Croatia Island Hunt

Accessible only by boat, the island of Plavnik is one of the most attractive hunting areas in Croatia. Located between Krk and Cres, this beautiful island encompasses 3,000 acres of ideal habitat for Fallow Deer, Feral Goats and Wild Boar. Additionally, Plavnik Island is one of the only places in the world where you can hunt for Dalmatian Wild Sheep rams. Experience the coastal karst, covered with oak, Holm oak, and juniper of the Dalmation Coast.

You can expect early mornings with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, followed by a boat ride to Plavnik Island. You’ll spend the day stalking fallow deer, European boar, Dalmatian wild sheep, and feral goats. Lunch is packed and enjoyed in the field. Afternoons can be spent continuing the hunt or heading back to the hotel for some rest. Evenings are for relaxation, sharing stories, and enjoying a local meal.

Guiding is 1:1, and they are experienced hunters who know the island well, ensuring you have the best chance of success. They’re there to help you navigate the terrain and spot game, but also to make sure you enjoy the experience. They use high-end spotting scopes and binoculars, (rifles are available to rent). Once an animal is taken, a call is made and men come out with a stretcher to pack the animal back to the lodge for gutting and caping.

There are no language issues at all. The guides speak 5 languages (English, German, Italian, Spanish and Serbo-Croatian), and the Outfitter speaks perfect English.

You will stay in a B&B on the water that was built in 1577! It’s not luxury, but it’s clean and comfortable. You will eat local food for breakfast and dinner, but lunch is not included. We recommend you buy fresh bread, meat and cheese at the local shop with your guide on the way to the hunt area. Lunch will be a break on hill.

There is an old stone house where shepherds used to live. Here  you can relax, freshen up and enjoy the beautiful views of Krk and Cres islands. Nearby are the ruins of a small church, and frequent guests are the Griffon vultures!

The weather can vary, so be prepared for a range of conditions. Layers are key, as mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. Rain is always a possibility, so pack accordingly.

Your outfitter will provide a gear list when you book your hunt. Make sure your gear is in good working order before you arrive. Also, don’t underestimate the terrain—good boots are a must. If you are in fairly good shape, you won’t have a problem hunting Plavnik Island in Croatia.

Hunting season in Croatia generally runs year-round, but it’s species-dependent. Make sure to check the specific dates for the game you’re after. *Fallow deer hunting is September through January.

Fly into the Zagreb airport in Croatia and make your way to the hotel or bed and breakfast where you’ll be staying (The outfitter will pick you up for a small fee or you can rent a car). From there, daily boat rides will take you to Plavnik Island for the hunt. It’s a straightforward trip, but be sure to have your travel documents in order.

Success rates are high, but as with any hunt, there are no guarantees. The potential for trophy quality is pretty decent as well, with fallow deer and European boar being the highlights.

Dalmatian sheep are native to the Dalmation Islands off the Croatian coast. For centuries they were used domestically by peasants, but in the 18th Century, most of the people left the islands to find jobs on the mainland. Since that time these sheep have gone back to the wild and are extremely wary. This interesting and exotic wild sheep specie lives on the island of Plavnik for the past 500 years. Currently scientists only recognize the islands of Dugi Otok and Otok Plavnik (this island) as having pure Dalmatian Wild Sheep populations. SCI follows the scientific ruling when accepting entries for this species. *From SCI Online Record Book.

The Romans were the first to bring fallow deer to the Adriatic area over 1,000 years ago and they have flourished since then. The trophy quality on this hunt is excellent to good. Bronze-Gold medal fallow bucks are possible using the International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC) rating system. There is no limit on trophy size.

This is a perfect summer family holiday/hunt combo! Tours and a guide/shuttle can be provided if plans are made ahead of time.

Yes, bring some local currency to use while in rural areas.

Pricing varies depending on options and availability. It’s always best to check the trip overview or talk to your consultant directly.

Absolutely. We strongly recommend it. Click here to get a free quote and learn more.