Hunting Methods

Hunting Methods

Bow hunts are usually conducted in the ways depending on your specific situation and species hunted:

1. Blinds

The majority of successful bags are made from permanently constructed blinds. These are situated approximately 20 yards from waterholes and salt licks.  Some blinds are elevated from the ground, and others are ground blinds, depending on the terrain, sun and wind direction. These blinds are spacious and have roofs overhead. Shooting ports are adjustable to suit both standing and sitting archers. Animals bagging regularly through this method are Kudu, Impala, Blue Wildebeest, Zebra, Eland, Gemsbok, Red Hartebeest, Warthog and Baboon.

2. Stalking                          

This method is used for the “more difficult” species or those that do not frequent the waterholes. Some concessions offer the ideal terrain for this method. The undulating hills, deep gullies and water streams with thick vegetation all make it possible to get within bow range during the months of April, May and June. After these months the fall starts and sufficient cover becomes scarce.  Species bagged by this method are Bushbuck, Nyala, Duiker, Klipspringer, Mountain Reedbuck and the species listed under “Blinds”.

3. Opportunity                           

This includes a variety of hunting methods. A common method  of locating animals is cruising in a 4x4 vehicle. A large area can be covered using the method without losing valuable time walking through dead terrain. Once game has been sighted the stalk is planned and the vehicle drives off leaving the hunter and his guide in a suitable position. Often the opportunity arises whereby the hunter is dropped behind cover or downwind and the game is moved towards him by the trackers. This can be very exciting and rewarding, but needs a lot of patience and time. Any species available in an area can be bagged using this method. A hunter can also select an active game trail used by a specific trophy and erecting a tree stand or temporary blind.

Dangerous Game

Each Province has different regulations regarding dangerous game bow hunting. Do not hesitate to ask your Outfitter to supply you with the latest regulations before confirming a hunt.

The number of bow hunters entering South Africa is rapidly increasing, and more and more outfitters are catering to their specific requirements. Bow hunting in most provinces is done under special permit which will be arranged in advance by your hunting outfitter. There may be restrictions imposed on species of animal that can be bow hunted and on the standard of equipment required.

Plains Game 

Compound, longbows and re-curve bows can be used on Plains game. Although no regulation regarding draw weight exists it is recommended to use bows of 60 pounds and higher.

Traditional archers should advise the length of their longbows to enable any adjustments to existing blinds to be made prior to the safari. Three or four bladed broad heads of the thunderhead type are recommended.