One Year Ago Today – My First South African Hunting Experience

[Ridge-runner86]

Hey everyone,

Hard to believe it’s already been a year since I went on my very first hunting trip to South Africa. I targeted plains game, and I can honestly say it was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life.

Not only was the hunt itself incredible, but I learned so much about the role that hunting plays in conservation. Seeing firsthand how much effort goes into wildlife management and sustainable practices really changed the way I think about the outdoors.

Since coming back, not a day goes by that I don’t think about the time I spent there. I’ve definitely been bitten by the bug — and I think it’s safe to say I’m hooked for life!

To mark the anniversary, I wanted to share a few photos from that trip. Looking back at them brings all the memories flooding back, and I thought this would be a good place to share with people who understand the passion.

Thanks for letting me share, and I’d love to hear about others’ first-time hunting experiences in Africa as well.

 

[MarkinMI]

...wow, Ridge, what a coinkidink, as I'm sitting here in MI doing just the same, reminiscing about my son and I's very first SA safari, which started exactly one year ago, today.
What an amazing trip in every way imaginable, and I, too, think about it daily.
Not just the amazing hunting, but the whole African experience, start to finish.
From the two years of planning, traveling there, seeing all the amazing wildlife and the places they call home, the stalks and nightly recap around the fire, amazing food and a PH and camp staff that made two good ol' boys from MI feel like princes for two glorious weeks...absolutely incredible!
Yes, the bug has bitten, and my son has promised me a return trip, that we talk about regularly, and we can't wait.
Damn yer eyes, Africa, Damn...

 

[Ridge-runner86]

Markin you’re not kidding about living like a prince! What an experience you had!

My journey was truly remarkable, a memory etched in my heart. I dream of the day when my boys and I can stand there together, sharing in its wonder.


For us there are still countless memories waiting to be crafted and forged ahead—out under the open sky, with our sons by our side and the firelight carrying our stories forward.

 

[steve white]

Hey everyone,

Hard to believe it’s already been a year since I went on my very first hunting trip to South Africa. I targeted plains game, and I can honestly say it was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life.

Not only was the hunt itself incredible, but I learned so much about the role that hunting plays in conservation. Seeing firsthand how much effort goes into wildlife management and sustainable practices really changed the way I think about the outdoors.

Since coming back, not a day goes by that I don’t think about the time I spent there. I’ve definitely been bitten by the bug — and I think it’s safe to say I’m hooked for life!

To mark the anniversary, I wanted to share a few photos from that trip. Looking back at them brings all the memories flooding back, and I thought this would be a good place to share with people who understand the passion.

Thanks for letting me share, and I’d love to hear about others’ first-time hunting experiences in Africa as well.
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Two questions:1. Did anyone tell you what a big impala that was, and 2. How much have you already saved to go back again?

 

[Ridge-runner86]

Two questions:1. Did anyone tell you what a big impala that was, and 2. How much have you already saved to go back again?

My ph taught me early how to age them and would would often quiz me if certain ones were shooters. We glassed him then chased him for some time, being a whitetail hunter I knew it was a matter of time before he made a mistake and we had to be consistent to capitalize! Saving for next trip now and it’s looking like 2028! I will nail the details down in feb.