Category: African Hunting

For the last 12,000 years, dog breeds for African hunting have been present as partners, companions to lift heavy items, and guard dogs. They are an expert in flushing, tracking, or retrieving games.

However, out of various popular hunting dog breeds, there are two uncommon yet incredible hunting dog breeds: Beagles and Parsons Terriers. These adorable-looking dogs may deceive you with their looks, but they are excellent when pursuing games.

Nonetheless, both have their unique characteristics and histories. In this blog post, we will explore their roles in the hunting world and their use so you can introduce a new breed to your hunting pack! So, let’s get started!

Parsons Terrier: One of the Best Dog Breeds for African Hunting

The Parson Terrier, or the Parson Russell Terrier, is a small and lively breed. They have an active and charming spirit with a passion for hunting.

It came into being as Jack Russell Terriers but was later changed to Parson Russell Terriers by AKC in 1997. They were initially hunting dogs. But later, their friendly and affectionate demeanor turned them into a loving family dog. Let’s dive deep into the world of Parson Terriers and learn about their distinctive characteristics and hunting nature.

Basic Characteristics

• Size: Parsons are small to medium-sized dogs, varying between 33-36 cm or 12-15 inches.
• Weight: Their tiny weights may vary between 13-17 pounds or around 5-8 kg.
• Coat: They have a shiny double coat. It’s a dense undercoat with a short -smooth, or rough- top coat. Parsons come in white with different color markings such as black, tan, lemon, brown, or tricolor.
• Shedding: They are moderate shedders all year. However, if you’re looking for hypoallergenic hunting dogs, jump to welovedoodles.com.
• Temperament: A small packet full of energy, loyalty, and eagerness to please. It has a lifespan of 13-15 years. PRTs require lots of fun activities, mental simulations, and training to keep them entertained and save your furniture. If they get bored, PRTs get very vocal (high barking level sometimes) and may become destructive.

They are known for their active and intelligent personalities. PRTs are not a good option for first-time owners as these tricky pets may jump off the fence or disappear down the hole with their tiny bodies. They require attentive owners and good training.

History

The history of Parson Terriers goes back to the 18th century when Reverend John Russell was aiming for a dog companion for fox hunting. Hence, the breed got its name from its owner, “Reverend John (The Sporting Parson) Rusell.

The British gentleman had two interests in life: ministry and fox hunting. So, he was searching for a perfect dog breed with long legs (to keep up with his horse’s pace) and small bodies to flush foxes from under the ground and holes. And have the resilience to confront and hunt the foxes.

After countless breeding, Russell found the perfect match and his way to fame. Rusell bred this dog to be an independent problem solver (which they have been to date).

Nonetheless, this breed took long enough to be recognized by any Kennel club. It was in 1990 that this breed got official recognition as a “Parson Jack Russell Terrier” of the Terrier group. Finally, the formal name changed to “Parson Russell Terrier” in 1999.

Hunting Instinct

As history suggests, this breed participates in England’s traditional “fox hunting” sport. They have a high drive to chase and catch prey.

They have intelligent expression with long legs and small bodies that makes them look like a stuffed toy. But don’t give in to the illusion of their appearance. They have the speed to keep up with Hounds and the strength to flush foxes from their lair.

They have high energy levels and a determined personality. But it also means leaving them under supervision around small animals such as small cats or dogs, rabbits, rats, or birds on the ground.

Did You Know

• PRTs are AKC’s 145th breed.
• Regardless of their hunting instinct, PRTs are great with children and make good family pets.
• They are experts in canine sports, including agility, obedience, and tracking.
• They can be good farm dogs as they are not afraid of big animals (horses, cattle, sheep).

The Parson Terrier is a small breed with notorious hunting abilities. With their distinctive combination of persistent attitude and cuddle-worthy appearance, this breed became famous as hunting dogs and lovable family pets.

Beagle: Feisty Hunter with Amiable Face Mask

This adorable breed ranks 8 in the AKC “Popular dog breeds” list. Have you seen Snoopy from Peanuts? That is a Beagle! This breed is famous for its cute appearance, but little are they known for their hunting abilities.

They have friendly behavior with families with a nose for everything good (at least good for them). They are perfect companions if you are going on a rabbit hunt. However, if you are aiming for a Coyote this time, we would still suggest an addition of Beagle to the pack.

Basic Characteristics

• Size: A small-sized breed varying between 13-16 inches.
• Weight: Slightly heavier than a Parson Terrier. Beagles weigh between 20-30 pounds.
• Coat: A dog breed with a dense double coat. Beagles have smooth, weather-resistant short coats, commonly tricolor (black, white, and brown patches).
• Shedding: They are among the top producers of dander. Sorry for people with allergies.
• Temperament: Beagles are famous for their friendly and social personalities. Although initially reserved with strangers, they enjoy making friends with pets and humans.

Their good temperament (with adorable faces and large pleading brown eyes) makes them a good family dog. However, what is the point of a guard dog if yours (Beagle) will befriend anyone after a minute? Nonetheless, they are naturally loud pets and bark at unusual things, making them good watchdogs.

History

During the 16th century, people of England had pack hounds for hunting. There were larger dog breeds to hunt deer and smaller breeds for rabbits. This smaller and compact breed is the ancestor of a Beagle.

The 19th-century Beagle we are familiar with today is the modern result of selective English importation and breeding. The previous Beagles were more similar to Dachshunds and beagles but with weaker heads.

Nonetheless, their spectacular sense of smell can track down injured or small prey and catch them. And they are ever since bred and renowned for their cunning nose.

Hunting Uses

People have been using Beagle’s ancestors to hunt small prey since before 55 B.C. To this day, they are primarily known to hunt small games.

Beagles are scent hounds, they use their nose to track and hunt. However, a hunter will own at least two Beagles for efficient hunting. And their friendly nature makes them great dogs to work in groups.

Beagles can also hunt (other than rabbits and hares) birds, squirrels, or bobcats. Or they can hunt larger animals such as wild boar, foxes, deer, and coyotes.

Did You Know

• The Beagles are known for their “Bay” hunting method. It is when they melodiously howl to share locations while hunting.
• Their smart nose has led them to different professions. They work as detectives to search for drugs or bedbugs. They are also found in airport security to search for food in passengers’ bags.
• In 2013, a Beagle named “Elvis” could smell to determine if a Polar bear was pregnant.
• Beagles were introduced in South Africa in the 20th century (and Parson Terriers in the 19th century). Both breeds were adaptable to Africa’s climate and soon became an integral part of their hunting programs.

A small breed with pleading eyes that looks like a plush toy; do we need more convincing to get a Beagle addition at home? Their amiable personality makes them great with kids. Although keeping their scent prowess in mind, you have to keep an eye on them because they find and eat anything that smells good.

Beagles And PRT in South Africa

With South Africa’s ample territory and diverse animals, hunting has a long history. They consider hunting as a sport, as well as protection.

South Africa has various kinds of hunting games. And Beagles and Parson Terriers have found their role in these games. Here are some names;

1. Small Game: Small games like rabbits and hares are abundant there. Beagles and Parson Terrier’s tracking skills help them to hunt small prey.
2. Birds: Beagle’s scent skills aid them in tracking waterfowl and non-waterfowl birds.
3. Farm Protection: Agriculture is among the top professions in Africa. And Parson Terriers are a valuable asset to hunt down rodents and keep the farm safe.
4. Sports: Africa also has various opportunities for sport hunting. Both breeds are advantageous in such competitions and events.

Conclusion

Parson Terriers and Beagles have a rich history of hunting. But they have unique characteristics and hunting skills. But their versatility to hunt small games, with larger animals like foxes and deer, make them an asset to the hunting world. But it doesn’t change them from being an affectionate family dog.

So, as a professional hunter or a dog lover, this blog post will give you an insight into these incredible breeds. They have contributed to a history of hunting. So, the next time you see a Beagle or a Parson Terrier, don’t forget that they are experts with an age-old hunting skill.

Back from superb African management and trophy hunt trip with Nick Bowker. The start was in 2019 when Nick posted a 20-animal cull hunt. My buddy and I booked for March 2020. Well, we all know what happened, so we went for 2021.

Thanks to our Prime Monster, traveling was too risky. Now, in 2022 we finally put it together. My self and my Great Nephew and buddy arrived on the 25th of May in Port Elizabeth, where Nick was waiting for us, and off to Bedford, we went for our African hunting safari.

We arrived at Nick’s home, a very British-style, rambling 170 yr old home. Nick has put a lot of effort into upgrades and renovations beautiful, comfy accommodations with great views.

We unpacked and checked the rifles. Once everyone was happy, we went out for a little afternoon drive for orientation. The rest will follow!

So as we left Nick’s place, I was impressed with the number of animals. Very few high fences and an amazing country. Open pastures to hills and valleys with heavy brush. As we came over one hill, we stopped to glass, and the 1st animal we spot is a large Sable. Not far away was another large Sable that was wide. As this had become an add-on Trophy for me, I immediately got interested.

First hunt on our Management and Trophy Hunt.

Nick said let’s keep looking, as one of his PHs keeps seeing a large Bull hanging around one of the main herds. A little farther and we spot another large Sable. As we are glassing, Nick says damn. He has broken 3-4 inches off one side. As I already have an excellent Sable, I am more than impressed with this old warrior.

Nick offers me a discount, and the chase is on. Exit the Bakkie and work into position. We finally get a decent shot at 275 yards; he buckles and then comes running toward us.

I shoot again, and it is a hit, but there is not much reaction. He stops, and I put the 3rd round in. He goes a short way and is down. Finishing shot and done old Bull shredded ear and battle scars. I couldn’t be happier at the start of our African management and trophy hunt.

Loaded and returned to Nicks for a refreshment, an excellent dinner, and a couple more refreshments. Not bad, considering our official hunt didn’t start till tomorrow.

About Nicks African Management and Trophy Package

So Nick’s 20-animal Cull package is five species- 4 of each Warthog, Springbok, Impala, Mountain Reed Buck, and Blesbok. 3 Culls of each and one trophy. The amount of animals is phenomenal, and Nick and crew make each trophy you take Proper. Todd and I were hunting two-on-1 with Nick for the 1st seven days until Nick’s Bakkie blew its brakes.

The only problem was his backup was a single Cab, as his other double cab had an engagement with a Kudu the week before and was in the body shop. My great-nephew was on a seven-animal Trophy package and hunting with his PH Nadine, a fine young lady from the area whose father is also a PH, and she is carrying on the family tradition. 30 yrs young but very skilled and a 9 yr Veteran as a PH. My great-nephew is a young Texan of 20 who grew up hunting and shares an outfitting operation in the family.

20 Animal South African Management Hunt Package

1 Hunter $6000

Eight days of hunting are all-inclusive for the following 20 animals. No day fee & inclusive of accommodation and meals

• 4 Impala Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 6Springbok Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 4 Warthog Boars
  (1 Trophy Boar)
• 2 Common Blesbok Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 2 White Blesbok Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 2 Mountain Reedbuck Rams(1 Trophy Ram)
• Add any Kudu Bulls at $400 per cull
  (All Non-Trophy)
• Add any Trophy Animals from our Trophy Fees Price List.

I was happy as I wanted to spend some time with Call hunting. I brought him because he is one of the finest young men I know, and it was a privilege to share the trip with him. Memories to last us forever. So Nick asked Nadine if she would mind if I were added to her duties. No problem, so off we went.

Trophy Hunts

Call was down to a Gemsbok and a Zebra, an add-on. We went to another property near Bedford a well-managed cattle ranch. The farm tracker hopped in, and off we went.

It constantly amazed me how these trackers/farmhands knew every little 2 track on the property. I had shot a Cull Fallow Deer stag here two days earlier lots of hills and beautiful brushy valleys.

As we approached the area we were to hunt, we bumped into a herd of Fallow Deer. The amount of game was phenomenal. I could shoot one more as a Cull. Nadine suggested a stalk as they seemed not very spooked. I declined as I wanted Call to get his Gemsbok.

The Bakkie parked on top of a tall hill. Nadine and Call headed for the valleys. They hadn’t been gone 5 minutes when out of the bottom came a nice Fallow Stag and stopped at 40 yards. I advised him he should move on as I can be tempted easily.

Gemsbok Trophy Hunt

Two and half hours later, we hear a shot followed by a call on the radio. I was to bring the Bakkie down as Call had his Gemsbok. We had no sooner crested the hill when a large herd of Gemsbok was calmly watching us. They had been within 4o hundred yds of the Bakkie all the time.

It took a while to get down to call Nadine. After a difficult stalk avoiding other animals and working the terrain, Call took a very old female with worn-down teeth, one shot at 90 yards. Call was very cautious of his shots and was proud of his patience.

We were heading to the skinning shed when we spotted a herd of fallows. A short stalk and I got a 225 yd shot. Hit a little back and not the best angle. No worries, as Nadine sent Flip her Jack Russel and had the Fallow bayed in no time. After a finishing shot, we went to the skinning shed and back to the Lodge for lunch. Fabulous lunch of Kudu burgers and chips a short nap, and we were off for my Trophy Impala.

Trophy Impala Hunt

As we were heading to the property, we spotted a herd of Springbok. As we glassed, Nadine and Call both said there he is. There was an excellent male that had outwitted them on three previous stalks.

After some stalking and careful locating, I was on the sticks. 256 Nadine says. One shot and the Springbok is mine. Beautiful animals. We carry on and start spotting Impala. 1st group doesn’t like our company.

Nadine says we need to get to the valley, where we have more cover. We start spotting Impala moving thru the brush, and a good Ram is located. We begin to stalk, but we constantly try to sort out which.

Nadine suggests we continue as they pass by us and see if they continue uphill. As we sneak down, I spot our Ram in the bush. I whisper to Nadine, and she says that’s him. One for me to beat the PH!

After he clears the tree, he turns full frontal at 100 yards. One shot off the sticks, and we are headed back for the skinning shed, followed by several adult beverages, appy’s, and a great dinner of sirloin steak cooked to perfection by Nick, another great day in the Eastern Cape on our African management and trophy hunt.

Kudu Trophy Hunt

Call’s main target animal was a Kudu. I believe it was the second day I had passed on the morning hunt. Jet lag and pre-trip work had me exhausted. Todd and Nick headed out, as did Call and Nadine. As Todd and Nick were spotting, they saw a great Cape Kudu on a steep brushy hillside.

Call, and Nadine went down the Cliff and steep hillside while Nick and Todd moved along the edge of the Cliff. The call was made as Nadine and Call were about 20 mins away. They hustled over, and the Kudu was still feeding. Nadine and Call made a stalk, and Call had to shoot at a steep downhill angle. At the shot, the Bull disappeared, but only several cows ran out.

The Kudu was spotted, and the location was radioed to Call and Nadine. Call’s admiration and appreciation for this trophy were worth the whole trip. He thought if that were all he got, his trip would be complete. Boy, was he in for a surprise?

Zebra Trophy Hunt

The following morning Nadine, Call, and I headed out for his add on Zebra. Another ranch close to Bedford. Beautiful property and buildings were immaculate. They had also added a guest lodge for holidays and hiking clients.

Not sure how big this property was, but it was huge it also held some monster Kudu! The 1st herd of Zebra we spotted had a lot of mares with young foals, so we left them alone. We picked up the property tracker and headed for the hills.

We found a second herd that had a good stallion. Off Call and Nadine went. These Zebra were spooky and took them down a valley, up a steep hill, back down a ravine, and onto a flat where Call finally got a full-frontal shot off the sticks at 175 yds. One-shot and DRT. Good job, young man. Beautiful Zebra with good markings. Loaded and headed back to the Lodge by 11:30 for lunch and nap.

African Management and Trophy hunt

After a nap, we left a little early for the afternoon hunt. With Call having completed his list, we were focused on finishing my Cull/Trophy list. I still had Warthog, Mtn Reedbuck, and Blessbok on my list. But we had seen some super Gemsbok, so away we went to add another trophy.

I got to the area close to Nick’s and found a herd immediately. In a bushy valley, but were able to have a good look. Nadine said there is a huge Bull and some old trophy Cows. As soon as they spotted the Bakkie, they got nervous. I got out of sight and gave them time to calm down. I started a stalk but got spotted. Too far for a shot, and getting nervous.

Nadine said we need to back out as we don’t want to spook them. She said the Bull was huge, and she wanted to get him. Hmm, very focused PH=large trophy! Nadine said we could get ahead of them with the Bakkie. Well, almost they were already there. Back off again, but this time we get ahead of them. Start a stalk but get spotted again.

My Monster Gemsbok

By this time, Nadine had got me revved. I had already had the lecture on shot placement and how tough these animals can be. We don’t want to be tracking a wounded Gemsbok till dark. More revved, thanks.

Nadine suggests we go to the top of the hill as the Gemsbok will be coming out on a flat just over the hill where we can get a good look. The shot might have some distance but lots of time for a calm, well-placed shot. Off we go and stop at the top of the about 200 yds from the edge looking over the flat. Exit the Bakkie and grab the sticks. We don’t make 10 ft, and the Gemsbok is on top of the hill.

We freeze, and they walk up in two groups. Look at the Bakkie and are not concerned. Nadine quickly spots the Bull and points him out to me. I am no Gemsbok pro, but I am a little concerned. He has very thick horns but is long for a Bull. Nadine assures me it is a Bull.

42-inch Gemsbok

About 180yds but is in a group of 4 or 5. I am waiting for a clear shot. Finally, clear and broadside. One-shot. Solid hit. It makes a small circle and is broadside again. Nadine says shoot again at the same time, and my gun goes off. Drops right there.

I always get an adrenaline rush after shooting an animal and would quit if I didn’t, but I hadn’t had the shakes since I was 25. I look over at Nadine; she is shaking as badly as I am. Call is trying to film it too. We all start laughing at each other. Call says Uncle Graham, and I didn’t think you ever got that excited. After 10 mins of calming down, we go over to see our trophy. 42″ Bull and not as old as we thought. He was well into his prime but not old and in great shape.

Blesbok African Management and Trophy Hunt

This morning we head out to hunt Blesbok. We had seen several herds in the previous days, but man, were they spooky. We arrived with Todd and Nick in one Bakkie and Nadine, Call, and I in the other. The idea was to split up and set up for an ambush as the trackers moved them around. Five minutes later, we got a call from Nick to get our butts over to them as they had spotted a large Warthog, and I was the only one left without a trophy.

Nick’s knowledge of his properties is incredible. He had got in front of the Warty to cut him off. When he turned back, I was ready. He stopped for a moment, trying to decide which way to go. Quick shot and a solid hit, but he took off running and knowing how tuff these critters can be. I tried a running shot but only got a termite mound. In mid-stride, he just dropped. Proper Boar, as Nick would put it.

African Management and Trophy Hunt

We carried on for Blesbok. The plan was for Todd and Nick to set up in one spot for an ambush and Nadine and me in another. We set up by a pond, and our sniper’s nest was a bank that Warthogs had dug out. It seemed like a good plan, but nobody had told the Blesbok. As the trackers tried to move the Gemsbok, they did, and twice they were within range and too bunched up for me to take a shot. After 2 hrs, we called it a day and searched for some culls.

Nadine found me an Impala. This was my best distance shot at 458 yds. DRT. After lunch and a nap, we head out for more culls. We go thru the hills and find a group of 4 Mountain ReedBok. Nadine says shoot that old female. 200 yards but not the best angle; hit but takes off over the hill. We looked for a while, and I said I don’t think it went this far. We start back to the start, and Nadine turns Flip loose downwind. 2 minutes and Flip has found it. Very tall grass and it is hard to see. Thanks, Flip.

Management Hunt

Head for another area and glass from the hilltop, move down and glass, and when we reach the bottom, we spot 2 Warthogs. As we glass, two more come on the same opening but closer. We head out to stalk them. As we move closer, we spot a duiker in a green patch of grass. Nice duiker, and it’s on my trophy list.

We work closely to get a good look, and Nadine says let’s go back and check the Warty. As we start back, another Duiker comes out and is immediately chased by the 1st. Nadine says that was an excellent Ram and was I willing to sneak around and forego the Warts for a bit. You bet, and slowly we move thru the flat from bush to tree to bush. As we both are about to clear a tree there, he is 50 yds and feeding,

We back up to the tree, and Nadine says can you shoot thru the bush. Bang, she jumped and said damn, you’re fast. I had made her jump, and she lost sight of the Ram. Did you hit it? I don’t know, but there is a little white patch in the grass where it was standing. Beautiful Duiker Ram. When we returned to the Bakkie, Call said we looked like we were drunk with all our back and forth and wobbling around. Off to the Lodge for Appys, beverages, and supper. Life is tough here on the Eastern Cape!

African Management and Trophy Hunt

2nd last morning. I still have 2 Trophies on my Cull Hunt. Blesbok and Mtn Reed Buck. Off we go in search of Mtn. Reedbuck. The short drive behind Nick’s house, we spot an excellent Ram. Three hundred twenty-five yds, solid rest with the 6.5-06. 1st shot is high, 2nd shot is to the right, and 412 is just over the top.

There was some wind, but not that bad. I had the 06 riding in the back for the last few days as I wanted to use my 7×64 and make a bullet comparison. Maybe it got bumped; perhaps I was having a bad morning. I’ll figure it out when I get home. As we continue, we spot numerous groups of Reedbuck, but Nadine says no exceptional Rams.

Off to glass some distant hills. We spot a group in the valley that has an outstanding Ram. We get spotted, and they head for the open top of the mountain. Nadine says we are going to back out and come back after lunch as they will come back here to bed as this is their little valley. OK? As we approach the same area, they are all bedded in the same little valley. Back to the Lodge for lunch, nap, and head out early.

Mountain Reedbuck Hunt

We try a different approach and get to a spot where we can glass. Some are lying down, some are moving, and Nadine spots the Ram lying down behind a bush. She says we need to wait as he will get up and give us a clear shot versus trying to stalk them with too many eyes. We are watching and waiting when I catch movement out of the corner of my eye.

I swing over, and it’s another Ram. He runs 35 yards and stops broadside. Nadine taps my shoulder, and bang. DRT. She looks at me and says damn, your fast. Guess she’s never hunted coyotes in Alberta or Saskatchewan. He had been bedded 80 yards from where we were glassing. Not sure if he was as big as the one we were watching, but he still went over 7″.

Drop him off at the skinning shed, and we head out for a cull of Springbok and Warthog. 10 mins later, a Cull Springbok runs out and stops at 125 yds. Last Springbok down on to find a Warty. The afternoon had turned windy and cool. Only saw 3 Wart’s off and running. I cruised around some more but did not see much. We headed back for the evening.

Last Day

Unfortunately, this is the last day. Todd, Nick, Nadine, and I head out for our Blesbok. We split up when we arrive. Trying to get up on the Blessbok is difficult. The wind is blowing, and they are spooky. Todd manages to snipe a Trophy as we move them around. I am on them several times, but either to group up or take off before I can get a shot. Finally, get a long shot well over 300 and make a bad shot. Spend another 20 mins before I get another distant shot that stops him. We move closer and a finishing shot. We keep going for my last Blessbok Cull, and I drop one at just under 400, which requires a finishing shot a beautiful white female.

Warthog African Management and Trophy Hunt

Todd got his cull, and we were off. I still had 2 Warthog Culls left. Nadine had said that morning when we left that it would not be a good Warthog day as it was cool, overcast, and windy. As we were driving back, we started to see Warty’s. The sun had come out, and it had warmed up a bit. We were driving thru open pastures, and every time we spotted Warthogs, they took off with no shot. We came to a little Valley that went for a mile or so. Nadine suggested we walk as the Warthogs should be heading for a midday Siesta.

We had walked about 50 yds when we spotted a pig in the valley. As we glassed him, he got into some brush and didn’t come out. A little farther and a Sow with piglets. Then another 100yds, and I said, Nadine. 175 yards to our right, headed for the valley, was a big boar. Up went the sticks. As I got him in the scope, I noticed a large tusk. Damn trophy. Then he turned and had broken off his other tusk. I heard shoot. About 150 yds, one shot and done. Huge old Boar with scars and a calloused face with trophy warts as big as his ears. Loaded in the Bakkie and on the way back to the Lodge, we spot another group, and Nadine picks out a female and done in one. Back for lunch and the end of our African management and trophy hunt.

Contact me on Africa Hunting.

An African plains game safari is something I have always dreamt of. My name is Sol Griffith, and I run Diamond Z Outdoors. We are a small (but growing) organization dedicated to wildlife conservation, promoting fair-chase hunting, preservation, and care of public land, and introducing the sportsman way of life to new hunters.

Growing up, I was an avid reader, and Green Hills of Africa by Ernest Hemingway and African Game Trails by Theodore Roosevelt were always my first choices. I read both ten times each. I had a deep passion for hunting in Africa from an early age, and hunting the Dark Continent has always been a dream.

Video from our Hunt in Africa

When are you planning your African Plains Game Safari?

This last fall, I finally had the opportunity to make that dream a reality and booked an African plains game safari with Nick Bowker Hunting in South Africa.

I chose to hunt with Nick because, first and foremost, he runs a low-fence, free-range operation with no captive-bred or planted animals.

The second reason was the hunting value – 7 animals for an unbeatable price. 

Nick was great to work with, and very understanding as we ran into some difficulties with getting dates worked out, but it all came together.

My wife shot a beautiful impala ram and a cull warthog as well. I have already booked my next African plains game safari, and I cannot wait to return to South Africa.

I have an easy time telling a story with video than words. So I will let the videos tell the story.

As an amateur movie maker, I captured all the hunts on video and have the videos attached. I hope you will enjoy watching them, and please leave any comments below.

It was a real hunt, we got lucky with a few animals, but we worked for the others. All-in-all, I ended up harvesting eight animals, seven trophy animals, and one cull on my African plains game safari.

• Kudu
• White Blesbok
• Impala
• Springbuck
• Warthog
• Mountain Reedbuck
• Black Wildebeest
• Cull Springbuck

The Hunt of a Lifetime in South Africa and review – Nick Bowker Hunting

After much research for my African Hunt, I chose Nick Bowker Hunting in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Here is my African hunting review of Nick Bowker Hunting.

It took me nearly 68 years to determine I could hunt in South Africa. And it didn’t require being a millionaire to make it happen. I took eight trophies and was treated like a king. All this for less than a guided Montana Elk Hunt, a far lower percentage of taking just one trophy class bull.

Don’t get me wrong. I will never stop chasing the great Wapiti in my home state. I have 400+ bulls hanging on my wall; however, South Africa is the answer when it all comes down to the hunt of a lifetime.

Covid delayed our hunt by a year. My wife Wendy, my son Daniel, and my daughter-in-law Jodi accompanied me. We departed Billings, Montana, on March 29, 2021. Our flight took us to Denver, then, after 11 hours, to Frankfurt, Germany. Followed by a 13-hour layover, then on to Johannesburg for a 10+ hour flight, then a 4-hour layover in Joberg, then a short 1½-hour flight to Port Elizabeth. Nick Bowker met us at the airport himself in his Land Cruiser. I need to own one someday.

Arrival in South Africa

Following a 90-minute drive to OliveFountain Farm, we were met by Ben, another PH. As well as Nick’s wife, Elizabeth, and their twin daughters. They were on holiday from school and were an absolute delight. I also hired a videographer company with Nick’s recommendation. Igala Productions was very cost-effective and assisted in spotting game that I had trouble locating, even with binoculars. Igala provided their regular video expert plus a trainee for only $2,600.

That figure was exceptional. I can’t recommend Igala enough if you can request Nadeen to be your videographer, although Steven and Purin were fantastic. Nadeen was an excellent addition to our hunt and has “eagle eyes” to locate animals.

Accommodation Review – Nick Bowker Hunting

The facilities at OliveFountain can only be described as “simply the best.” Homesteaded in the early 1800s, the complex has been in Nick’s family for five generations and has significant updates. Hence, you experience all the modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, plenty of hot water, and private rooms with beds that will make you sleep like a baby.

Embarrassingly, our kids were up and checking out rifles only about 5 yards from my cabin on the first morning of our hunt. They were firing .300 Winchester Magnums rounds downrange, and I did not wake up. I might add my wife slept through my shooting as well. Suddenly, I awoke to find the sun shining in my window and the Land Cruiser leaving with Ben at the wheel and the kids loaded up. I quickly dressed, demonstrated I could at least hit a Barn Door off sticks, grabbed a coffee, and headed out for my first hunting session.

Relaxed about my sleeping in, Nick just passed it off as jet lag. I made sure it didn’t happen again. We then loaded up with Nick, myself, and Nadeen, searching for whatever was presented that day. Our three trackers, plus “Bella” and “Black Jack,” were in the back of the rig, anxiously awaiting what beast would present itself. Bella is a beagle with an incredible nose, and Black Jack is a Jack Russel Terrier that I have trouble describing. He is tough and fast, yet when HE decides to snuggle you, he is lying on your lap and expecting a good scratch.

Some tips

In session 1, Nick suggested we go on a walkabout and look for a warthog since it was later in the morning. He spotted a great hog in the creek bottom before long that presented a broadside shot at a little over 200 yards. Here is where I learned my first lesson. I used Nick’s Saco .300 Winchester Magnum with a top-end Swaroski range finder scope. I ranged the “tusker,” then promptly used the cross-hairs instead of the red ranged cross and shot a few inches under the hog. Rule number one pay attention to Nick’s explanation. I did not make that mistake again.

Rule number two, if Nick or Ben says it is a “photogenic animal,” shoot it. You will not be disappointed. On the other hand, if they tell you, it needs another year or two to grow, listen, then come back another year to take that trophy when it has grown up. I quickly learned that the eye-site of the PH, Videographer, and Trackers is better without binos than mine with them. At times I swear they pulled animals from underground for me to stalk.

Session 2: After a great brunch and a nap, we headed out for the afternoon and evening hunt. Although we saw hundreds of animals of all species literally, Nick kept informing me, “there are better ones to pursue. So, we headed back to the farm headquarters for an evening of getting better acquainted, having a glass of relaxing agent, and a dinner that exceeds anything you could find in New York, although I think New York Sucks.

Food Review

At this point, I need to interject a message about Elizabeth, Nick’s better half, that spends hours in the kitchen with her assistants preparing side dishes and desserts that are nothing short of fabulous. She is a real “keeper.” Elizabeth also took Wendy and Jodi to Addo Elephant Park and Port Elizabeth to see elephants and for some shopping.

Black Wildebeest

Session 3: I want you to know I was up in time for coffee and to catch my ride at 6:30 am. Nick promptly took me to a pasture with again hundreds of animals, and 2 Black Wildebeest appeared; junior and grandpa. By no means did Nick pressure me to shoot one, but he did say he would trade me out for other animals in my package since this beast was not on my list. So, how could I say no? I gave him the go-ahead, and he led my stalk into a reasonable distance for a shot.

Nick sent the trackers around the back of the beasts when “grampa” and “Junior” started in our direction. Placed on sticks, I punched a hole in the beast, of which he reared up in the air and sold out for distance regions. At about 160 yards, I gave him a heart attack and put my first animal in the books.

Gemsbok hunt review – Nick Bowker Hunting

Session 4: We were off again after a great brunch and rest. This time, I had told Nick if a Gemsbok got in the way, I would certainly be interested, even though it was not on my package. So, I guess it was inevitable a herd of gemsbok appeared, and after a long stalk, Nick told me which one was a shooter. I dumped a beautiful Gemsbok off the sticks at 206 yards in its tracks.

Nyala hunt review – Nick Bowker Hunting

Session 5: In pursuit of a Kudu or Nyala, we got into a bachelor herd of Nyala Bulls, which Nick led me into a shooting position, and again I dropped the bull at 244 yards in his tracks. He had no idea we were even there. Ironically, following my shot, a nice Kudu Bull blew out no more than 10 yards to my right; however, I had no time to get a shot off. By now, I was feeling like a great hunter when it was the leadership of Nick, our trackers, and videographers.

Impala

Session 6: After Coffee and Toast, we headed for another day. We had not traveled more than a couple of miles from camp before we found a herd of Impala. Somehow, I was brought back to earth after missing a 150-yard shot-off sticks. When I pulled the trigger, I knew my bullet would land in another time zone. Why? I sucked. So Nick took me on a short stalk and located where the herd of Impala went. I didn’t mess up this time at 260 yards, and we had another animal for the bag.

Session 7: Out we went, and I had an excellent opportunity to take a Springbok. I don’t know how I missed it, as I swear it was nearly sitting on the rifle’s barrel. Possibly, it had nine lives like a cat because I will never know how I missed it. I blamed Nick for a faulty loaded bullet, and he just agreed and said we needed to move on. His patience with me was beyond believable.

Kudu

Session 8: Although we saw hundreds of animals, none of them met Nick’s standards., Again, his knowledge and expertise far exceeded anyone I have hunted with. He is ethical, safety-minded, and patient with guys like me.

Session 9: So many animals, but none meet Nick’s standards. Something I want to point out is that it is not about trophy class animals; it is about taking animals over the hill. Nick won’t shoot breeding animals with great genetics, he is only about taking out the old guys that likely would not make it through the winter, and yes, South Africa does have winter.

Session 10: Again, no trophy class animals. That wasn’t the case with my kids, as my son took an incredible Kudu and Sable. I’m jealous.

Session 11: we traveled north a bit and saw many good Kudu but not great animals, according to Nick. He kept telling us there was a better trophy, so the other Land Cruiser brought us lunch; session 12 changed things completely.

We came upon a herd of 7 bulls, of which three broke off. The remainder made my blood pressure sky-rocket. A white-horned bull was in front of the bull Nick told me to take. For the following 15 minutes, whenever the white-horned bull would move, the one I was supposed to shoot moved with him. Finally, I had a few seconds, and Nick said to drop the hammer. He went down like a ton, then up he came, and I had to finish the job after covering about 50 yards.

Fallow Deer hunt review

Session 12: we pursued a Fallow Deer Buck but didn’t find the big guy, although my interpretation and Nick’s differed. Fortunately, I had the sense to shut up and listen to Nick. We saw several good bucks, but my slow preparation to shoot exceeded the bucks’ willingness to stay put. Again, Nick was calm and put up with my screw-up.

Session 13: We sought a nice fallow deer, and I connected at 160 yards. I pulled the trigger. It is a beautiful animal and will make a great mount. I am proud of the beast and owe my success to everyone else.

Waterbuck

Session 14: Understand that a short, fat English-Irishman nearly 68 years old is not an outfitters/guide’s ideal candidate for a hunt. That said, Nick and his crew did everything to make my (our) hunt exceptional. That describes me perfectly.

That afternoon, Nick spotted a trophy waterbuck above us, along with several Kudu and waterbok Cows. He “nursed” me into position up a steep grade and at quite a distance. Yes, he kept telling me it was only another 100 yards when it was 600 yards, but I bought into it.

Finally, we arrived at a point where I would have a shot if and when the bull came out of the brush. After a long wait, Nick said, don’t move and be silent; a cow had moved down within 10 yards of us. I could not see her, but I followed Nick’s lead, and when the bull stepped out at 286 yards, I put one in the boiler room. He went down, back up, and I put another round far back. He again went down, and I put another in his boiler room for good.

Session 15: Off to Grahamstown for a Covid Test. Although Nick never complained, and it worked out, what a waste of a hunting session.

Warthog

Session 16: The last two animals we pursued were a warthog for me and a Fallow Deer for my son. Thanks to Ben, my son dropped a monster Fallow Deer in the late hours of his last session, and I dropped a Warthog at 4:00 p.m. of our previous session at 386 yards.

Everything else aside, it was about something other than getting our animals. It was about the experience of getting to know people halfway around the world. I can’t say enough about the excellent treatment we received and the friendships we gained. Before I cross over, I must go and spend time with our new friends they are: “simply the best.”

Thank you, Nick, Ben, Elizabeth, Nadeen, Purin, Steven, and everyone else. God’s best blessings to you and yours.

Hunting with no fences or low-fenced African hunting (meant to control sheep, not the wild game) was a priority. Nick’s hunting areas fit the bill. The number and variety of animals blew us away.

Low-Fenced African Hunting with Nick Bowker

This was my first African hunt, but I’ve hunted with outfitters in the Midwest and the Western US. The outbreak of Covid 19 made an extraordinary hunting trip.

The world seemed to turn on its head during the seven days we were in South Africa. Despite the fact COVID-19 was hanging over most of the hunt, I couldn’t be happier with how it all went.

The quick progressions of world events related to Covid-19 made the hunt a bit more surreal. We were not looking at our phones on purpose, but that didn’t last once we heard about the travel bans. Nick had clients start canceling because they couldn’t get to SA or faced a quarantine once they got home.

It was a stressful time for both Nick and Benjamin, and while we could tell it was causing problems. They in no way let it impact our trip. We all did our best to have a great hunt despite the world seemingly grinding toward a halt.

Our flight out of Johannesburg had 60+ open seats two days before we left. But it was loaded to the gills as people changed plans to get home once SA travel bans were announced. We ended up leaving on schedule two days before South Africa essentially closed its “airline” borders to foreign travelers.

Planning and Logistics for our Low fenced African Hunting Trip

My fiance planned This trip relatively last minute as a 50th birthday present.

She contacted a few Outfitters. Nick responded quickly and indicated he had a recent cancellation the week we were looking at.

We tossed a few hunting ideas around before settling on a package. The package included a Nyala, Impala, Kudu, Gemsbok, and Warthog. Since my fiance wanted to be along on the hunts, we added a daily rate and Warthog for her.

We contacted Nick initially through BookYourHunt.com and used that as our primary communication source. We switched to using WhatsApp the day before our arrival.

Nick did a great job of keeping in touch and updated. He is the one that pointed out that South African airlines were having trouble. And suggested we might want to rebook British Airways for the flight from JHB to Port Elizabeth.

Arrival

Nick was standing outside the arrival doors when we got there, helped us with our bags, and drove us to the lodge.

It was a tremendous 2-hour drive, although it rained most of the way there. We could ask questions, understand the daily routine, and get acquainted.

Nick was easy to talk to and didn’t seem the least bothered by getting peppered with questions by enthusiastic rookies!

Upon arrival, we met Benjamin, a PH that works with Nick.

Facilities

Nick’s clients stay at his home, a sprawling group of separate and connected buildings. These include the main house, guest rooms, a cabin for 1-2 guests, a bar, a braai/dinner area, as well as work sheds, garages, staff quarters, etc.

We stayed in a separate cabin, which was terrific small, rustic, modern at the same time, and extremely comfortable. The bed was amazingly comfortable; there was a great walk-in shower, a huge tub, a bathroom, and a sink.

The house seems like an older farm/ranch house, with additions to accommodate larger hunting parties.

Nick has WiFi that runs on power when it is on. (It sounds like consistent power in many parts of SA is tough to come by). When the power is off, Nick kicks on the generator.

The inconsistent power didn’t impact us at all. Nick made it relatively seamless with the generator. We loved the house and couldn’t have felt more comfortable.

We weren’t there to stay connected we wanted the opposite. We were doing well with that until the news of COVID’s expansion started, making it necessary for us to connect.

Staff

Nick has a great staff. The people preparing breakfast and cleaning the rooms were on top of it.

Our room was cleaned each time we left (in the morning and again in the afternoon), and our laundry was done daily. Nick’s hunting staff were also great.

Cheerful and helpful, they helped make each hunt better. Benjamin is also an excellent PH (more on that later), easy to talk to, friendly, and always looking for ways to improve your trip.

He often said while doing something for you, “Don’t worry about it; I’ll do it. You’re on holiday!”

Food and Routine

The food was incredible. There were always baked goods available, and we usually ate a muffin before heading out in the morning. We typically were back by 11 or 12 for brunch, which was also excellent.

Over the six days of hunting, we had kudu sausage, eggs, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, hamburgers, fries, pork, and probably five other things. Dinners were made by a woman Nick has hired only to handle dinners, and she crushes them.

Every dinner consisted of appetizers, a main dish often cooked by Nick or Benjamin over the Braai, and dessert.

We ate lots of wild game, beef, and lamb, and there was always at least one perfect side dish, often South African favorites.

We drank beer and wine each night (Nick asked what we liked to drink before arriving) and had a blast at dinner time by the fire.

Rifles

We opted to use Nick’s rifles rather than bring our own. A great choice in light of all the airline issues and COVID-19. As a result, we could also travel light (only carry-ons)

We shot from a bench and sticks. After I shot, I went out with Benjamin to look around/hunt while my fiance stayed back to ensure she was comfortable shooting from the sticks.

We had gone shooting before, but this allowed her to get comfortable with Nick’s guns and for him to get comfortable with her shooting.

After that morning, we hunted together during our low-fenced African hunting safari.

Low-fenced African Hunting Area

Nick hunts on his land, his family’s land, and other extensive tracts with hunting rights. There is a great variety of land, and we didn’t see all of it by any means.

Nick has a big sheep operation and runs the hunting on his property, so there are some low fences for the sheep.

Hunting with no fences or low-fenced African hunting (meant to control sheep, not the wild game) was a priority.

Nick’s low-fenced African hunting areas fit the bill. The number and variety of animals blew us away.

Selective Hunting

This being my first time hunting in Africa, I was excited. Rather than discuss each hunt, I wanted to pull out some things that stood out to me. Nick and Benjamin were very selective.

Everyone is different, but for me, the hunt is essential. I like to shoot nice trophies, but not at the expense of a good hunt. I prefer to shoot an average trophy on a great hunt instead of a great trophy on an average hunt.

That said, Benjamin and Nick didn’t want to compromise on either. The Nyala hunt was in an area that was pretty easy to get to (the first day). We worked hard for all the other trophies in the low-fenced African hunting area.

Nick and Benjamin did their best to ensure we got the best of both worlds.

Low-Fenced African Impala Hunt

Nick and Benjamin worked their butts off, ensuring we got the animals we came for. My impala hunt was terrific.

Benjamin kept getting us close to a large ram, but something always messed it up: hogs busting out of the bush, an unforeseen Mountain Reedbuck, and skittish Springbok.

We chased it back and forth across the valley. We could get in a position for a great shot, and we had no idea where we were.

Benjamin did a great job keeping us on the ram; it was a fantastic hunt.

Kudu Hunt

I made a shot that wasn’t ideal on my kudu hunt. The animal wasn’t going anywhere, but it needed another shot. Wound up; I pulled the trigger for the second shot. There was that loud “click” that only comes from not having reloaded.

Benjamin recognized I wasn’t squeezing the trigger but yanking it back excitedly. He perfectly said, “Squeeze the trigger. It’s just what I needed then, but it stayed with me for the rest of the trip.

Warthog Hunt

We spent the last couple of days chasing Warthogs. It sounded like they were generally shot while pursuing something else; that was not our situation.

Given the vast amount of rain (Drought-ending) falling in our hunting area, the hogs didn’t need to move much to get food and water.

We were early, and the boars weren’t pushing the sows. This made it so that getting a big Warthog was the most challenging part of the hunt.

They did not give up despite the weather not wanting to cooperate. We pushed hard for hogs, resulting in a gnarly old boy for my fiance and an excellent pig for me.

Nick and Benjamin did a great job with her. They put her in a great position, and she made a great shot. (I think she is better off the sticks than I am.)

Final Hunt on our low-fenced African Hunting Safari

The last hunt (for my hog) displayed Nick and Benjamin’s hunting skills. We saw good pigs at least a mile away and started the quest.

Given the weather (some rain, but cool and overcast) and that it was the last day of our hunt, the pursuit of this boar seemed to be the last pig chase we were going to get.

We had a strong wind, which helped a ton, but we knew it would be tricky given the distance we had to travel. We ran into duiker, rabbits, mountain reedbuck, and impala.

Each time I thought we were screwed, but Nick and Benjamin played it perfectly, and we could thread the needle and catch up to the hogs.

After the boar was down, we all started laughing. None of us could believe we made it through all those eyes, ears, and noses that seemed to threaten the hunt constantly.

We laughed a ton. Nick and Benjamin are a lot of fun by the end of the trip, it felt like hunting with old friends. That only adds to the low-fenced African hunting experience and memories and is precisely what I’m looking for in this trip: great hosts, intelligent and talented guides, and good people.

Business Wrap-Up and Departure 

After the hog hunt and before dinner last night, Nick and I wrapped up and settled the bill. This was a painless process; he walked me through the account without surprises. (Other than my bank not authorizing purchases in SA like they said they did on the phone and email). But we got that sorted out, and Nick made it easy.

The next day our flight out of Port Elizabeth didn’t leave until 3:30 pm, so Nick offered to drive us through Addo elephant park on our way to the airport.

He was a fantastic Park guide as well. We had a blast, and we’re very thankful for his generosity and time, which was a great way to end the trip. Since we left, Nick has texted to make sure we made it back alright, check how we deal with COVID, and keep me updated on taxidermy stuff.

Bottom Line

I’m already trying to figure out when I can get back and which friends I can talk to join me. Nick Bowker receives my highest recommendation for the reasons I’ve mentioned (And probably 50 other minor reasons I haven’t). He is better than any Outfitter I’ve ever used.

I’m an adventurous person and love meeting new people; however, because Nick and his PH Benjamin made this trip so incredibly, I wonder if I’ll ever hunt with anyone else in South Africa. We had a great hunt with great people. What else can you ask for?