Seasons open in Feb. and close at the end of May. Brocket deer speciality hunts are most prime early and late in the season, which translates to Feb/March and May respectively. The best time for mixed-species hunts however would be April.

This unique species line-up can all be hunted either as targets of priority or opportunity, on flat rate trophy fees, payable upon successful harvest or mortal wounding/loss. Species include; Red and Gray/Brown Brocket Deer, Ocellated Turkey, Great Curassow, Crested Guan, Paka, Coatimundi, Collard Peccary and Aguti.

These hunts are 7 full days, on a 9-day itinerary based from comfortable camps in the Mayan jungles of the Yucatan. Brocket deer are hunted over natural food sources. Depending on the time of year, that ranges from flowers in the early season, or fallen tree-fruit in the late season. Hunt from Machan’s, a traditional handmade hammock-style tree-stand constructed 12-18 feet up over pre-scouted areas where Brocket Deer are actively feeding, or use pop-up ground blinds. Encounters are usually close range, between 10 and 30 yards with the thick vegetation. 

Hunts are 1x1 guided with a scout/guide-assistant, who is always thinking ahead, scouting full-time, checking cameras and preparing new Machan’s or blinds to ensure highest possible opportunity rates. Hunts occur morning and evening, unless the trail cameras show midday or all-day activity. Hunters typically enjoy a tasty brunch, and then recharge with a siesta between the morning and evening hunts. Physically, this hunt is not challenging and very achievable for determined hunters of any fitness type.

Shotgun rentals come included on all Brocket deer packages, provided and encouraged by the outfitter. Shotguns are 12 gauge with full chokes, generally shooting 3-inch #4 buck shot or BBB at Brocket deer, and #2-4 shot at Ocellated Turkeys & mixed jungle fowl. Typical shooting range is 10-30 yards. 

Archery is legal and bow hunters are welcomed to bring their personal equipment, but will ultimately see lower success rates compared to shotgun hunters. Thick vegetation almost never provides a clear or obstruction free shot. 

Enter the Mayan jungles of the Yucatan. The hunting areas are located in a region known as a “dry forest”, with large trees, dirt logging roads under and extensive tree canopy, and a thick understory. The terrain is quite hilly with several small mountains, and slow-moving rivers that form a series of lagoon-like lakes. It’s a diverse ecosystem that supports rich biodiversity of flora & fauna. Key tree species include the Amapola, whose flowers are a vital food source for Brocket deer, especially Reds. Sweet Gum, and Wild Fig trees with their sweet fruit provide other important food sources for the many wildlife species. Parrots, Spider and Howling monkeys, Coatimundis, Tapers, Jaguars, Boa constrictors, Caimans, Iguanas and Tarantulas to name a few.

Overall, the weather is generally quite nice. While it can get hot in the middays (100 F), early mornings and evenings certainly cool down (70-80’s F) with noticeable temperature swings. In the earliest part of the season (Feb-March) it can even become quite chilly at times (60’s F). Hunters can begin to expect some rain in the late season starting in May, as temperatures increase (110+ F). Big storms, or fronts are however unlikely this time of year, and clients almost never lose any hunting days to weather.

Jungle camps are comprised of a series of wooden thatched roof cabins to serve as private sleeping quarters for hunters and guides. Rooms are bug proof with full screening & netting, separate private bathrooms, running water, satellite Wi-Fi, common dining areas and generator powered electricity, complete with fridges and freezers. There is no Air Conditioning yet, but each bedroom is equipped with a large fan if needed. Unwind with archery targets, and a shady common lounge area complete with hammock style lounge chairs.

Local cooks prepare authentic Mayan cuisine. Breakfasts are light with bacon, ham, eggs, fruit, coffee, tea, toast and beans. Snacks can also be brought out in the field for the morning hunt if desired. Return to the lodge for a tasty lunch and a midday siesta! After the evening hunt, return to a big dinner with local Mayan favorites such as BBQ steaks, grilled game meat or chicken, fried corn dough dishes, stews, empanadas, and more served with salad or rice and beans, fresh salsa and corn tortillas fresh daily. Enjoy traditional desserts like sweet rice with milk & cinnamon and flans with fruit and condensed milk.

Destination City: Most hunters arrive to Merida, and the Brocket camps are located roughly 4-5 hours’ drive. Cancun can be used as a secondary destination city option, but add at least 2 hours to the drive. 

Travel Suggestions: Merida is serviced daily by Houston, Dallas and Miami via United and American airlines flights. Cancun can be reach by nearly any international airport in the winter & spring. Hunters are encouraged to arrive in the morning or midday, and either depart to camp immediately, or overnight in the destination city and depart to camp the following morning.

CITES permits are not required for Brocket Deer, and in some cases, clients can fly home with their Brocket deer trophies. Otherwise, trophies are carefully caped and salt dried in camp. Then they are delivered to an expeditor in Merida, who secures the veterinary certificate and export permit, clears any inspections and initiates the shipping. Turnaround time is prompt, usually around 2-4+ months.