what time is best?

[ajfab]

I am just in the final prosese of sorting my hunting trip to south Africa next year.
we are going out to shot kudu, gemsbok, impala, blesbok, warthog, springbok, blue and black wildebeest, and possible zebra.
now what I am needing to know is when is the best time of year to go.
I would sooner here from guys who have been out, and there recommendations. and not those of the agent that is trying to sell a trip that suits his requirements of filling in spare weeks.
we are going for two weeks in the east cape area.
thanks

 

[Safari Hunter]

Depends on your thoughts on the weather? Jan/Feb/Mar is hot. I prefer April/May when it can be hot but generally cooler.
If you are trophy hunting anytime between April-October is good. If you are culling there will be females shot and they may well be pregnant towards the end of the year.
I find most clients prefer April to June. If you need any further info let me know.
Cheers
Adrian

 

[ejg]

I just came back from the eastern cape last week. Weather was great, just right to go for a walk.
We had daytime temperatures between 19 and 30 deg at Mayogi Safaris close to Kirkwood.
edi

 

[ajfab]

what was you out there to shoot?
was thinking of mid to late april?

 

[Safari Hunter]

Mid to late April is my preferred time, nice and warm and good hunting. If you need any help let me know.
Cheers
adrian

 

[Linda]

Hi. Great to see fellow members shooting with my outfitters Mayogi Safaris. We have visited twice in August chilly in the morning and evening but pleasant throughout the day, last year went in September again weather was nice, this year late October into November so hopefully even nicer. Whatever the weather you will have an amazing experience, if you need any assistance with outfitters, dos and do nots, feel free to emai me on Linda.mayogi@ gmail.com Edi how was the wonderful Dirkie and Arno? Strangely he's just emailed me. Have a great trip. Regards Linda

 

[Safari Hunter]

Isn't that Umlilo?

 

[Linda]

Adrian darling..... That's the cousins! My guys are the outfitters that process all the meat for their cousins and other outfitters in the area. I have great respect for a number of local outfitters and have been fortunate to be introduced to them all, here, and in South Africa. All great people. Africa is just an incredible experience xxx

 

[Bos en Dal Safaris]

Hi AJFAB

Seems like you have recieved some good advice on here. During April/May it is rutting season and the male animals will be easier to shoot, but it may be a bit warm. June/July and august are generally good months to hunt with lower temperatures.

Good luck in finalizing your hunt.
​Best Regards

 

[ajfab]

I don't mind warm as long as the animals are about that's the main thing.
I am taking my 30-06 but what would be the best load 180gr or bigger?

 

[Bos en Dal Safaris]

180gr of a premier bullet will be sufficient. I use barnes 180 in my 30-06 they work like a dream. You can shoot anything with them from Duiker to Eland

​Enjoy

 

[sikamalc]

As said the best times are in our summer period, May through to early September, with premium months being June to August this is for SA.

30.06 no problem this will take anything on your list, 180g is fine or even slightly lighter, as has been said before its all about bullet placement.

Don't shoot the first Kudu you see, they all look big to a new person in Africa, the bench mark is 50" and make sure they have 3 full curls of the horn and then start to kick out at the top, look for at least a 55" bull if you are trophy hunting.

Have a great time and let us see some piccies on your return.

ATB

Sikamalc

 

[ajfab]

thanks for that. yes trophy hunting is the name. good to get some tips on what and when.
ade

 

[BunnyDoom]

Hi mate, do you know tusker on here? He does Africa a lot and lives near you - sure he would mind giving you a little info

hope to see you at the next meet