Proudly ranked as one of Texas’s Top 11 All-Inclusive Resorts | ~1 hr from Dallas | ~ 3 hrs from Houston, Texas
Trophy Aoudad Hunting in Texas
Pursue the Rugged Barbary Sheep of North Africa — Approximately 1 Hour from Dallas-
Aoudad, also known as Barbary Sheep, are among the toughest and most resilient game animals a hunter can pursue. Built for steep mountains, rocky cliffs, and unforgiving terrain, these powerful sheep combine exceptional eyesight, remarkable agility, and an uncanny ability to disappear into cover. While they're traditionally associated with West Texas mountains, Cedar Cove Ranch offers a unique opportunity to pursue mature Aoudad in the heavily wooded hills, draws, and natural terrain of East Texas.
Every hunt is professionally guided and designed around ethical hunting principles. Whether you're adding a mature ram to your trophy collection or pursuing your first wild sheep, Cedar Cove Ranch delivers an unforgettable hunting experience paired with luxury accommodations and exceptional hospitality.
Native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa, Aoudad (Ammotragus lervia) are recognized by their muscular build, sweeping horns, and long flowing hair that drapes beneath the neck, chest, and front legs. Mature rams carry heavy, deeply ridged horns that curve outward before sweeping backward, creating one of the most recognizable silhouettes among wild sheep.
Although Aoudad naturally thrive in rocky mountains, they adapt exceptionally well to broken timber, steep ravines, and rugged woodland terrain. Their keen eyesight, excellent hearing, and tendency to use elevated vantage points make every stalk a rewarding challenge that demands patience, careful planning, and precise shot placement.
Professionally Guided • All-Inclusive • Luxury Lodging • Just 1 Hour from Dallas-Fort Worth
Aoudad Hunting at a Glance
Species Aoudad (Barbary Sheep) (Ammotragus lervia)
Also Known As Barbary Sheep
Home Turf Atlas Mountains of North Africa
Season Year-round — no closed season on exotics in Texas
Difficulty High — exceptional eyesight, endurance, and challenging stalks
Weapon: rifle or bow
Bull Size: Mature rams typically 200–300+ lbs
The Trophy Massive sweeping horns, heavy bases, and distinctive chest and leg "chaps"
On the table: Lean and firm, making it good for grilling or smoking | Mature ones can become quite strong in flavor and tougher due to age, and rut activity. These are often hunted primarily for the trophy
Terrain: Rugged East Texas terrain, timber, draws, and natural cover
Where Cedar Cove Ranch, Eustace, TX
From DFW ~1 hour
Why Hunt Aoudad at Cedar Cove Ranch?
Aoudad are famous for testing hunters both physically and mentally. Their ability to spot movement from long distances, combined with an instinct to seek high ground, makes every approach a calculated exercise in patience.
At Cedar Cove Ranch, our terrain creates a different style of Aoudad hunt than many hunters expect. Rather than long glassing sessions across open mountainsides, you'll use timber, creek bottoms, ridges, and natural cover to quietly work into range. Our experienced guides understand how these animals travel, where they prefer to bed, and how changing winds influence their movement throughout the day.
Every hunt is tailored to current conditions and designed to provide an authentic experience. After the hunt, unwind in luxury accommodations, enjoy chef-prepared meals, and relax around the lodge while reliving the day's adventure.
Highlights
✔ Professionally guided Aoudad hunts
✔ Mature trophy Barbary Sheep
✔ Private East Texas hunting ranch
✔ Rugged terrain with natural hills, draws, and timber
✔ Experienced professional guides
✔ All-inclusive hunting packages
✔ Luxury lodge accommodations
✔ Chef-prepared meals
✔ Approximately one hour from Dallas-Fort Worth
✔ Easily combine your hunt with Axis Deer, Blackbuck, Kudu, Gemsbok, Scimitar Oryx, Nilgai, and many other African exotics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Aoudad?
Aoudad, also known as Barbary Sheep, are large wild sheep native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa. They are known for their sweeping horns, shaggy chest hair, and remarkable ability to thrive in rugged terrain.
How difficult are Aoudad to hunt?
Aoudad are widely considered one of the most challenging exotic game animals in Texas. Their excellent eyesight, cautious nature, and ability to use terrain to their advantage require careful stalking and patient shot selection.
How large do Aoudad get?
Mature rams commonly weigh between 200 and 300 pounds, with exceptional individuals exceeding that weight. Their heavy horns and distinctive "chaps" make them one of the most recognizable trophies in North America.
Can I hunt Aoudad with a bow?
Yes. Both rifle and bow hunting are available. Your guide will recommend the best strategy based on terrain, animal movement, and shot opportunities.
Is Aoudad meat good?
Mature Aoudad are prized for their trophy-quality horns and rugged mountain-style hunt. While some hunters appreciate the meat when properly prepared, most consider the trophy—not the table fare—to be the primary reward.
Can I combine an Aoudad hunt with other species?
Yes. Many guests pair their Aoudad hunt with other exotic species such as Axis Deer, Blackbuck, Nilgai, Gemsbok, Scimitar Oryx, or other Rams, for a customized multi-species hunting adventure.
Is everything included?
Yes. Your professionally guided hunt, luxury lodging, chef-prepared meals, and full service hospitality are included from arrival through departure.
Ready to Hunt Trophy Aoudad?
Powerful, intelligent, and incredibly resilient, Aoudad offer one of the most rewarding hunting experiences available in Texas. If you're looking for a hunt that combines challenging stalks, mature trophies, and first-class hospitality, Cedar Cove Ranch is ready to deliver an unforgettable adventure.