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Congratulations all around thanks to a good hunters and intensive scouting by our team at Caprinae Safaris. This short clip of a tremendous billy was taken during the early December rut. More clips from various December 2025 hunts below.

Turkey's Bezoar Ibex ranks No. 1 among the ibex species. Why? Because they are amazing. Blending the largest horn-to-body size ratio of all the ibex with distinctive coloration and athletic agility playing out in the crags, they epitomize mountain royalty. All are trophies, but you'll know a really big one when you see it.

Marco Polo Argali Marco Polo Hunting Arguably one of the most sought-after wild sheep in the world, many international sheep hunters regard it as royal game having no equal.  Since the legendary explorer, Marco Polo, discovered his namesake species during journeys along the “Old Silk Road” in the late 1200s, hunters now experience exceptional concentrations of this majestic species in the welcoming, safe, and pro-hunting countries of modern-day Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.  Beyond the majesty of the trophy, hunts for Marco Polo are adventures in every sense of the word. And now, with the US F&W granting trophy imports again, hunters can hunt with the confidence that their trophies will grace their trophy rooms.  For three decades, we have enabled 100% success on high quality rams. Carefully curated hunting areas, hyper-detailed pre-hunt planning, perpetual scouting, and the exceptional skills and professionalism of our local master guiding teams deliver on expectations ever year. MARCO POLO ARGALI - TAJIKISTAN & KYRGYZSTAN General Overview Hunt Duration 9 to 10-day itinerary for Kyrgyzstan 8 to 9-day itinerary for Tajikistan +/- 1 day depending on commercial flights, weather Kyrgyzstan Season: Marco Polo and Ibex seasons have recently been extended from November 30 to December 14 annually. Tajikistan Season: Hunts are conducted from September through February annually. Hunt Timing September/October Hunts: Rams are more spread out and nomadic in late summer/early fall (pre-rut and pre-snow) as they wander the higher plateaus searching for fresh grass. Finding them could mean traveling 5–15 miles daily. 2 to 3-day spike-outs could be necessary to hunt the active periods of dawn and dusk. November-February Hunts: Later in the season, snow and the rut push rams lower and they congregate. The rut extends from roughly mid-November through mid-December – a time when many more rams appear. It’s common to see large numbers of rams each day as they traverse the high valleys in Tajikistan. Although smaller bands of rams are encountered in Kyrgyzstan, they are just as highly active and mobile during this period. There generally are more opportunities to look over more rams. Hunts are conducted from heated base camps. WEATHER COMPARISONS Month Tajikistan (Pamir Mountains) Kyrgystan (Tian Shan Mountains) September/October Weather is milder in both countries (warm to cool days, 40-65 ° F, with less risk of snow) Weather is milder in both countries (warm to cool days, 40-65 ° F, with less risk of snow) November Daytime: 30–50°F Nighttime: 5–14°F (Averages around 46°F daytime early in the month; sub-zero possible late. Expect frost, wind, and light snow) Daytime: 5–14°F Nighttime: -4–5°F (Very cold with hard morning frost; wind and occasional deep snow. Mountain averages: -5–2°F overall.) December Daytime: 20–40°F Nighttime: -5–10°F (Progressively colder; sub-zero widespread, with lows to -10°F or below in storms. Heavy snow possible, aiding sheep visibility.) Daytime: 0–10°F Nighttime: -10–0°F (Full winter conditions; frequent snowfall and wind chill below -10°F. Mountain averages: -10–0°F overall.) January/February 5–10°F Colder Hunting season is closed Hunting Method - Tajikistan: Vehicle-assisted spot & stalk hunting. Specially equipped SUVs can penetrate vast reaches of the hunting areas, typically over snow-covered ground, stopping often at promising points to glass. Once a mature trophy ram is selected, the approach and getting into shooting position is done on foot but sometimes hunters will be able to shoot from glassing positions. Hunting Method - Kyrgyzstan: Spot & stalk hunting by horseback led by highly experienced horsemen and hunting guides—similar to high-mountain elk hunting. Altitudes: In Tajikistan , base camps range from 12,000-13,000 ft. Most sheep are taken between 13,500 and 15,500 feet. Ibex can range 500 feet higher. In Kyrgyzstan , base and spike camps range from 8,500 to 11,500 feet. Most sheep and Ibex are taken between 11,500 to 13,500 ft. Acetazolamide (Diamox) helps hunters cope with high altitude. Terrain: Generally wide-open high valleys, undulating hills and high plateaus mixed with or surrounded by rocky outcroppings. The Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan are generally more open than the Tien Shan Mountains of Kyrgyzstan. Average Shot Distance: 400-600 yards. While every effort is expended to get as close as possible, prepare to shoot 500-600 yards as a baseline. Most 7mm and .300 magnums, and the .338 Lapua, are proven to be effective at average shot distances. They also buck crosswind better than lighter calibers. Marco Polo are hearty animals and can range in weight up to 400 pounds. We can recommend long-range custom and semi-custom gun builders who precisely understand the mountain hunting craft. Call Mark for details. Accommodations: Early hunts (September and sometimes October) could utilize tented camps due to rams being more scattered. November/December/January/February hunts are usually conducted from comfortable permanent base camp structures with meals prepared by dedicated cooks. But we sometimes use rustic, semi-permanent structures in the remotest parts of the hunting area depending on scouting reports. Guiding Teams: Our guides know sheep behavior and their hangouts during every phase of the season and utilize hunt strategies tailored for each time period. They are professional trophy hunters, highly skilled at judging sheep at distance. Guiding hunters to high quality rams is a point of national and personal pride for them. TAJIKISTAN Getting There and Back Turkish Airlines is a gun-friendly airline servicing many major airports in North America. Hunters fly to Istanbul and connect to Dushanbe, Tajikistan. If an overnight in Istanbul is required or desired before the hunt, our team will meet you in baggage claim, facilitate gun storage, make hotel and dining reservations, provide private van transport to hotels, and provide optional touring services. They provide the same services if a stopover in Istanbul is desired after the hunt. The fees are reasonable. V.I.P. Services in Dushanbe Once you arrive in Dushanbe, a member of our local team will meet you on arrival and take charge of firearms clearance in the VIP Lounge. Flights arrive in the early hours of the morning. Once formalities are completed, you will travel by comfortable SUV to Khorog (11 hours) and overnight in a comfortable hotel. The next morning you will resume driving 6-7 hours or more depending on the camp selected, rest-up, check your rifle, and begin hunting the next day. You may also choose to plan an overnight in Dushanbe and begin the journey to camp the next morning. Hunt Cost Marco Polo only: $58,000 (2026) $60,000 (2027) Marco Polo & Ibex Combination: $66,000 (2026) $69,500 (2027) Deposit Terms – Usually 50% of the hunt cost secures dates and locks in pricing. However, we can also help hunters with easy payment terms, if desired. The remaining balance will be due 90 days prior to hunt.  Please note: Deposits are non-refundable unless another hunter can fill in at the same price.  We can advise on hunt cancellation and interruption insurance options. Included Complete end-to-end hunt planning consultation and gear recommendations; V.I.P. reception & departure assistance at Customs in Dushanbe; round-trip road transfer and hotel in Khorog on the way to and back from camp; full accommodation in camps with meals, non-alcoholic drinks, & bottled water; hunting licenses and species permits, rifle permit, veterinary inspection certificate; professional outfitting with a 1 to 2 experienced personal guides per hunter; field preparation of trophies and trophy handling for export. Not Included Any airfare and baggage charges, hotels if needed before or after the hunt; driver and staff gratuities, trophy packing, shipping, US F&W & CITES import permit, brokerage clearance charges, any services in Turkey (quotations will be provided based on flight itinerary and optional sightseeing stop-overs in Istanbul). We assist with all permits and logistics planning. KYRGYZSTAN Getting There and Back As with travel to Tajikistan, gun-friendly Turkish Airlines services many major airports in North America. Hunters fly to Istanbul and connect to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. If an overnight in Istanbul is required or desired before and/or after the hunt, our team will facilitate gun storage, provide private van transport to hotels, make hotel reservations, arrange optional touring services, and do the reverse when it’s time to leave. Our team assists with baggage claim upon arrival and check-in when departing.  V.I.P. Services in Bishkek Once you arrive in Bishkek, a member of our team will meet hunters on arrival and take charge with firearms clearance. Once formalities are completed, you will travel by comfortable SUV for 6-14 hours depending on the camp selected, rest-up, check your rifle, and begin hunting the next day. In rare instances, you may make the final leg to camp by horseback. You may also choose to plan an overnight in Bishkek upon arrival and make the journey to camp the following morning. 2026 Hunt Cost Marco Polo only: $39,000 (2026) $42,500 (2027) Marco Polo & Ibex Combination: $47,000 (2026) $52,000 (2027) Deposit Terms – Usually 50% of the hunt cost secures dates and locks in pricing. However, we can also help hunters with easy payment terms, if desired. The remaining balance will be due 90 days prior to hunt.  Please note: Deposits are non-refundable unless another hunter can fill in at the same price.  We can advise on hunt cancellation and interruption insurance options. Included Complete end-to-end hunt planning consultation and gear recommendations; V.I.P. reception & departure assistance at Customs in Bishkek; round-trip road transfer to and back from camp; full accommodation in camps with meals, non-alcoholic drinks, & bottled water; hunting licenses and species permits, rifle permit, veterinary inspection certificate; professional outfitting with a minimum of 2 experienced guides per hunter; field preparation of trophies and trophy handling for export. Not Included Any airfare and baggage charges, hotels if needed before or after the hunt; driver and staff gratuities, trophy packing, shipping, US F&W & CITES import permit, brokerage clearance charges, any services in Turkey (quotations will be provided based on flight itinerary and optional sightseeing stop-overs in Istanbul). We assist with all permits and logistics planning. MARCO POLO ARGALI - TAJIKISTAN & KYRGYZSTAN Trophy Size Comparison TAJIKISTAN MARCO POLO: About 80% of the rams will tape 53-57” with the remainder ranging 58-60” or greater. Several have been taken between 60-65” over our 20+ year history of outfitting there. KYRGYZSTAN MARCO POLO: About 80% of the rams will tape 49-53” with the remainder usually ranging 54-55”. We have taken several in the upper-50s and 5% at 60”. IBEX Kyrgyzstan is well known for its big Mid-Asian Ibex. They typically exceed Tajikistan Ibex with mid-to-high 40s taken regularly and a strong number extending close to or better than 50” annually. Some reach 53-56”. The number of 50” Ibex taken annually is increasing. Tajikistan ibex typically range from 39-43”, but 20% will range 45-46” and greater. Selective hunting for bigger trophies makes a difference. INSIGHTS ON MARCO POLO TROPHY SIZE Marco Polo populations are very high in both countries, and the hunting areas remain pristine. Shot opportunities have been 100%. Success has been100%. Even if a hunter misses a ram, the guiding team will simply go to work to find other good rams. Our teams are professionals of high skill who will expend maximum effort to attain the highest quality size regardless of how “trophy quality” may be defined.  The size of trophies taken each year can vary in both countries for a number of logical reasons. Genetics and hunt timing can be a factor. Some hunters are more physically fit and adaptable to altitude. Some are more proficient at shooting well beyond average shooting distances if a colossal trophy can’t be stalked any closer. And some are dedicatedly hunting for the biggest trophy possible and might pass up excellent rams in hope of finding something very exceptional. Sometimes that level of perseverance pays off with a 60+, and more often than not, these bigger rams are taken during the rut. Those hunters get personal satisfaction from hunting selectively. But sometimes the hunter merely locates a bigger trophy serendipitously when exposed to hundreds of rams daily during the rut. Some hunters view the hunt as a magical journey of personal discovery–not a conquest. They view hunting in the totality of an ultra rare experience. They usually recognize that any Marco Polo that a qualified guide advises be shot is a trophy and are very happy with it. Any Marco Polo that our guides advise shooting will be an imposing focal point in a trophy room, and these hunters are usually the ones who recognize that a ram can be beautifu l irrespective of horn length. Krygystan - How Big Are They? Tajikistan - How Big Are They? TAJIKISTAN MAP • TERRAIN • CAMPS TWO TROPHY CAMPS IN TAJIKISTAN: ALICHUR & RANGKUL Tajikistan: Alichur & Rangkul - Trophy Camps Tajikistan Terrain & Typical Base Camps KYRGYZSTAN MAP • TERRAIN • CAMPS THREE TROPHY CAMPS IN KYRGYZSTAN Kyrgystan - Trophy Camps Kyrgystan Terrain - Remote & Deluxe Base Camps Making a Choice of Marco Polo Hunting Destinations There are many completely logical factors that can influence a hunter’s choice of which country to hunt. Over the course of two decades, the choice between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan for the majority of hunters has centered on these 4 main considerations: Preferred hunting strategy , irrespective of the spot & stalk method of hunting used in both countries. Area coverage and penetration is by vehicle in Tajikistan vs. horseback in Kyrgyzstan Trophy size objectives , irrespective of both countries being capable of producing rams of 60” or greater Both the average trophy size and chance for taking rams of 60” or greater favors Tajikistan Altitude , irrespective of all Marco Polo hunts being considered high-mountain hunts Both the camps and Marco Polo will be located at lower altitude in Kyrgyzstan Cost: Kyrgyzstan is less expensive Let’s discuss the relative importance of these factors to you so we can provide advice and perspectives that are relevant to your requirements and preferences. Confidence is priceless. Hunters are constantly having to re-zero their “brand name” rifles. And hunters miss game. It happens. Why? Temperature changes will render “sighted-in” rifles out of zero at practical mountain hunting ranges (and possibly materially to cause a miss) when subjected to temperature differences between a rifle range at home and the hunt destination and temperature fluctuations experienced during a hunt . Let us connect you with gun building experts who have scientifically solved this physics problem with breakthrough stock and barrel materials and a manufacturing process involving tolerances exceeding airline and defense contracting standards. They build completely tuned rifle systems and ammo for point and squeeze shooting in any temperature and at any angle and altitude. Light in weight and yet less recoil. Precision is fast, so, they build them with benchmark speed. RE-THINK NORMAL Our mission isn’t just to achieve excellence—it’s to outperform the best definition of it and forge a legacy of unparalleled impact through everything we say and do. It’s not enough for us to meet the goals of our hunters; we strive to redefine them higher, crafting outcomes that inspire, endure, and transform.  We pursue mastery, infusing every hunting program with a relentless focus on details from end to end. Through a meticulous, tailored process, we ensure every hunter is properly informed and that every hunt aligns with the highest standards of quality and value. We avoid the usual hunting industry hype, and instead, set clear expectations, plan with surgical precision, and communicate honestly and diligently.  Accountability. No excuses. We own it. Contact us to start planning today!

When it comes to hunting Blue Sheep in the Himalayas of Pakistan, no truer words apply. A hunter needs a uniquely resolute team to help reach the high-altitude realm of these majestic sheep. And while it is normal to utilize local guiding teams for hunting remote areas, the Blue Sheep crews have a unique, personal stake in the long-term success of these hunts. Besides the wages and tips that they personally earn for each hunt, the bigger payoff is the financial benefit that their village communities receive. It is well known in mountain hunting circles that local communities saved many species. They evolved from uncontested subsistence poaching to managing game as a renewable resource. In doing so, they have enabled modern day hunting. Visionaries among village elders realized the value of hunting dating back to the nineties and embarked on campaigns to enlighten their communities about the financial rewards of conservation. Most communities eventually recognized that the Blue Sheep, Markhor, and Himalayan Ibex were income-producing assets worthy of diligent stewardship. Poaching was drastically reduced and the money hunters paid for hunting permits contributed to financing better lifestyles for their communities. Today, guiding teams perform a valuable community service for each mountain hunt. But other things have  not  changed in Paksitan’s mountain communities. Blue Sheep hunts are conducted by traditional methods and exemplify adventure. This is old school hunting like the classic portered safaris conducted in Africa decades ago. Ten to twenty villagers lead the assent to Blue Sheep territory, carrying your camp and necessary provisions with strength and stamina exceeding what their age and lean builds suggest. Each weathered member of the team is happy to be there and contribute his craft. Each has a role that they have carried out for years. Mountains are their home. These teams are like ironworkers building a skyscraper; heights and drop-offs do not phase them. They may not be dressed in Kuiu clothing, but they are some of the hardest working and most highly skilled people in the world of mountain hunting. They are professionals in every sense. You will kill a Blue Sheep with your feet. Over a 2 to 3-day trek from the base of the Shimshal Valley, you will stop on the way up for overnights and continue the journey until base camp is reached. Yaks might be useful for part of the trek, but these ancient rocky trails will narrow down to footpaths in spots. You’ll hoof it as needed but always with the watchful eyes of your trusted hosts. If you are heading to the right conservancy (hunting block), you will see Blue Sheep in strong numbers from base camp and further upward. Most hunters are successful in 1-3 days. Short clip of lone ram The trek down is just as classic of an adventure as the way up, joyful instead of hopeful. At journey’s end is a festival-like welcome by a larger contingent of the local village. This is a moment of pride for them and congratulations for the hunter. Young and old come to celebrate and express their appreciation for their trust before a more formal ceremony takes place with the village council members. Village Celebration All this makes a hunt for Blue Sheep extraordinary. Put yourself in this picture. Imagine a timeless culture living in the majesty of the rugged Himalayas. Imagine looking down at the world from its crags—which act out as merciless arbiters of a hunter’s will—and you, going toe-to-toe with nature’s indifference. Feel the soul and joy shared with new brothers from a land you did not understand until you are in the moment with them. And then try to find words that aptly describe an out-of-body experience—an ancient ritual, far more seismic and experiential than "a hunting trip"—where you walk away stronger, wiser, and deeply respectful of mountains and humanity.

Russia Far East Understanding the natural range of some of Russia’s most sought-after big game will reveal more opportunities than previously known. This becomes especially relevant to the big coastal brown bear and Chukotka moose of Russia’s Far East. Coastal Brown Bear The Kamchatka Peninsula is what first pops into mind for these species, and this is a good place to begin. Historically, it has been a place of legend for big bears and remains that way today. But big coastal bears are also found in the Magadan region of the Far East mainland. Magadan’s coast is home to the exact same species of big bear found on the Kamchatka Peninsula. Bears inhabiting the Magadan coast are referred to as “Kamchatka brown bears” by biologists. The illustration shows the natural range of this big bear. Magadan has some advantages that could include easier access travel-wise and additional openings date-wise. We have bear camps with above average comforts, and our Russian partner is a superb guide who speaks excellent English. And the bears found in the Magadan region are comparable in size to Kamchatka’s. Chukotka Moose Kamchatka is known among hunters for its remarkable moose. Several decades ago, wildlife authorities transplanted 78 young Chukotka moose in 1978 from their natural home on the mainland into several locations throughout Kamchatka. They have thrived since their introduction. The world record moose was harvested on the Kamchatka Peninsula in 2017, and outsized moose continue to be taken annually. Kamchatka is an excellent choice. But like the explanation for brown bears above, the Magadan region is a great alternative. The Far East mainland is actually the natural home of the Chukotka moose. Moose can be hunted as a single species or in combination with reindeer, which have attributes in common with Canada’s mountain caribou. Is Russia Safe to Hunt? Absolutely. Safety is always our first concern. But fears about hunting Russia have been born out of incomplete stories generated by the media. In all cases of Americans being detained, laws were broken. Our preparation and our ground team in Russia ensure that you can hunt with confidence. Contact Pantheon Hunters® for the most up-to-date availability and detailed information about hunting for these and all other species in Russia.

Mark Audio, Founder & CEO of Pantheon Hunters® Mark Audio, Founder & CEO of Pantheon Hunters®, dives into the precision, power, and craftsmanship behind his Bongo Rifle. Get an inside look at the features that make this build a true hunter’s tool. Contact Mark To Start Planning Your Next Safari Hunt

Big coastal brown bears are the Holy Grail. They hold a sacred place on almost every hunter’s bucket list. Why? Because they must be hunted . They are apex predators. Their imposing physical stature is mind blowing. Many trophy rooms have had to be made larger to accommodate a life-sized version of what hunters encountered. Kamchatka Brown Bear They can out-run a quarter horse and will just as easily climb over the top of a mountain than go around it to get to the other side. They are machines and they even eat each other. They will challenge the best guns, skills, and the bodies of even the fittest hunter-athletes.  Scouting for big bears The population of brown bears and potential for trophy size on the Kamchatka Peninsula will challenge status quo thinking about brown bear hunting. You will need to rethink everything about brown bear hunting when it comes to the Kamchatka Peninsula. We hunt Alaska for big bears but there simply is no consistent Alaskan equivalent to Kamchatka. 10 footer Consider: Due to the remoteness of the best bear areas in Kamchatka (most of which are accessible by helicopter charter only), there is essentially zero hunting pressure, not even from locals . . . so little in fact that there is no legal limit to the number of bears a hunter can take on any given hunt. That’s why the number of bears taken averages 2 bears per hunter on a 6 to 7-day hunt. That translates to a 200% success rate. Bear populations are so high that hunters will see 10-20 bears each day, most of which would be considered trophies elsewhere. Big bears are in such abundant supply that our guides leave camp each day with the objective and expectation of shooting only 10-footers or better. Spring is the most productive time to hunt for big bears with prime hides. The depth of snow during Spring forces the use of snow machines to locate trophy bears. Translation: this is the least physically demanding trophy-class brown bear hunt in the world. Anyone can do this hunt. The cost of hunting Kamchatka brown bear will range from 25% to 40% less all-up, all-in, including flights, charters, licenses, tags, and tips than a high-quality Peninsula or Kodiak hunt. We can provide modern high-quality guns to rent with ammo, but we successfully get personal gun permits for hunts anywhere in Russia. Our experienced English-speaking teams make every aspect of logistics planning and hunt execution work to perfection. They meet you upon arrival, clear guns, travel with you, facilitate daily camp life, manage trophy processing, and assist you at check-in to begin your journey home. From beginning to end, you are their professional responsibility. Lastly, despite current geopolitical tensions among governments, we have only experienced the best in hospitality, services and skills from our Russian colleagues. We know them to be among the most welcoming, friendly and hardest working of the hunting cultures. Typical brown bear terrain on the Kamchatka Peninsula Ultimately, we expect the geopolitical relationship between Russia and the United States will be far better in the foreseeable future. But hunts have been taking place continuously since the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict without issue. We are in high gear planning hunts across the Russian Federation for the 2026 season and beyond. Contact us for the latest updates on conditions, availability and pricing.

African Bull Elephant Mountain Video Followed by Femaks Ibex Running Mountain Video Mid-Asian Ibex Feeding - Uzbekistan Tracking Bongo in Cameroon Marco Polo Herd Running Big Altai Argali Pakistani Children Honoring the Hunt and Hunters Polar Bear Mongolia - High Altai Argali Herd Ibex Herd in Mongolia Lone Blue Sheep in Pakistan Marco Polo in Tajikistan Drone Video Himalayan Ibex in Pakistan Konya Sheep herd in Turkey Blue Sheep Herd Ascending to hunt Blue Sheep in Pakistan Mongolia Ibex Video Mongolian Argali Turkey Video - Bezoar Ibex Marco Polo

Uzbekistan Trophy Hunting High in the rugged mountains of Uzbekistan, where the air thins and the landscape stretches untouched for miles, the pursuit becomes something more than a hunt. It’s a test of endurance, patience, and respect for the wild. Contact us today to start planning your next expedition!

Hunter and Videographer - Joe Bartlett Having a major hunt filmed by a professional videographer offers a range of benefits that elevate the experience, preserve memories, and enhance the impact of the event. On a purely functional level, there is a major difference in production quality between a compilation of casually captured scenes and a story well told by someone who knows hunting and film capture: A professional videographer uses advanced equipment (e.g., high-resolution cameras, drones, stabilizers) and techniques to capture stunning visuals, from sweeping landscapes to close-up shots of critical moments. This ensures the hunt is documented in a visually compelling way that amateur footage can’t match. Skilled editing transforms raw footage into a cohesive, engaging story with smooth transitions, color grading, and pacing that keeps viewers captivated. This includes incorporating slow-motion, time-lapses, or dynamic angles to highlight key moments. Professionals use high-quality microphones and sound design to capture clear audio, including natural sounds (e.g., wildlife, footsteps, wind) and narration, enhancing the immersive experience. Introducing Joe Bartlett – Blue Creek Outdoors After some exciting hunting experiences that we shared in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, I heartily recommend Joe Bartlett. Joe is well equipped at the functional level outlined above. But his many distinguishing attributes makes him a standout. Joe is a hunter and professional hunting guide. Knowing intimately what’s involved emotionally and physically in fair chase hunting, and knowing animal behavior, positions him to capture the meaningful moments of the experience. He weaves in elements like the preparation, the emotional stakes, the challenges faced, and the triumph or lessons learned, making the film resonate with viewers. He illustrates the emotional connection. By focusing on the human element—whether it’s the hunter’s personal journey, their connection to nature, or the cultural significance of the hunt—a storyteller creates a video that evokes emotion and leaves a lasting impact. He creates universal appeal by tailoring the story to appeal to both hunting enthusiasts and broader audiences, emphasizing themes like adventure, perseverance, or conservation. Joe is skilled in blending into the environment, minimizing distractions during the hunt. He knows how to position himself to capture key moments without interfering with the experience. He works with hunters beforehand to understand the goals, terrain, and logistics, ensuring they’re prepared to capture the action without disrupting the hunt’s flow. He can produce various versions of the video, such as a short highlight reel for social media, a longer documentary-style film, or even a series of clips for different purposes (e.g., personal keepsake, promotional material). Joe Bartlett is more than a videographer of worldwide hunts. He is a participant in each hunt. His knowledge of hunting and guiding stimulates him to add value beyond the camera. I have seen him help judge trophy quality, tend to horses, help get hunters into shooting position, help skin and pack out trophies, and much more. He is a most pleasurable and conversant hunting companion who adds a unique dimension to a hunt. Joe’s rates are competitive while bringing immeasurable added value to the hunting experience. Contact us for more information. Contact Joe directly at (307) 851-4883 or by email at: jbartlett@bluecreek-outdoors.com Watch the video for insights directly from Joe.

We are often asked for guidance on tipping because there are no absolute rules. It’s a topic that should be considered when planning the total cost of a hunt. Restaurant tipping utilizes some established norms (10 – 15 – 20%) that have been assumed by society. Restaurant industry tips are often shared with people we don’t see or may not utilize such as kitchen staff, bartenders, other servers, etc. Conversely, hunting and especially international hunting, usually involves a team that we interact with on a personal basis daily. This necessity creates logical questions about who should get what.  Also, often there is both a main and assistant guide or PH conducting a hunt. And a further complicating factor is that some outfitters and safari operators compensate their employees with base pay that assumes a certain level of tipping that fills in to make their total wage satisfactory. As hunters, we won’t know who gets paid what, and not knowing this places additional burden on us to ensure that we reward appropriately. To all of us hunters, tipping can be a mine field. We don’t want to under-tip  because we don’t want to devalue the experience or the knowledge and effort that benefitted us. And we don’t want to over-tip  and set an expectation that can’t always be fulfilled by others and create ongoing expectation and disappointment. Here are tipping principles  to consider that will hopefully begin to demystify tipping:  Tipping is discretionary. You will feel obligated but you are in control to pay for the value that was delivered to you. Merit should be the determining factor in deciding whether a tip is given and the total amount of the tip. Always take the latest issue and freshest $100 bills. There is so much counterfeiting of US Dollars around the world, that locals are distrusting of it. Fresh bills solve the problem. Keeping in mind that there are no hard and fast rules, there are some norms . Here are some tipping guidelines  to consider: AFRICAN SAFARIS  - For safari pricing structured with a daily rate plus trophy fees, with a few exceptions the tip for the PH or guide is based on the daily rate (not the trophy fees). A PH would typically get around 10% of the daily rate per day as a decent baseline for plains game safaris and a baseline of up to 20% of the daily rate per day for remote complex or special safaris (e.g., lion, elephant, Lord Derby eland, bongo, mountain nyala). The camp staff would split an additional 10-20% which can average out to 100-$150/day to be split among them. ASIAN SAFARIS  – The daily rate plus trophy fee model is not used very much for Asian hunts. Tips are based on total hunt cost, and that total will typically be split among the entire team assisting the hunt, including the guide(s). Here are some examples: The total baseline tip for combination Marco Polo/ Ibex hunt in Kyrgyzstan costing $47,000 and $65,000 in Tajikistan will be $4,700 and $6,000, respectively. US Dollars go a long way for a hunting team in Mongolia. For example, the outfitter for a High Altai argali hunt that cost $155,000 suggested a total guide and camp staff tip of $7,000. The cost of a premium High Altai argali hunt can escalate to between $180,000 to $220,000 and so does the level of tip. Total tips for premium or VIP argali hunts can escalate to $10,000 or $20,000 depending on your guide, pre-scouting resources not bundled into the hunt price, etc. $7,500-$15,000 would be a good baseline range for a Markhor / Himalayan Ibex  combo hunt in Pakistan.  10-15% is a good baseline for other Asian hunts. REST OF WORLD SAFARIS  – 10-15% of the total hunt cost is a good baseline. Merit and Exceptional Effort Merit is in itself highly subjective because of wide ranging definitions that stem from different ways of interpreting all the factors that enable success and enjoyment. But you’ll know when you have had a good experience and enjoyed a good relationship with your PH, guide, and team. You’ll know when together you overcame circumstances to make a tough hunt come good, or they helped you take a remarkable trophy, or simply had a positive out-of-body experience. That’s when you want to consider tipping beyond the baseline levels. Here are a few perspectives and questions that will help you determine the extent of both merit and exceptional effort. Helping you judge and hunt selectively.  A PH or guide who says “let’s pass this one up because I think we can do better” is giving a clear indication that he wants the best for you and has a sense of personal pride. If he was willing to hunt harder for a better trophy rather than just get the hunt over with and you ended up getting an above average trophy because of his discernment, consider rewarding him above the baseline.  Attentiveness.  You will sense when someone is a conversationalist and trying to do something out of the ordinary for you. Behaviors like politeness, courtesy, encouragement, and generally working hard to get the best out of you could easily deserve an uplift on the baseline tip.  The ability to handle adversity.  Bad weather, animals not where they were to be, or any number of uncontrollable things that can go wrong will challenge the normal conduct of hunting. Did he make the right decisions in light of weather or conditions that would likely impede the hunt or potentially prevent you from being successful? Did he calmly position you to take the shot, or did you hurry the shot because he himself was not composed? In the case of a missed shot, did he stabilize your high emotions, offer encouragement, and happily push harder to get you another chance? In the case of a wounded animal, how effective was the follow-up process? The attributes and list of questions above is not exhaustive, but they represent some of the filters for determining merit. When there are positive responses to questions like these, you know you were hunting with a knowledgeable and caring professional.  Distributing Tips Tip your guide or PH directly and privately.  Regardless of your pre-hunt tip plan, seek advice from your PH, Guide, or outfitter on tipping team members. They have a sense of what each person/function contributes to the hunt and they can assist with apportioning tips according to the importance of their individual roles. Distributing tips to the team involves ceremony. You are all celebrating the hunt and you are celebrating them. It’s always better if you personally can issue the cash to each individual contributor. Take some envelopes. Write their name on it. Present it with a handshake, sincere thanks, and a smile.  Sometimes the PH, camp manager, or safari operator will have reasons for holding cash disbursements until “payday”. They have their reasons. Usually, it’s to protect against theft or to prevent squandering. The workaround for the hunter in this situation is that each contributor gets a paper IOU for the specific amount they are to get. As with the cash, it’s best if you can hand out the IOU slip to each contributor along with your thanks. A journal entry is made for each amount by the PH or safari operator for each team member, and at the end of the safari season or when one of the team gets leave to visit their family, the PH or safari operator will distribute their earnings. For Pantheon Hunters, those who have outfitted and guided our personal hunts have always out-performed. So, we have always tipped more. We truly understand how precious and fragile international hunting has become, how much goes into each hunt, and how much the hunting team depends on tips. So, sharing more has always been rewarding for us. Again, with no hard and fast rules to make tipping easy, hopefully you are more grounding in the tipping ritual. From here, you will most likely develop your own tipping strategy.  Contact us today to start planning your next expedition!

While hunting Kamchatka brown bear in the Spring of 2024, Pantheon Hunters’ founder was surprised by a birthday celebration and a special gift that has many meanings.  Members of our Russian team presented a watch modeled after one that then-President of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev, presented to President Ronald Reagan. It promised opportunity for the future between the two countries but did so from the unique position of starting from scratch, at the zero position. No matter what had taken place in the past, the watch symbolized a genuine new beginning full of hope. This is also how Pantheon Hunters feel about the resumption of hunting in Russia. People of the hunting world are committed to each other and depend on each other, and the Russian people were welcoming and hard-working. The many hard-working outfitters and guides that we work with deserve our support irrespective of what governments do or say. And it is safe to hunt there. News of Americans being stranded had broken laws in each instance. President of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev & President Ronald Reagan Impassioned destination hunters intellectually assess realities and rise above geopolitics to be human.  We will be going back to hunt Russia in 2026 and beyond with the confidence of having more great hunting experiences. When it comes to hunting the Russian Federation, contact Pantheon Hunters for factual insights about the full array of opportunities in this game-rich land. Contact us today to start planning your next expedition!