Fallow deer hunting in South Africa takes place mainly in the Free State and East Cape. Due to the agreeable climate to fallow deer in these hunting areas, South African fallow deer achieve tremendous trophy quality when compared to its native country. Fallow deer have been in South Africa for so long they can almost be accepted as native animals.

We have not started using croaking as a hunting method for hunting fallow deer in South Africa yet. When we hear the roar (or rutting call) of a fallow deer (or red stag in South Africa) we know we are set for hunting. Here are a few ideas we have when hunting fallow deer in South Africa:

Best recommended caliber for fallow deer hunting – 243, 6 mm, 30-06, 7mm (all), 300 WSM, 300 WM, 308 or any other comparable caliber

Shot placement when hunting fallow deer – behind the shoulder one third of the way up from the start of the chest.

What is the cost to hunt fallow deer in South Africa – for the 2013 / 2014 season the cost for hunting fallow deer is US$ 1 000-00.

Average shooting distance is 100 – 180 yards.

Hints and tips when rifle hunting fallow deer: fallow deer like to hole up in tall grass and lay in wait till slightly before being stepped on. When they feel in too much danger they will take off at a dead run and mostly stop after about 100 – 180 yards. It is at that time that the hunter should be ready to take the shot. 

What is the best time of year to hunt fallow deer in South Africa on your Africa hunting safari:

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

Bow hunting information for bowhunting fallow deer

Recommended draw weight to bow hunt fallow deer – Any increment greater than minimum draw mass may be used. Minimum draw weight of 55 lbs is recommended.

Shot placement when bowhunting fallow deer – Rule of thumb applies: right behind the shoulder one third of the way up from the start of the chest.

The most common form of bowhunting fallow deer is from a well-constructed hide at a water source. Walk-and-stalk is possible with lots of patience. What is the cost to bow hunt fallow deer in South Africa – for the 2013 / 2014 season the cost to bow hunt fallow deer is US$ 1 000-00.

What is the best time of year to bow hunt fallow deer in South Africa during your Africa bow hunting safari:

 

 

 

Fallow deer description:

Color of the hide varies from dark black-brown to cream white. There are four different color variations. A pertinent white stripe occurs over the length of the animal. A general characteristic is a bright cream white dot above the eye banks. The body hair thickens during the winter to withstand cold conditions.

Fallow deer habitat:

It has adapted successfully in South Africa to a number of habitats since it’s introduction by the British in the 1860’s. It is not particular about its habitat and does well in agricultural areas, forestry areas, mountains and grass plains. 

Fallow deer reproduction:

A mature male (stag) will gather 10 – 20 females (hinds) and stay with them in his territory for the duration of the rut that lasts for 3 – 4 weeks. 

General fallow deer facts:

Fallow deer gestation period – 230 days in summer (late November in South Africa) with twins making up 2,5% of the birth rate.

Fallow deer shoulder height: stags 36” – 38” and hinds 28” – 32”

Fallow deer weight – stags 140 lbs to 240 lbs and hinds: 80 lbs – 120 lbs

Antlers: Only the stags have antlers that are shed after the breeding season.