SOUTH AFRICA: Has Anyone Hunted With Authentic African Adventures?

[Tony L.]

Yes, twice—once in 2011 and again last April. Zero issues with airport or transportation safety, staff is great and Hanno is great. You will not be disappointed.

Thanks Sean Smith, You’ve answered the questions that I’ve been stressing about. If it was just a guys hunt in a country I’ve never been to I wouldn’t be nearly as concerned but taking women with us kinda worries the whole party that’s booking the trip. Thanks again!

 

[Sean Smith]

If the purpose of this site is to provide clarity, then I should clarify that Hanno is NOT a Zimbabwe PH, so nobody would be looking to him for a booking there. He ended up roped into this hunt as a favor for a friend/longtime client, wasn’t the PH, didn’t pay any bribes and essentially had zero to do with the organization/execution of the hunt. He never hunts in Zim and has no intention of going back there. What got him into trouble is that he’s been accused (falsely, I can absolutely assure you) of trying to assist the client in illegally exporting ivory from Zim to South Africa AFTER the hunt. This export never actually occurred, mind you, and the ivory remains in Zim to this day. See, this is the sort of thing I’m referring to when I say people are running around gossiping about this who don’t know what they’re talking about. You don’t even have the most basic facts straight.

 

[Hogpatrol]

If the purpose of this site is to provide clarity, then I should clarify that Hanno is NOT a Zimbabwe PH, so nobody would be looking to him for a booking there. He ended up roped into this hunt as a favor for a friend/longtime client, wasn’t the PH, didn’t pay any bribes and essentially had zero to do with the organization/execution of the hunt. He never hunts in Zim and has no intention of going back there. What got him into trouble is that he’s been accused (falsely, I can absolutely assure you) of trying to assist the client in illegally exporting ivory from Zim to South Africa AFTER the hunt. This export never actually occurred, mind you, and the ivory remains in Zim to this day. See, this is the sort of thing I’m referring to when I say people are running around gossiping about this who don’t know what they’re talking about. You don’t even have the most basic facts straight.

That's his side of the story. What's the other side? He's still considered a fugitive in the U.S. So let's say for the sake of argument, you put down a deposit with him. SAPS or Interpol gets involved, or he screws up again and he gets picked up and extradited to the U.S. Your deposit's made, airline tickets purchased, lodging arranged and ready to go. What's your option now?

 

[Sean Smith]

Your option is to hunt with one of his staff PHs, all of whom are excellent, on the same ground as you would with him.

It’s not just his side. As I said, I’ve spoken with others who’ve corroborated him. I know vastly more about this than you. I’m sufficiently satisfied with his explanations that I’ve put my own time and money on the line in his defense. I’ve done the work; you’ve read an article or two and are firing off I’ll-informed pot shots and kicking a man you don’t know when he’s down and fighting for his life.

 

[Hogpatrol]

Your option is to hunt with one of his staff PHs, all of whom are excellent, on the same ground as you would with him.

It’s not just his side. As I said, I’ve spoken with others who’ve corroborated him. I know vastly more about this than you. I’m sufficiently satisfied with his explanations that I’ve put my own time and money on the line in his defense. I’ve done the work; you’ve read an article or two and are firing off I’ll-informed pot shots and kicking a man you don’t know when he’s down and fighting for his life.

Not kicking anyone down. While I don't agree with U.S. heavy handedness, there is still evidence he did something illegal and is still under indictment. No one forced this PH to do anything illegal. No perfection here but I was taught if you don't want trouble with the law, ignore the opportunity to break it and for crying out loud, don't advertise it at an SCI convention. In my opinion, if you're that dumb, you should probably find another line of work. The OP asked and he was given VALID information. You can "defend" him all you want, yours and his money, spend it as you wish.

 

[Sean Smith]

Not kicking anyone down. While I don't agree with U.S. heavy handedness, there is still evidence he did something illegal and is still under indictment. No one forced this PH to do anything illegal. No perfection here but I was taught if you don't want trouble with the law, ignore the opportunity to break it and for crying out loud, don't advertise it at an SCI convention. In my opinion, if you're that dumb, you should probably find another line of work. The OP asked and he was given VALID information. You can "defend" him all you want, yours and his money, spend it as you wish.

Do you understand how the grand jury/indictment process works? There is no defense counsel present, no cross examination. They hear exactly what the prosecutor wants them to hear and nothing more. So like I said, you can indict a ham sandwich. Being under indictment means very little.

You’re armchairing this; I’ve done the due diligence and, based upon this, decided to put skin in the game. People can decide for themselves whom to believe.

You’re right about one thing though—the heavy handedness of the DOJ in this matter is completely outrageous. The government is partially shut down over $5 billion—a rounding error when it comes to federal math—yet apparently we have resources and to spare for the purpose of attempting to extradite, try, convict and presumably incarcerate a non-US citizen for a CONSPIRACY crime—remember, no actual export of the tusks took place—based on events that occurred 10,000 miles from the US.

 

[wesheltonj]

Please read my post in the thread posted on the first page. It says all you need to know.

Me, personally I would not buy a hunt from or hunt with this person. I have very good understanding of how the Grand Jury works.

 

[Hogpatrol]

@Sean Smith, You are shooting the messengers. Again, the OP asked for information and was given some. The fact that you and Leon Small just signed up for this thread equates to zero credibility. Save us all from more obfuscation and cry babying and sign off this thread. Remember what Bill Clinton said "If you're in a hole, throw away the shovel". You need to get rid of the shovel.

 

[Sean Smith]

I explained the timing of my joining this conversation. Is reading comprehension a major issue for you? Why would I have joined at any time other than when I was first made aware of it? Is there a waiting period typically observed? I suppose if I were clairvoyant I could have joined it before it started, but then nobody would have known what I was talking about and likely would have presumed me insane. Your fixation on the timing says nothing about my credibility, though it speaks volumes about your intelligence. Certainly nobody who actually knows me ever questions my credibility, but I’m sure they’re all wrong and you’re right because you’re obviously a genius.

 

[Hogpatrol]

I explained the timing of my joining this conversation. Is reading comprehension a major issue for you? Why would I have joined at any time other than when I was first made aware of it? Is there a waiting period typically observed? I suppose if I were clairvoyant I could have joined it before it started, but then nobody would have known what I was talking about and likely would have presumed me insane. Your fixation on the timing says nothing about my credibility, though it speaks volumes about your intelligence. Certainly nobody who actually knows me ever questions my credibility, but I’m sure they’re all wrong and you’re right because you’re obviously a genius.

Thanks for the comedic relief man. You get funnier every post. Throw away that shovel and quit whining!

 

[gillettehunter]

There are hundreds if not thousands of outfitters in Africa. Why someone would even consider going with a outfitter that has any questions, such as these, surrounding them is beyond me. Between AH and the other network there are probably 100 outfitters with top notch reputations to choose from. Read the hunt reports and find someone without the controversy and uncertainty surrounding them. There is no reason to do otherwise. Or go to DSC or SCI or one of the other shows. No need to have any uncertainty.
Bruce

 

[Lee M]

I usually avoid the posts with strong opposing opinions as I’ve rarely seen anyone change their mind on this forum, Lol, but I’ll add a few comments. I think the greatest benefit of AH is the ability for members to ask questions and get honest answers. Especially if someone is truly looking for and open to hearing all sides. In this case, Tony L hasn’t even acknowledged the negative concerns, which doesn’t make sense to me??? I’m not saying Sean’s opinion and experience with the outfitter is not true. He obviously supports this guy and joined the forum for the sole purpose of defending him. As long as Tony L isn’t the one who invited him, he brings another opinion here and there isn’t the conflict that seems to be present with 3 recent new members. But if your already booked Tony and just looking for a pat on the back and positive support in your decision just say so. As stated there are lots of African outfitters to choose from. Do this wisely! Your call.

 

[johnnyblues]

The more this thread continues the more suspicious I get. Sorry that's just my opinion. With so many good and reputable outfitters here why in the world would I consider this person? Any accusations until they are resolved would keep me away from that person. Gentleman were beating a dead horse on this thread. Sir book your hunt and good luck!

 

[Hogpatrol]

I explained the timing of my joining this conversation. Is reading comprehension a major issue for you? Why would I have joined at any time other than when I was first made aware of it? Is there a waiting period typically observed? I suppose if I were clairvoyant I could have joined it before it started, but then nobody would have known what I was talking about and likely would have presumed me insane. Your fixation on the timing says nothing about my credibility, though it speaks volumes about your intelligence. Certainly nobody who actually knows me ever questions my credibility, but I’m sure they’re all wrong and you’re right because you’re obviously a genius.

If anyone's not a genius, it's you! Your PH, Hanno and his alleged shenanigans were posted all over the press, TV and web in the U.S. and around the world. After the Cecil debacle, the last thing HONEST outfitters want is another scandal involving African hunting! You obviously aren't bright enough to realize the DAMAGE this guy has caused to the industry, conservation and HONEST operators not to mention his own dumb self. I'll tell you what needs to happen. This guy needs to go out of business. He may have fell in a trap where most meet an untimely fate. Have a nice fkn day. I'm done.

 

[Sean Smith]

I usually avoid the posts with strong opposing opinions as I’ve rarely seen anyone change their mind on this forum, Lol, but I’ll add a few comments. I think the greatest benefit of AH is the ability for members to ask questions and get honest answers. Especially if someone is truly looking for and open to hearing all sides. In this case, Tony L hasn’t even acknowledged the negative concerns, which doesn’t make sense to me??? I’m not saying Sean’s opinion and experience with the outfitter is not true. He obviously supports this guy and joined the forum for the sole purpose of defending him. As long as Tony L isn’t the one who invited him, he brings another opinion here and there isn’t the conflict that seems to be present with 3 recent new members. But if your already booked Tony and just looking for a pat on the back and positive support in your decision just say so. As stated there are lots of African outfitters to choose from. Do this wisely! Your call.

Yeah—I don’t really know how it would be possible for me to be more upfront about my motivations for joining this conversation or the timing of it. None of what I’ve written has been in code, or in Mandarin, or ancient Sanskrit. I’M COMING TO THE DEFENSE OF A FRIEND WHO IS A GOOD MAN AND GOOD OUTFITTER I’M CONVINCED DID NOTHING WRONG AND WILL EVENTUALLY BE CLEARED. PERIOD. All of these daffy conspiracy theories and questioning of my motives/credibility/integrity would be hilarious if they weren’t so exasperating. I’ve used my full and real name, unlike most on this thread. I’ve offered up my email address to anyone who would like to hit me up for more information. I have no hidden agenda, you silly jackasses. Get a life!

 

[TXhunter65]

Soooooo, basically:

New members: Book with AAA don't hesitate!
Veteran members: Never book with an outfit/outfitter surrounded by controversy/legal issues!

I think pretty much sums it up?

Are there any veteran members who would like to defend this individual based on personal experience?

 

[Sean Smith]

Good GAWD! Again with the obsession over the TOTALLY IRRELEVANT timing of when people joined this site and this conversation. Here's a distinction that actually matters: Those of us who have ACTUALLY HUNTED WITH HANNO and ACTUALLY KNOW HIM are defending and recommending him. Those who don't know jack shit other than what they've read are badmouthing him. I'm violating Mark Twain's admonition against arguing with stupid people, so this is the last I'll say about it. Hopefully those reading through this who aren't clinically brain dead will not be thrown off by the constant, positively idiotic references to when certain people joined the conversation.

 

[Hogpatrol]

Good grief, are you still here? Get smart and give it up bro. Nobody here gives a shit or believes what you say or think. HVR cooked his own goose talking trash to a federal agent, end of story, good night Dick.

https://africatimes.com/tag/hanno-van-rensburg/

Excerpt:
"While trying to sell another safari trip, he later told an undercover agent with U.S. Fish and Wildlife about the Gonarezhou National Park trip and advise him to bring $9,000 to assure “extras” were covered, indicating that bribery was all a part of how Zimbabwe works.

“If they need another tag, they get another tag. You know, that’s the negative part of it. The system is so corrupt,” Van Rensburg said, according to the indictment. “If the client pays the money they will find another tag. I am straightforward with you. Corruption is the rule in Africa.”

 

[Sean Smith]

Wow--you've managed to ascertain what everyone reading this believes? How did you track them down?

Anyone wanting to dig deeper into the actual facts of this case rather than just taking at face value what some idiot parrots from an indictment should feel free to email me. There's a reason these statements are referenced in the indictment--namely that an indictment does not fall under the Federal Rules of Evidence. They will not be admissible in the event of a trial, and in any case are merely hypothetical, abstract (and accurate) descriptions of how literally everything gets done in Zimbabwe. I've been a lawyer for 22 years, have spent at least a dozen hours personally investigating the facts of this matter, and know a LOT more about this case than you can find out reading these highly slanted, inflammatory articles.

 

[LivingTheDream]

When I saw Tony ignore the bad report, I was like good grief why even come on here and ask. I didn't think it could be a scam. This thread has been funny. Sean is right he doesn't have a hidden agenda, he has an agenda and he has made it known. Says everything is hearsay when the guy told a federal agent to bring money for bribes. Its also good to know he just breaks the law to help out a friend, I'll use that as a defense if I ever choose to break the law. And I know what you are going to say, I'm being an armchair quarterback and I'm stupid. But I'm smart enough to not hunt with known criminals or send my money to them. Good Luck to you sir.