DRAW WEIGHTS & BOWS

Legally permitted in South Africa are three types of bows: compound, re-curve, and longbow. The compound bow is favored by most international sportsmen pursuing South African game. For plains game hunting, a minimum draw weight of 50lbs is mandated, though it's advisable to utilize a bow ranging from 60lbs to 80lbs.

Comfort and proficiency with your equipment are paramount. Adequate time spent honing skills on the practice range can mean the difference between a well-placed shot and a day tracking a wounded animal.

BROADHEADS

Of the main types—fixed blades, removable blades, and mechanical or expandable blades—our preference leans towards fixed blades. They've proven most effective in our African game pursuits, though preferences may vary among hunters.

BLINDS

An array of blinds, from elevated to ground blinds, are strategically positioned for ambushing trophy animals. Tree blinds line game paths, while ground blinds near waterholes promise high success rates during key times.

DURATION & OPTIMAL TIMING

Bow hunting safaris typically require longer durations compared to rifle hunting. A rule of thumb suggests adding 30% more days for bow hunting the same species. We recommend at least seven days for pursuing five trophy animals. Optimal bow hunting season is during the winter months from late May to early September, when game concentrations around waterholes increase, aided by leaf shedding, making spotting easier.

DOCUMENTATION

No legal documentation is required for importing a bow into South Africa.