Kolyma Snow Sheep

In late 2004, the Kolyma Snow Sheep (Ovis nivicola ssp) was recognized as a separate species in trophy classification. This sheep is found exclusively in the Magadan Region, primarily in the Kolyma Mountain range. The eastern boundary of its range is considered to be the large river valley west of the Koryak Mountains in the Koryak Autonomous Region, while the northern boundary extends to the Chukotka Autonomous Region border. The western boundary follows the Kolyma River from the Omolon River to the Kolyma River, continuing along the Trans-Siberian Highway. The southern boundary is marked by the Trans-Siberian Highway, which starts in the city of Magadan and runs northward. For all practical purposes, the Kolyma Snow Sheep’s range lies to the west of the Koryak Mountains, extending down through the Kolyma range, east of the Kolyma River. Trophy sizes vary, with horns ranging from 34 to 41 inches in length. It is possible to combine hunting trips for three types of Snow Sheep (Okhotsk, Kolyma, and Yakut) on one journey, with special rates available upon request.

The hunting area is located in the Magadan Region, and the season runs from August 1 to November 30, with the best time for hunting being from September to mid-October. From August 20, Snow Sheep hunting can be combined with Brown Bear hunting. To reach the area, the best route is to fly to Magadan via Moscow. Upon arrival in Moscow, our crew will meet you at the airport, assist you with customs, and help with your departure to Magadan. Once in Magadan, you will be met by our local crew and an interpreter. From there, you will take a helicopter directly to the base hunting camp, located northeast of Magadan, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours away by flight.

Accommodation in the base camp consists of large, comfortable tents equipped with beds, stoves, and portable lamps. During the Snow Sheep hunt, spike camps are used, where hunters typically stay in light tents. We also use a boat as a camp when traveling along the coast. A cook is always available to prepare home-style meals, ensuring excellent food and high-quality service throughout your stay.

The climate in August typically sees daytime temperatures ranging from 50 to 70˚F (10 to 20˚C), with nighttime temperatures dropping to between 32 and 50˚F (0 to 10˚C). As the season progresses, rainy, snowy, and windy weather is possible. The hunt follows the typical spot-and-stalk method, with each hunter accompanied by one guide and one assistant. Spike camps are a mandatory part of hunting for specific animals. The maximum elevation for the hunt is 6,000 feet, but hunting usually takes place at elevations between 3,000 and 4,500 feet. Hunters should be in good physical condition. Importantly, if the desired game is not found in the initial hunting area, we guarantee to move you by helicopter to a better location. The average success rate for this hunt is 90%.