I don’t know why I’ve never had the urge to take a bow to Africa. Maybe I don’t like the waterhole hide concept? I don’t know. Now if I could get my Summit over there……………….
I've said this about bowhunting in Africa many times in this and other threads, but it's worth repeating. Most hunters who are hunting from hides over water (and food) in Africa are doing so simply because it is the absolute most productive method of getting shot opportunities on a number of animals within a given timeframe. This is especially true for bowhunters traveling to Africa for the first time.
Most first-time Africa hunters have a "wish list" of animals and a set number of days to hunt. They come with the mindset that this is a once in a lifetime trip and they will likely never get to return. With that, they want opportunity at as many animals as they can get on their lists. This is the main reason why outfitters recommend hunting over water and/or food & minerals for the majority of the time.
There are a few excellent outfitters in Africa who offer quality bowhunting. Those that do will utilizing a number of different methods and set-ups for their hunters including a variety of hides, blinds, and tree stands set up with the most important variables in mind such as hide construction, and location considering the predominant wind and sun directions along with the natural travel paths of the game. The best bowhunting outfits will also utilize tree stands, pop-up blinds, brush blinds, and encourage spot & stalk when the conditions dictate it's probability of success.
Over the many years I have consulted and assisted in the planning of hundreds of safaris for bowhunters, and although most expressed the desire to spot & stalk, most were also were not willing to dedicate the time and patience necessary to be successful. The idea of hunting 7-10 days in Africa in a fair chase environment and possibly only having a handful of shot opportunities does not appeal to the majority of them. Successful spot & stalking is dependent on not only a commitment from the hunter, but a competent, experienced PH who understands the special requirements necessary for bowhunters to be successful when spot & stalking.
While a great many outfitters in Africa offer bow hunting, most lack the experience, knowledge, and even the proper set-ups to facilitate the best opportunities for their hunters. That is why I have been so emphatic over the importance of doing your research and selecting an outfitter that doesn't just offer bow hunting, but one that actually is a bowhunter who has the knowledge, experience, the right properties that will set you up for success.
@Flipper Dude ,
I personally have not hunted from a hide over water in Africa for many years. Although I will get in a tree stand down by one of the rivers occasionally, most days, I prefer the challenge of spot & stalk, and if I go for days without a shot opportunity, I am fine with that. I am no longer collecting trophies, just experiences.
If you ever decide to bring your bow to Africa, get in touch with us. We will be more than happy to spot & stalk with you as long as you are willing to understand and accept the challenges that go along with that style of hunting. And, don't worry about bringing your Summit. We already have several hanging in some of the sweetest spots you can imagine!
