Our African hunting safari, Illusive Bushbuck In SA

ABOUT THE EXPEDITION

We had the opportunity to go on a bushbuck hunt in South Africa, Limpopo Province and what an awesome experience it was. Bushbuck are among the least social of the African antelope species and are incredibly alert animals.

The best way to hunt a Bushbuck is on foot, walking and stalking as quietly as possible because the moment a Bushbuck sees or hears you, he is gone in an instant.

Shot placement on a Bushbuck is very similar to other medium-sized antelope species in Africa. Although several shot options are possible, I personally avoid taking head shots as they are far too risky. I am also not a fan of the “Texas heart shot.” My preferred shot placement is roughly one-third of the way up the body following the front leg. Even if the shot placement is slightly off, there is still a good chance of hitting the lungs, heart, or shoulder, leading to a quicker and more ethical recovery. Proper medium antelope shot placement becomes especially important when hunting nervous animals in thick cover.

I’ve mentioned my reluctance to take a “Texas heart shot” and, as Murphy’s Law would have it, when I finally got the Bushbuck in my sights, that was exactly the angle presented. Moments later the Bushbuck lifted his head and turned slightly quartering away, exposing the shoulder and giving me the opportunity to take the shot.

Now at this point I need to remind you — as I reminded myself — that a wounded or cornered Bushbuck can be a surprisingly aggressive animal. They will often hide in thick brush waiting for the perfect opportunity to charge. Fortunately, my shot placement on the Bushbuck was good and he went down with little trouble, much to my relief.

Hunting a trophy Bushbuck is one of the most rewarding forms of African plains game hunting. These elusive antelope are intelligent, cautious, and incredibly quick to disappear into thick cover at the slightest sign of danger. The experience taught me the importance of patience, careful shot placement, and respecting just how tough these animals can be. Hunting bushbuck on foot through the Limpopo bushveld was an unforgettable African safari experience and showed me firsthand why bushbuck hunts remain one of the most exciting forms of African plains game hunting.