Are you an avid hunter looking for an exhilarating and challenging hunting experience? If so, bow hunting for Bushbuck in South Africa might just be the adventure you’ve been dreaming of. With its diverse terrain, rich wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, South Africa offers an unparalleled opportunity for bow hunters to test their skills and immerse themselves in the thrill of the hunt. A bow hunt in South Africa will be remembered for the rest of your life.
The Bushbuck – Master of Thick Bush
Before we dive into the details of hunting Bushbuck, let’s take a closer look at this interesting animal. The Bushbuck, scientifically known as Tragelaphus scriptus, is a medium-sized antelope species native to sub-Saharan Africa. With its striking reddish-brown coat, white spots, and beautifully twisted horns, the Bushbuck is a beautiful animal and one of the spiral horn slam. An good trophy ram will have horns of 13 – 17 inches in length.
Bushbucks are known for their elusive nature, making them a challenging target for bow hunters. With their exceptional camouflage and ability to disappear into thick vegetation, tracking and successfully harvesting a Bushbuck requires tons of patience, archery skills, and a deep understanding of their behavior.
The Perfect Hunting Ground: South Africa
South Africa boasts an abundance of game species, making it a popular destination for hunters from around the world. When it comes to bow hunting Bushbuck, South Africa offers a variety of prime hunting locations that cater to seasoned hunters.
Mpumalanga:
Located in the eastern part of South Africa, Mpumalanga is a region known for its varied landscapes, ranging from grassy plains to dense riverine forests. These varied habitats provide an ideal environment for Bushbucks, offering ample opportunities for bow hunters to test their skills.
Limpopo:
Situated in the northernmost part of the country, Limpopo is home to numerous game reserves and private hunting concessions. The vast bushveld areas found here make it a prime destination for bow hunting enthusiasts seeking a challenging Bushbuck hunt.
Eastern Cape:
For those looking to combine a Bushbuck hunt with a scenic coastal getaway, the Eastern Cape is the perfect choice. This region’s mix of rolling hills, dense thickets, and open plains provides an exciting hunting experience amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Essential Equipment for Bow Hunting Bushbuck
To embark on a successful bow hunt for Bushbuck, it’s crucial to have the right equipment in your kit. Here are some essential items every bow hunter should consider:
Bow:
Choose a bow that suits your skill level and personal preferences. Compound bows are popular among bow hunters due to their power and accuracy. A compound bow of between 55 and 70 pounds will get the job done. A good alternative choice is a powerful crossbow, this will extend your effective range out to around 80 meters.
Arrows:
Opt for carbon fiber arrows that are lightweight yet durable. Ensure that your arrows are well-matched to your bow’s draw weight for optimal performance. A total arrow weight of between 400 and 450 grains is perfect.
Broad heads:
Select broad heads specifically designed for hunting. Choose either cut on contact fixed blade or mechanical broad heads of between 100 to 150 grains, choose broad heads known for their reliability and penetration capabilities. Make sure that your broad heads are razor sharp.
Rangefinder:
A good rangefinder will help you accurately determine the distance to your target, allowing for more precise shots.
Camo Clothing:
Invest in top quality camouflage clothing that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment, increasing your chances of staying undetected.
Price to Hunt Bushbuck
The price to hunt Bushbuck is $ 1 650.
Techniques and Tips for Successful Bushbuck Bow Hunting
Bow hunting Bushbuck requires a combination of stealth, loads of patience, and strategic thinking. Here are some techniques and tips to maximize your chances of a successful hunt:
Scouting:
Before venturing into the bush, spend time scouting the area to identify key signs of Bushbuck presence, such as tracks, droppings, or feeding grounds. This will help you determine the best hunting areas to spend your time in.
Concealment:
Bushbuck have excellent eyesight and a keen sense of hearing, so it’s essential to keep movement to a minimum and remain concealed. Use natural cover, such as trees or thick vegetation, to your advantage, and move slowly and quietly to avoid alerting your quarray.
Scent Control:
Bushbuck rely heavily on their sense of smell to detect predators. Employ scent control measures, such as using scent-eliminating sprays and hunting with the wind in your favor, to minimize the chances of being scented.
Shot Placement:
Shot placement is critically important, aim to reach the vital organs, such as the heart or lungs, to ensure a clean and ethical kill. Practice shooting from various distances to improve your accuracy and become comfortable with shooting from different angles.
Patience:
Successful Bushbuck bow hunting requires patience and the willingness to wait for the perfect shot opportunity. Avoid rushing your shot, as this can lead to wounded animals and a less satisfying hunting experience. Also remember that a wounded ram can be dangerous so follow up with caution.
Conservation and Ethical Considerations
As responsible bow hunters, it’s crucial to prioritize wildlife conservation and adhere to ethical hunting practices. When bow hunting Bushbuck in South Africa, always ensure you are legally entitled hunt on the land and have obtained the necessary permits and permission.
Always practice fair chase principles, only taking shots within your effective and ethical range. Respect the animals you pursue, and never take shots that you are not confident will result in a clean kill.
Conclusion
Bow hunting Bushbuck in South Africa offers an exciting adventure for passionate bow hunters seeking a challenging and rewarding experience. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and thrilling hunting opportunities, South Africa is a dream destination for those looking to test their skills and immerse themselves in the beauty of the bushveld.
Remember, successful bow hunting requires plenty of skill, patience, and respect for the animals and the environment. So, pack your gear, embark on a thrilling adventure, and create unforgettable memories as you pursue the elusive and majestic Bushbuck in the heart of South Africa.
Always consult local regulations and seek guidance from experienced hunters or a professional hunting outfitter before planning your bow hunt for Bushbuck in South Africa.
FAQ’s Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Bushbuck?
A Bushbuck is a beautiful medium-sized antelope species native to sub-Saharan Africa known for its reddish-brown coat, white spots, and twisted horns.
Why is Bushbuck hunting challenging?
Bushbuck hunting is challenging because they have exceptional camouflage and the ability to disappear into thick vegetation, requiring patience and a deep understanding of their behavior to be successful.
Where are the best locations for bow hunting Bushbuck in South Africa?
The best locations for bow hunting Bushbuck in South Africa are Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and the Eastern Cape provinces, each offering diverse landscapes and prime hunting opportunities these sought after animals.
What equipment is considered essential for bow hunting Bushbuck?
Essential equipment for bow hunting Bushbuck includes a good compound, recurve or crossbow, carbon fiber arrows, sharp broad heads, a camouflage outfit, binoculars, and a hunting knife.
Adrian Anderson first obtained his Professional Hunters license in 1991. He is a Big Five and Dangerous Game licensed Professional Hunter and Hunting Outfitter. He has a tremendous love for wildlife and the African bush and enjoys sharing his knowledge with the hunting clients that he guides. Guiding hunters in Africa’s wild places is a passion and seeing them succeed with their goals brings satisfaction. With knowledge of the Safari industry built up over 32 years he is well qualified to give guidance to his hunting clients.