlife management programs. Additionally, hunting generates income for rural communities, fostering sustainable practices that benefit both wildlife and local residents.
Accommodations are typically base camps or traditional yurts, offering warmth, comfort, and cultural immersion. These setups are conveniently located near hunting areas to minimize travel and maximize time in the field.
Feral yak hunts are ideal for hunters looking to enhance their Central Asian experience. They offer the chance to harvest a massive trophy in a stunning landscape while complementing other hunts. Their short duration and accessible nature make them a convenient and rewarding addition to any adventure.
