Russian Hunting Agency / St. Petersburg, Russia
The habitat of the wolf covers huge territories from the western borders of Russia to the shores of the Pacific Ocean, and from the Arctic Tundra to the steppes of Kazakhstan and Mongolia. The population of this highly-adaptable animal has been stable for years, and in some areas has increased, causing damage to game and livestock. The largest animals, found in the North Eastern tundra, may reach 2 meters (about 7 ft.) from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail and weigh up to 100 kg. (220 lb.).
Wolf hunting is an old Russian tradition. We hunt wolves mainly in the European part of Russia in a very unique manner, which is not well-known in other countries. When the pack is located, it is encircled with a 2-3 mile long tether, having the flags stitched to it every few feet. Since it retains a human scent for several days, wolves tend to stay within the encircled area. When the hunters arrive, the pack of wolves is already "flagged"; therefore, the hunt must begin immediately. Preparation takes a great deal of footwork, but the success rate is very high. Four to five hunting days are usually sufficient. The wolf season is opened year around, but the best time is January-February. January wolf hunts can be combined with driven moose and boar hunts.