Summary
Fallow Deer hunting in South Africa is widespread in the Eastern Cape, particularly in the Bedford region.
A fascinating trophy animal to hunt primarily during the rut, when stags can be heard calling, and one can detect and stalk stags by the sound of crashing antlers.
Hunting fallow deer in South Africa is similar to hunting whitetail deer in North America, especially in terms of techniques and the importance of the rut for trophy opportunities.
Many hunters experienced in hunting whitetail deer will find the approach to shoot fallow deer familiar.
There are no seasonal restrictions on trophy Fallow Deer hunting in South Africa.
Fallow Deer on all hunting safaris year-round.
Table of Contents
Habitat and Distribution of Fallow Deer in South Africa
Fallow deer are well established across South Africa, with the Eastern Cape and Free State provinces being prime regions for hunters seeking this unique deer species. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in a variety of habitats, from open grassland and rolling pastures to dense bushveld and rugged mountainous areas. In the Eastern Cape, fallow deer are often found along game trails that wind through a patchwork of grasslands and forests, making the region especially attractive for hunting safaris.
These deer are highly versatile and can make the most of Africa’s diverse landscapes. They are frequently seen grazing in open grassland or seeking cover in thicker vegetation, which provides both food and protection from predators. Mountainous areas offer additional shelter and vantage points, while pastures and food plots attract herds looking for abundant forage. This wide range of suitable habitats has contributed to the fallow deer’s success and popularity among hunters in South Africa. Whether you’re stalking stags in the Eastern Cape’s hills or tracking herds in the Free State, the varied terrain ensures an exciting and challenging hunt for every enthusiast.
When Can You Hunt Fallow Deer?
One of the advantages of hunting fallow deer in South Africa is the absence of seasonal restrictions, allowing hunters to plan their safari at any time of year. However, the most exciting and productive period to hunt fallow deer is during the rut, which typically runs from March through June. During these months, stags become highly active and vocal as they compete for mating rights, making them easier to locate and stalk. The early part of the rut is especially favorable, as stags are more focused on mating and less wary of hunters.
Understanding the fallow deer’s antler cycle is also important for planning your hunt. Stags lose their antlers between late September and October, with new growth starting almost immediately as spring arrives. For those seeking a trophy with impressive antlers, timing your hunt before the stags shed is essential. By targeting the rut, hunters can take advantage of increased deer activity and the unique behaviors associated with mating season, ensuring a memorable and rewarding hunting experience in Africa’s diverse landscapes.
Fallow Deer Trophy Fees in the East Cape South Africa – 2025
The average price of a fallow deer is around $950. Fallow Deer can be added to any of our African safari hunts packages.
Our 2025 Fallow Deer price is $950
The Fallow Deer trophy hunting package includes a licensed hunting guide and a hunting license, and all permits.
Fallow Deer Hunting in South Africa
Shot placement for fallow deer huntingFor the most effective and humane kill, the ideal shot placement is about one third of the way up from the bottom of the shoulder, following a line directly up the front leg.
Hunters should aim to take a shot directly on the shoulder or just above the front leg to ensure the bullet penetrates the vital organs. Proper shot placement and the right caliber are essential when you shoot fallow deer.
Your fallow deer trophy should have an average shoulder height of around 36 inches and weigh about 140 pounds.
The British introduced Fallow Deer from Europe to South Africa in 1869. Since then, numbers have increased, and many have been relocated to various regions throughout South Africa.
A fascinating animal to hunt, especially during the rut, when stags can be heard calling, and one can detect and stalk stags by the sound of crashing antlers.
During the rut, the Deer fear of humans and become obsessed with mating – hunting during this time can be one of the most exciting hunts.
The rut for fallow Deer takes place from March – to June, and hunters looking at hunting Fallow Deer in the rut must be advised: the earlier in the rut, the better.
Stags begin shedding their antlers towards the end of September into October, with regrowth starting immediately in Spring.
Fallow Deer stag are widespread in the Eastern Cape, particularly in the Bedford region. Fallow Deer are also common in the Free State,
Most fallow Deer are shot while hunting other trophies such as kudu, nyala, buffalo, and springbok or blesbok. Hunting prices are very reasonable.
Interesting facts About Hunting Fallow Deer
- These deer are mostly from the Mediterranean regions of southern Europe. Because of hundreds of years of transporting and selling, their exact origins are still unknown.
- Because of the ease of transportation, they are the most widespread exotic deer in the world.
- Fallow deer have a very pronounced Adams apple. If you can spot the adams apple, it is most likely a fallow deer!
- There are three color variations of fallow: white, tan with white spots, and brownish, almost to the point of being black. You’ll often see spots on a light brown coat, but the coloration is highly varied.
- Up to 14 variations occur from white through shades of red-brown to dark brown, and some have spotted markings.
- The color fallow deer are born will be the color they will be for life.
- They have a very good sense of smell but excellent vision.
- Fallow deer are friendly and compatible with other species, except for the rut. Locals hunt fallows for their meat.
- Fallow deer have a history with George Washington. He was one of the earliest raisers of “English Deer.”
- Bucks do not eat during the rutting season.
- Fallow Deer hunting areas are widespread in Eastern Cape, South Africa, with high animal numbers. Male antlers are impressive but not as big as those in certain areas in New Zealand.
Trophy Judgement and Rifle Caliber for Deer in the Rut
Deer hunting in South Africa is similar to deer hunting in the United States – active during the early morning and late afternoon hours. Fallow deer are most active during these times, making them ideal for hunters to plan their outings.
Set up along game trails or near food plots and pastures where he will likely be grazing.
Your favorite deer rifle will be more than adequate in taking fallow Deer.
For those hunters who wish to avoid going through the red tape of bringing a rifle into South Africa, Nick Bowker has 300 Magnums fitted with suppressors.
The rifles are mounted with Swarovski tactical scopes. We have hand-loaded Hornady ELD-X ammunition.
This setup up including ammunition, is available as part of all hunting packages free of charge.
A medium-sized deer with more color variations than any other. Color ranges from white to chocolate brown/black.
Most are rich brown with white spots; the coat becomes much thicker and rougher in winter, turning darker.
The underparts are lighter in color than white.
Males have a prominent Adam’s apple.
South African Fallow Deer and Axis Deer are the only Deer species available on a plains game hunt.
The Bedford area has a sizable population.
The Difference between a Male and Female Fallow Deer
Males or bucks are larger than females. Male fallow Deer carry antlers while females do not.
About the Fallow Deer for Hunters
Adult bucks are 55 – 63 inches long, 33 – 40 inches in shoulder height, and typically 130 – 180 pounds in weight; does are 51 – 59 inches long, 30 – 33 inches in shoulder height, and 66 – 110 pounds in weight.
Fawns are born in Spring. Their lifespan is around 12 – 16 years.
Agile and fast in case of danger, fallow Deer can run at a maximum speed of 30 mph over short distances.
Fallow Deer can also make jumps up to 5.8-foot-high and up to 17 feet in length.
They have six types of vocalizations:
- Barking, which is an explosive alarm call used by females;
- Bleating, which is produced by females during parturition or with their young;
- Mewing, given by any deer during submission postures;
- Peeping, produced by fawns in distress or contacting their mothers;
- Wailing, an intense distress sound by a fawn older than two days;
- Growling, produced by rutting males.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hunt a Fallow Deer in South Africa?
Trophy fees as a standalone Fallow Deer hunt are between $600 – $900.
Daily rates vary between $250 and $500 per day.
Included in the Fallow Deer trophy fee is a licensed guide. As well as a hunting license and all permits.
How to hunt Fallow Deer?
During the rut, the Deer lose all fear of humans and become obsessed with mating – hunting during this time can be one of the most exciting hunts.
Where do you shoot a Fallow Deer?
Shot placement must be in the bottom third of the animal directly above the front shoulder. This will ensure a heart or lung shot. Avoid head and neck shots, which are high-risk.
When to hunt Fallow Deer in South Africa?
The rut for Fallow Deer takes place from March – June, and hunters looking at hunting Fallow Deer in the rut must be advised: the earlier in the rut, the better.
Stags lose their antlers towards the end of September into October, with regrowth starting almost immediately in Spring. Fallow deer males shed their antlers annually during early spring, and regrowth is complete by October or November. After the rut, stags leave the herd to form bachelor groups, and this behavior coincides with the antler shedding period
Seasonal Restrictions for Fallow Deer Hunts
When can you hunt Fallow Deer ?
There are no seasonal restrictions on trophy Fallow Deer hunting in the Eastern Cape of South Africa.
What Caliber is Recommended for Fallow Deer Hunts?
We recommend the flat shooting 300 Winchester or 7mm magnums with high-quality tactical scopes and a suppressor.
Fallow Deer Animals in Pictures
