From Hunter to Guide: A Thrilling Journey in Kyrgyzstan

Deep within every hunter resides an almost insatiable desire to test their limits against the unyielding elements, challenging terrain, and cunning game animals. Few places on Earth can rival the intensity of such an experience like Kyrgyzstan, where the pursuit of a hunt requires great fortitude and resilience.

The Backstory of the Hunt

Huntourage was founded on the principles of integrity, honesty, and quality, values that remain at the core of every aspect of the organization. When a dedicated Huntourage client booked a Marco Polo and Mid-Asan Ibex combo adventure, being a control freak I knew there was no other option in mind but to head out to the land of endless beauty, Kyrgyzstan, and ensure the hunt would live up to their expectations. 

What better way to truly understand the finer details of a hunt than to do it yourself? Opting for an Ibex hunt, accompanied by professional videographer Lazar, we set out on a thrilling journey to Kyrgyzstan.

It's Go Time!

Embarking on such an expedition entails significant logistical complexities, and the journey through Dubai en route to Kyrgyzstan became an opportunity to connect with friends and family, sharing stories and building excitement before heading to the airport for the first leg of the journey to Bishkek.

Wheels touched down in the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, at 04:30 and we were instantly met with the first hurdle of our trip as Lazar’s border pass was not yet ready, so the first night was spent at a hotel in Bishkek. Despite the initial setback, the anticipation grew as three Slovakian hunters joined the expedition, setting the stage for the adventure.

The Journey to Hunting Camp

Navigating through the diverse landscapes of Kyrgyzstan, from the city of Naryn to the hunting camp nestled at over 3,500 meters above sea level, the expedition encountered both challenges and excitement. A missed opportunity by one of the hunters on a large Ibex heightened everybody's anticipation as we approached the camp against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain scenery.

With the sun sitting low on the horizon, we pulled into the hunting camp and at just over 3,500m above sea level, for a group of hunters it was the ideal setup. It was official, the hunt had begun.

The Hunt Begins:

When navigating the challenging terrain of the mountains, maintaining optimal energy levels is paramount. The unpredictable duration of hunts and the physical demands of pursuing mountain-dwelling creatures necessitate peak physical performance.

Our first morning commenced with a robust breakfast at 07:00, setting the tone for the day's endeavors. We transitioned to a makeshift shooting range, a crucial step to calibrate our rifles and acclimate to the bullet performance at the elevated altitudes we were venturing into.

Due to the impromptu nature of the trip, I couldn't arrange for the importation of my trusted rifle. Instead, I relied on the guide's Sako A7 chambered in 7mm Rem Mag, complemented by a Nightforce NX5 5.5-22x56 scope. While it's ideal to bring one's rifle, familiarizing oneself with it up to +/-500 yards is crucial for optimal performance under various conditions. Despite the constraints, I adapted and made the best of the available equipment.

Fortunately, I wasn't without my essential ballistics gear. My decision to pack the Kestrel 5700 Elite and Sig Sauer Kilo 3000 BDXs proved wise. After inputting data for the Hornady 162-grain SSTs, I fired off a few rounds, achieving a tidy grouping slightly high at 100 meters, aligning with the rifle's zero at 200 meters.

The majestic Tian Shan Mountains, known as the Mountains of Heaven, stretched before us. Mounted on horses loaded with supplies, the towering peaks beckoned, sparking a surge of optimism within me. The sight of a group of Marco Polo ewes near camp felt like a promising omen, reinforcing the belief that luck was on our side.

Navigating kilometers of paths at the mountain's base, we ascended steep slopes, marveling at the strength and adaptability of the Kyrgyz horses. Comfort in prolonged horseback riding proved equally crucial for a hunter in this rugged environment.

As we neared the summit, we dismounted, allowing the horses to rest while we engaged in the meticulous task of glassing the distant terrain. Mamish, our head guide, ascended a nearby ridge, while Ayzim remained with us, utilizing the vantage point for optimal visibility.

The expertise of seasoned eyes proved invaluable as Ayzim quickly spotted a group of Ibex lying about 2.5km away, just beneath the towering peak. Meanwhile, Mamish identified a younger Ibex group that lacked the signs of a mature billy.

After thorough deliberation and scrutiny through our optics, we opted to pursue the group identified by Ayzim. With daylight waning, a decision was made to regroup in the morning, poised for the challenging pursuit of the elusive Ibex.

They are here!

We woke the next morning with our bodies aching and tired from the over 40km of horse riding we had done the previous day. However, the prospect of pursuing a big Ibex outweighed our discomfort, and without a second thought, we were back on the horses just after 07:30.

A few hours later, we found ourselves perched on the top of a ridge, diligently scanning the landscape for the group of Ibex we had spotted the day before. Mamish swiftly located them, ironically positioned on the side of the mountain where we had been set up previously.

Mamish suggested that there were at least two shooters within the group. The richness of wildlife in the Tian Shan Mountains was evident, as beneath the focused Ibex stood four magnificent Marco Polo rams.

Internally smiling, I couldn't help but appreciate the extraordinary setting. Observing Marco Polos through the spotting scope while filming Ibex with my camera, I knew our client would have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in November.

After a brief discussion with Mamish, we devised a plan to maximize our chances of getting close to the Ibex and positioning ourselves for a shot.

The plan involved riding horses, concealing them behind a ridge, and then stealthily advancing to a rock approximately 350-400 meters from the Ibex. However, plans in hunting often require adaptability, and when a small Ibex was spotted above the main herd, potentially sounding the alarm, adjustments became necessary.

The question arose, "Can you shoot at running Ibex?" Drawing on my wing-shooting experience, I replied, "I can only do my best". This opportunity was not one to be missed.

With the plan recalibrated, Ayzim rode his horse around the base of the ridge to drive the Ibex in our direction. Anticipating their uphill escape path, I set up the rifle on a peak with an optimal vantage point.

Hunting success hinges on preparation before the shot. I began glassing and measuring distances from distinctive rocks and features, ready for any scenario.

Positioned, ready, confident, and excited, the moment had arrived. Ayzim radioed Mamish, informing him that the herd of Ibex was approaching. Although invisible at the moment, tension and anticipation engulfed us all.

A brief moment of confusion occurred when Ayzim temporarily lost sight of the herd. Panic set in, but relief washed over us as Raj exclaimed, "They are here!" Instantly, I locked onto them with my optics.

Ibex in the Crosshairs

It's challenging to convey the profound emotion that stirs within a hunter lying prone in the Tien Shan mountains, 4,200 meters above sea level, watching a herd of Ibex running straight toward you. It's an indescribable experience, etched deep into my memory bank.

The initial awe and admiration for these remarkable creatures swiftly morphed into panic and anxiety as the entire herd came to a standstill just behind a small hill – frozen, legs stiff, heads up, eyes frantically scanning, sensing something amiss. It felt like an eternity, and none of us dared to move.

A sigh of relief escaped as the herd resumed its advance toward us.

“Don’t move, don’t shoot!” were Mamish's whispered instructions as the herd closed the distance to around 50 meters. Although an extraordinary sight, a rare opportunity for any hunter, I had to remain still.

Even in the proximity of the Ibex, Mamish continued to caution, “Don’t shoot!” His rationale was strategic – let the Ibex pass to our right. If spooked, they'd run further up the hill, providing more firing opportunities. To our left, they could easily vanish down the mountain into a deep valley or distant slope.

In mountain hunting, where animals are in constant motion, knowing distances is crucial. Having a second person feed you relevant information is vital so that when the animal presents a small window, you're ready to take the shot.

Fortunately, the Ibex moved far enough to our right, and I inquired which one to target. “The 5th one,” Raj responded. My crosshairs focused on its shoulder, tracking it even as it stepped past another Ibex and shifted to the 4th one. My focus remained unwavering.

Steady rifle, clear vision, target acquired, deep breath, smooth trigger pull – the equation was complete. The rifle echoed through the Tien Shan Mountains with a resounding “Boom!” My shoulder absorbed the recoil, and I felt the bullet hit with perfect precision.

The Ibex slowed, swayed, and missed a few steps as life slipped away. He toppled no more than 100 meters from where he stood at the shot, Raj cheering, “You finished him! Give me five.” The celebratory high-fives and back slaps left me speechless, grappling with the enormity of the experience in the rugged Tian Shan Mountains.

Approaching the Ibex on horseback, I was full of gratitude and appreciation. I grasped why Kyrgyzstan's allure captivates hunters, though only a fortunate few experience it. The recollection of this extraordinary hunt, set against the backdrop of these majestic surroundings, is enough to sustain me for a lifetime. 

This wouldn't be my last adventure in these mountains, on these horses, navigating these roads, and spotting these iconic animals. The only difference next time – I'll transition back to being the guide, not the hunter.