Trophy Import issues into Canada

[MarkB]

I have to respectfully disagree with you here. All my trophies have been imported through Toronto and cleared successfully (by professionals not me). IMO not worth the hassle, headache, or more importantly risk of mistake and losing a valued trophy.

If you use an importer they better all be paperwork perfect, on time and at exact quoted price. If not the company has failed to do its contracted portion.

I import all my own shipments, CITES, big 4 so far, many special permit species and over 100 PG, so far without any issues, extras or importer fees. I like that 10K that I got to use on next safari. Recently I am also proud that 5 fellow Canadian Africahunting members have all experienced the same in Vancouver after discussions and DM's with myself. All are glad on the funds saved. Its not difficult but as you state details are of ultimate importance. My last 2021, 22 animal quote for Canadian importer was over $5000 if all went well? No thanks.

As for Toronto being the worst import port in Canada that is/was verified, SCI USA and SCI Canada both sent out messages warning its members of the issues and non compliance with regs at that port. That's the reason I emailed CFIA and CBSA and received a message from CFIA President with directions to all Canadian ports.

I judge nobody, if they wish to hire pros to do portions of Safari that's great, I enjoy and am capable with time and knowledge to do my own. Becomes part of my safaris.

Mark

 

[major hunter]

In terms of paperwork yes absolutely, but more importantly time. Trophies being here 6 months from harvest definitely takes the edge off. I know people who have let their trophies sit a year or more overseas and they had damage on their hides or trophies be non-mountable due to. Even if the bill comes in a little bit more if accounted for and reasonable it doesn’t matter some trophies can’t be replaced.

in terms of difficulty it gets complex, for example I’ve seen the paperwork coming out of Kyrgyzstan. No thanks not worth the risk on a Marco & Ibex. you cannot replace them period.
Also if you have an issue then you’re going to need the companies on the list. I rather support them anyways, hunters spend a lot of time and resources some should be in Canada.

For example you could also represent yourself in court, you could save big time. But more than likely won’t get the same result vs retaining an attorney. Not saying its the same stakes but it can be esp with some hunts.

People are free to do what they like it’s their choice. Not to discourage readers but sometimes things aren’t as straight forward or “easy” as they appear and decide based on what you value most and risk tolerance.

 

[MarkB]

Agree, the time factor is longer doing things yourself, paperwork must be couriered to me rather than given to exporter for verification. Even then I found mistakes that had to be corrected, yes that's another month as nothing is fast in Africa.

I am only speaking of Africa for doing it myself, specifically so far, SA, Zim and Namibia, I would not attempt other continents paperwork, never an ibex or international sheep. African gun permits, trophy shipping and flights have all been done in my capable hands, without issue.

There are many things above my pay grade that I would never attempt, certainly not a lawyer. People can choose their level of confidence and decide. Those that have decided to contact me have all imported their own so far without issue, and they reached out to me after having huge issues, extra costs and stress from professional importers. I do pass on assistance from ports other than Van.

Its great that we are free to still choose import style. Canada is restricting more species based on emotion, maybe one day soon any import ability will end. Has in many other countries.

MB

 

[major hunter]

We all need to voice our opinions and vote this upcoming election. Keeping the hunting heritage alive for Canadians.

 

[MarkB]

Agree, first time in my life I am a card carrying party member. Volunteering with lawn sign placement and door knocked over 400 houses so far. Next shift is tomorrow, 1-8 PM. Monumental vote if all who hunt, fish, own firearms, like money or want to continue the outdoor lifestyle. One party needs stopping as they want to take all that away.

Every Canadian reading this needs to GET OUT AND VOTE. Sorry for off topic but this is important for Canada and the upcoming generations.

MB