Adriatic Mouflon Hunt in Croatia

Why I travelled to Croatia

Croatia has flourished since the Balkan conflict of the 1990s, becoming both a tourist hotspot and one of Europe’s premier hunting destinations.

I was drawn here not only by the rich variety of game but also by the rugged beauty of the Adriatic coastline. Limestone cliffs, scrubland and the glistening sea provide a unique backdrop for mouflon hunting.

With good roads and flights into Zadar, it’s also one of the most accessible Balkan destinations for hunters.

Hunting mouflon on the Adriatic coast

Around 450 mouflon roam this 42km stretch of coast. Introduced from Sardinia in the 1970s, they have adapted remarkably well.

These hardy sheep can even drink seawater and survive on very little food. Today, careful management allows about 25 rams to be taken each year.

Knowing that I was part of this conservation effort gave the hunt extra meaning.

Setting out at first light

After a restless night’s travel, I joined my host Tomo Svetic of Artemis Hunting. He steered his 4×4 along the coastal roads as dawn broke.

We met our guides, Davor and his son Mate, for strong Turkish coffee before setting out. The plan was simple: move between vantage points, glass the terrain and stay patient.

The terrain was brutal. Sharp volcanic rock shredded boots and trousers. Davor grinned and told me he burns through a pair of boots every season.

Mouflon eyesight is phenomenal, so stealth and silence were critical.

My first shot – a miss at 424m

Eventually, Mate spotted a ram grazing across a steep valley. Davor ranged him at 424m.

I lay awkwardly on the rocks, steadied my Sauer 404 in .300 Win Mag, and squeezed the trigger. The shot rang out, but the ram didn’t flinch. No blood, no reaction.

I’d missed. My heart sank. As Davor reminded me: “Missing is the second-best shot.” It was a bitter pill, but at least there was no wounded animal.

Redemption at 350m

An hour later, the group reappeared. This time they were at 350m. I had more time to settle, adjust my Leica Magnus scope, and calm my breathing.

When the ram paused broadside, I fired. This time I saw the bullet strike home. The mouflon staggered and dropped cleanly.

Relief washed over me. The second shot had done the job.

More than just a trophy

The hunt didn’t end with a photo. The carcass was carefully butchered, with the meat destined for local dishes and charcuterie. Nothing went to waste.

That evening, I joined local hunters for a feast of cheese, ham, beer and wine. As we celebrated, I reflected on the day.

The miss had bruised my pride, but the second shot restored it. I left Croatia reminded that the wild rewards patience over haste.

Final Thoughts

Hunting mouflon on the Adriatic coast tested me in ways I didn’t expect. The landscape was harsh, the distances daunting, and the animals incredibly sharp-eyed.

But when I finally connected, it was one of the most satisfying hunts I’ve ever experienced.