Mastering the Roar: Aaron Stahl's Hunting Secrets

By Aaron Stahl

Aaron Stahl’s journey into hunting began later than most, but once he picked up the rifle at 27, he was hooked. With a background in fishing and camping, Aaron’s love for the outdoors evolved, and over the past 13 years, he’s hunted across the globe, chasing deer in Australia with both rifle and bow. His favourite hunts take place in the backcountry, where the challenge isn’t just about the hunt but also about pushing his limits alongside close mates in some of the most remote, untouched areas.

The roar of the stag is something Aaron looks forward to every year, and there’s no experience like being in the hills during that time. We caught up with Aaron to hear about his Roar hunting highlights, the best advice he’s ever received, and his essential gear for the season.

What’s one thing you’re most excited about this hunting season?

The red roar – it’s hands down the best time of year. The hills come alive, and there’s no sound like the roar of a stag. 

Best meal you’ve had after a hunt?

Ribs at the Lake View in Wanaka, NZ. 

Best hunt-related advice you’ve ever received?

Enjoy the journey and don’t get fixated on the prize. 

Funniest or best moment from past Roar hunts?

The funniest moment would have to be with my mate Jared. You can hear us arguing in the film over who should take the shot at a 16-point stag we were watching. It’s a bit of a story, but neither of us ended up getting the stag.  

As for the best highlight, last year’s roar was one of the most memorable moments of my hunting life. Watching my son, Beau, take his first red stag after passing many up over the previous 18 months, and then finally taking a 43” old brute – that moment was absolutely priceless. 

If you could hunt anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Elk and stone sheep are at the top of my bucket list. I’ve been lucky enough to hunt elk in Colorado on a DIY trip, though I wasn’t successful. Still, I loved every minute of hunting and watching them.

As for stone sheep, that’ll always remain a dream, though I did hunt the same terrain in 2018 for Rocky Mountain goats in British Columbia and successfully took a 10yo Billy.  

What’s your go-to piece of Hunters Element gear for the Roar and why?

I always rely on a layering system, adjusted to the season & terrain for every hunt. For the Roar, my go-to piece is the Halo jacket. It packs light, keeps you dry if the weather turns, and breaks the howling winds. 

To follow Aaron’s Roar season adventures and get an inside look at his hunting journey, make sure to check out his Instagram account.