Fallow Deer Hunting

The fallow deer (Dama dama) is a medium-sized deer native to the Mediterranean region of Europe and Asia Minor. Originally from Turkey and surrounding areas, they were spread throughout Europe by the Romans and have since been introduced to every inhabited continent. They are the most widely kept deer species in the world.

What makes fallow deer unique is their palmated antlers—broad, flattened antlers similar to moose but on a much smaller scale. Mature bucks develop these distinctive "palms" after age 3-4, with antlers that can reach 20-28 inches in length and 8-25 cm in width at the palmation. Young bucks have simple pointed antlers before developing their characteristic shape.

Fallow deer come in four distinct color phases: common (tan with white spots), menil (lighter with more distinct spots), white (not albino, with dark eyes), and black (very dark brown/black with barely visible spots). In Texas, black, white, and menil varieties are popular among hunters seeking unique trophies.

Males weigh 130-220 pounds and stand 35-39 inches at the shoulder. Females are smaller at 65-110 pounds. During the fall rut, bucks engage in dramatic displays, groaning vocalizations, and sparring matches that make this an exciting time to hunt.

Conservation Status

The European fallow deer (Dama dama dama) is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN and thrives in managed populations worldwide. The Persian fallow deer (Dama dama mesopotamica) is endangered in its native Middle East. Texas has over 10,000 fallow deer, with about one-third in free-ranging populations primarily on the Edwards Plateau.

Spot and Stalk

The classic method for fallow deer in open terrain. Glass open areas, particularly during morning and evening feeding periods.

• Use elevated positions to glass open meadows and woodlands
• During the rut, listen for the distinctive groaning calls of bucks
• Approach from downwind—fallow deer have excellent scent detection
• Use terrain and vegetation for concealment during stalks

Stand/Blind Hunting

Highly effective near feeding areas, water sources, or during the rut:

• High seats and blinds are traditional in European fallow hunting
• Position near known travel corridors or rutting grounds
• Morning and evening sits are most productive
• Allow time for careful trophy evaluation before shooting

Calling During the Rut

Fallow bucks respond to calling during the rut:

• The groaning call of fallow bucks can be imitated
• Rattling and grunting can draw curious bucks
• Most effective in areas with competitive buck populations

Shot Placement

Standard deer shot placement applies—aim for the heart/lung area just behind the front shoulder at approximately one-third body height from the chest bottom. Their moderate size means shots are well within rifle capabilities at typical hunting distances.

• Broadside shots are ideal for clean kills
• Wait for animals to settle before shooting
• Avoid shots through heavy brush that may deflect bullets

Rifles

Medium-caliber rifles appropriate for deer-sized game:

• .243 Winchester: Light recoil, effective on fallow-sized deer
• 6.5 Creedmoor: Excellent ballistics and accuracy
• .270 Winchester: Classic deer cartridge, flat-shooting
• 7mm-08 Remington: Versatile and effective
• .308 Winchester: Proven deer getter
• .30-06 Springfield: Time-tested all-around performer

Archery

Excellent bow hunting opportunities during the rut:

• Draw weight: 50-65 lbs recommended
• Broadheads: Fixed or mechanical, 100+ grain
• Effective range: Under 40 yards typical
• SCI bow minimum: 135"

Optics

• Rifle scope: Variable 3-9x or 4-12x for typical hunting distances
• Binoculars: 8x42 or 10x42 for evaluating antlers at distance
• Rangefinder: Helpful for accurate shot placement

Essential Gear

• Camouflage or earth-toned clothing appropriate for terrain
• Quality boots for walking or standing comfort
• Shooting sticks or bipod
• Grunt/groan call during rut season
• Rattling antlers optional

Physical Preparation

Fallow deer hunting demands vary by method:

• Stand hunting: Patience and ability to sit for extended periods
• Spot and stalk: Moderate walking over varied terrain
• European high-seat hunting: Climbing to elevated positions
• Good overall fitness improves hunting success

Shooting Practice

• Practice at 100-300 yards from field positions
• Focus on accuracy—shot opportunities may be brief
• Practice quick target acquisition from shooting sticks
• Know your rifle's trajectory and limitations

Trophy Evaluation

Judging fallow antlers in the field:

• Palm width: Look for broad, well-developed palms
• Beam length: Main beams should extend well beyond ears
• Points: Count points along the palm edge (more = better)
• Symmetry: Even development adds to trophy quality
• Mass: Heavy beams and palms indicate maturity

Hunt Planning

• Duration: 2-4 days typical for Texas hunts
• Cost range: $3,500-$7,000 for trophy bucks in Texas
• Combo hunts: Often combined with axis, blackbuck, and other exotics
• Color varieties: Black and white phases may carry premium prices