Driven Hunts in South Africa: A Hunter's Guide South Africa's diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a prime destination for hunters worldwide. While spot-and-stalk methods are popular, driven hunts offer a different kind of adrenaline rush, testing your reflexes and shooting skills. What is a Driven Hunt? In a driven hunt, beaters (often local trackers) move through a designated area, pushing animals toward a line of strategically positioned hunters. This creates fast-paced shooting opportunities as animals break cover. Common Quarry Impala: A staple of South African hunting, known for its agility and alertness. Wildebeest: Both blue and black wildebeest are common targets, offering a challenging shot due to their size and speed. Blesbok: A medium-sized antelope with a distinctive white blaze on its face. Kudu: While often hunted via spot-and-stalk, kudu can also be taken in driven hunts, requiring quick target acquisition. Bush Pig: A challenging quarry because of their nocturnal behavior. Other: Depending on the region, you might also encounter warthog, eland, or even smaller game like duiker. Season The hunting season in South Africa typically runs from May to September, coinciding with the drier, cooler months. This period offers better visibility and more comfortable hunting conditions. Tactics and Firearms Positioning: Hunters are typically stationed in elevated blinds or on the ground along game trails. Shooting: Quick target acquisition and accurate shot placement are crucial. Expect fast-moving targets at varying distances. Firearms: Rifles: Bolt-action rifles in calibers like .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, or 7x64 are well-suited for most game. Shotguns: Shotguns are best for the driven hunt. Use buckshot for close-range shots on smaller game. Where to Hunt Limpopo Province: Known for its diverse game populations and professional hunting outfitters. Eastern Cape: Offers a mix of terrain and a variety of huntable species. North West Province: A popular destination with a good infrastructure for hunting tourism. Cost Considerations Driven hunts are typically priced per day or per animal. Expect to pay: Daily Rates: R1000-R5000 per hunter per day Trophy Fees: Vary significantly depending on the species and size of the animal. Trophy Handling Your outfitter will typically handle the skinning, salting, and initial preparation of your trophies. You can then choose to have them mounted locally or shipped to your home country for mounting. Important Considerations Fitness: Be prepared for some walking, especially when moving between hunting locations. Regulations: Ensure you are familiar with South African hunting regulations and have the necessary permits. Outfitter Selection: Choose a reputable outfitter with experience in driven hunts. Safety: Always follow your guide's instructions and prioritize safe gun handling practices. Driven hunts in South Africa offer a thrilling and memorable hunting experience. With careful planning and the right preparation, you can increase your chances of success and create lasting memories. https://m.uh.app/news/elephant-hunting-in-botswana-a-hunters-guide-botswana-known-for-its_ZveaUPRiEe-Oxo9gynE2Kg