Bow Hunt Gemsbuck in South Africa – Trophy Gemsbok Hunt

Gemsbuck, also known as Gemsbok or Oryx, is a majestic and highly sought-after antelope species found in various regions of Africa. Bow hunting Gemsbuck in South Africa offers an exhilarating and challenging experience for hunting enthusiasts. This article will delve into the details of bow hunting Gemsbok in South Africa, including the necessary equipment, hunting techniques, and the overall experience when you bow hunt in South Africa. A good trophy bull will have horns that measure anywhere from 35 to 42 inches depending on the part of the country you are in. The animals in the Kalahari desert have bigger horns than what you will find in bushveld areas. Booking your Hunting Safari Choose a good booking agent or hunting outfitter to make your reservation. A good outfitter will have access to hunting concessions that have both top quality and good numbers of Oryx. The best South African areas are the Limpopo province, Northern Cape and the North West provinces of South Africa. The outfitter will take care of all of the arrangements including permissions, licenses and permits. You may also want to enquire about the availability and trophy fee of other plains game species like Blesbok, Nyala and Wildebeest hunting packages on the same African Safari.

Equipment for Bow Hunting Gemsbok in South Africa

When embarking on a bow hunting safari for Gemsbok in South Africa, it is crucial to have the right equipment to ensure a successful and ethical hunt. Here are some essential items to consider:

Bow and Arrows

Choosing a reliable compound bow, traditional recurve or crossbow that suits your skill level is vital. It is recommended to use a bow with a draw weight of at least 60 pounds to effectively penetrate all the way through to the vital organs. Ensure that your arrows are durable, well-fletched, and equipped with broad heads designed for big game hunting. Make sure that your broad heads are razor sharp.

Kinetic Energy (KE)

The minimum kinetic energy required for bow hunting gemsbok is 60 ft/lb. This energy level ensures that your arrow can penetrate effectively and reach the vital organs.

Arrow Information

• Try to achieve an arrow velocity of at least 250 fps.
• A minimum arrow weight of 450 grains should be used. This weight provides the necessary momentum for an ethical kill.

Optics

Investing in quality binoculars of 10 X 40 or 8 X 40 magnification is essential to spot Gemsbok from a distance. This will enable you to analyze their behavior, assess their trophy quality, and plan your approach accordingly. You will also need a good quality rangefinder to accurately judge the distance and compensate for the arrow drop over distance.

Camouflage Clothing

Wearing appropriate camouflage clothing that matches the natural surroundings is crucial for blending into the environment and avoiding detection by wary Gemsbok. Opt for lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the prevailing weather conditions where you are hunting.

Hunting Accessories

Carrying essential hunting accessories such as a range finder, a sturdy backpack, a knife, and a field dressing kit is highly recommended. These tools will assist you in accurately judging distances, carrying necessary provisions and water, and any other pits and pieces you may need for a successful hunt.

Gemsbok Bow Hunting Prices

For 2023 and 2024 season, the gemsbok bow hunting price is $1,500.

Techniques for a Trophy Gemsbok Hunt

Hunting Gemsbok requires stealth, patience, and sound hunting techniques. Here are some effective strategies to increase your chances of a successful hunt:

Scout the Area

Before initiating your bow hunting expedition, it is crucial to thoroughly scout the hunting area. Look for fresh signs of Gemsbok such as tracks, droppings, and well-worn trails. Pay close attention to their preferred feeding and watering spots, as these are ideal locations for setting up ambushes. Take note of where the plains game like Kudu, Wildebeest and Zebra come to drink at watering holes, these are likely preferred places.

Stalking

Stalking is a popular technique to for this animal. Begin stalking from a distance, utilizing available cover such as trees, rocks, or bushes to conceal your movements. Take advantage of the Gemsbok’s feeding or resting patterns to close the gap between you and your target. It is important to remain patient, move slowly, and take advantage of any shot opportunity that presents itself.

Blind Hunting

Setting up a ground blind or a tree stand near watering holes or feeding areas can be an effective strategy for taking a Gemsbok with your bow. However, it is crucial to camouflage your blind effectively and ensure that your scent is well-contained to avoid detection.

Shot Placement

Learn the anatomy of your quarry and where to place your arrow. Effective shot placement is a critical part of hunting to ensure a quick and humane kill.

Broadside Shot

Place your shot right behind the shoulder in line with the front leg, about one third of the way up from the bottom of the chest to the top of the back. This shot location results in a high heart/lung shot, leading to a quicker expiration of the gemsbok.

Quartering On Shot

We do not recommend the quartering on shot. These shots are high risk and should only be attempted by experienced bow hunters using bows with a draw weight in excess of 80 lb.

Quartering Away Shot

When taking a quartering away shot, avoid penetrating too much of the stomach content. Place the arrow to bisect the angle formed by the front legs, positioning it one third of the way up from the bottom of the brisket to the top of the back. Aim for the arrow to exit on the opposite front shoulder.

The Experience of Gemsbok Hunting in South Africa with a Bow

Taking a Gemsbok with archery equipment in South Africa provides not only an incredible hunting experience but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the breathtaking beauty of the African bushveld. Here are some aspects that make this experience truly remarkable:

Spectacular Scenery

The vast savannahs, rolling plains, and rugged terrains of Africa provide a picturesque backdrop for bow pursuing Gemsbok. The diverse flora and fauna create a unique atmosphere, offering a truly immersive experience in the heart of nature.

Adrenaline Rush

Pursuing Gemsbok is an adrenaline-pumping adventure. The excitement of getting in range for a shot, the thrill of being in close proximity to such magnificent animals, and the challenge of executing a perfectly placed shot create an unforgettable rush of emotions.

Cultural Enrichment

South Africa’s rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions add another layer of depth to the bow hunting experience. Engaging with local communities, learning about their customs, and embracing the African way of life can be an incredibly enriching aspect of the journey.

Gemsbok Trophy Quality

Gemsbok is renowned for its striking appearance, featuring long, symmetrical horns that make it a great trophy. Successfully harvesting a Gemsbok with a well-placed bow shot is an accomplishment that bow hunters treasure for a lifetime. Look for horn a length of between 35 and 42 inches on a good bull. Remember that the cow’s horns tend to curve quite a bit more than bulls and both sexes carry horns when you are looking over the herd. In conclusion, to bow hunt Gemsbuck in South Africa offers a thrilling and rewarding experience for hunters seeking a challenging African hunting Safari in a stunning natural environment. Book with a good outfitter for the best experience and probability of getting your trophy. By equipping yourself with the right gear, employing effective hunting techniques, and immersing yourself in the unique African landscape, you can make your bowhunting trip for Gemsbok a truly memorable one.

FAQ’s Frequently Asked Questions

What setup do I need for taking a Gemsbok with archery equipment?

For taking a Gemsbok archery equipment, you will need a reliable compound, recurve or crossbow with a draw weight of at least 60 pounds, durable arrows with broad heads designed for big game hunting, quality binoculars or a spotting scope, appropriate camouflage clothing, and essential hunting accessories such as a range finder, backpack, and knife.

What hunting techniques should I use for Gemsbok?

To increase your chances of a successful hunt, it is recommended to scout the area before beginning your hunt and look for fresh signs of Gemsbok. Stalking is a popular technique for Gemsbok, so begin stalking from a distance and use stealth and patience to get closer to your target.

How can I effectively spot Gemsbok from a distance?

Investing in quality binoculars of 10 X 40 magnification or a spotting scope is essential to spot Gemsbok from a distance. This will allow you to analyze their behavior, assess their trophy quality, and plan your approach accordingly.

Why is wearing appropriate camouflage clothing important for Gemsbok?

Wearing appropriate camouflage clothing that matches the natural surroundings is crucial for blending into the environment and avoiding detection by wary Gemsbok. Opt for lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the prevailing bush and weather conditions.

Adrian Anderson

Adrian Anderson first obtained his Professional Hunters licence in 1991. He is a Big Five licensed Professional Hunter and Hunting Outfitter. He has a tremendous love for wildlife and the African bush and enjoys sharing his knowledge with his hunting clients. Guiding hunters in Africa’s wild places is a passion and seeing them succeed with their goals brings satisfaction. With knowledge of the Safari hunting industry built up over 32 years he is well qualified to give guidance to his hunting clients.