Dipitsi Safaris

Bow hunting is one of the most challenging methods of hunting game. The latest equipment is used for the various hunting methods. Using your own equipment is optional. All archers will be accompanied by a professional hunter.

Methods of hunting:
Bow hunting methods are applied depending on the specific situation and species being hunted. The following could be a possibility.

Bow hunting based on ‘Opportunity’
Valuable time can be saved by making use of a 4×4 ranger vehicle to come as close to game as possible. Once the animal is spotted the vehicle is stopped and the hunt is commenced on foot.

This saves valuable time in the tracking of game from the actual camping site. Factors such as wind direction determine where the hunters must be dropped off. Game can be spotted in one area and the hunters can approach the animal from the opposite direction, depending on the circumstances.

It has been said that bow hunting is more rewarding, as the challenge between man and beast occurs on a more balanced playing field. Time and patience is however a necessity during the hunt. Other methods can be applied, for example, selecting a game trail. This is a trail travelled by game on a daily basis. A temporary shelter or camouflage can be set up in wait for passing game. This is very similar to what a predator such as lion may apply, leaving the hunter with the reward that the hunt was as close to or similar to a situation for a kill in nature.

Bow hunting based on making use of ‘blinds’
The animals which are most likely to be hunted with success via this method would be baboon, warthog, blue wildebeest, eland and zebra. The majority of the bushveld savanna is on one level, therefore the majority of successful hunts are, via constructed camouflage covers, often elevated off the ground  terrain dependant – which are assembled near water holes and salt licks. These are normally approximately 12 to 23 yards from these spots of attraction. The camouflage covers or ‘blinds’, as it is also known as, are often dark. It is highly recommended that ‘lighted sight pins’ be used.

In general, a bow and arrow combination can produce a minimum of 60-65lbs of kinetic energy with broad head tipped arrows.