Crocodile Hunting in Botswana

How Crocodile Hunting in Botswana Is Conducted

Crocodile hunting in Botswana may involve baiting a suitable riverbank and watching from a blind, or searching waterways and exposed banks for a mature animal before planning an approach. Much of the hunt can be spent locating and judging crocodiles before the hunter ever gets into position for a shot.

Getting within range is a challenge. Nile crocodiles have excellent senses and will disappear into the water quickly when disturbed. The PH must consider the approach, shooting position and the crocodile's distance from deep water before deciding whether an opportunity is worth taking.

Shot placement becomes particularly important because a wounded crocodile that reaches deep water can be extremely difficult to recover. The first shot needs to be precise, and the hunter should be prepared to follow the PH's instructions immediately if another shot is required.

Our Crocodile Shot Placement guide covers the different shooting angles and anatomical reference points in more detail. 

What Caliber Rifle Is Used for Crocodile Hunting in Botswana?

Crocodile hunting places more emphasis on accuracy and bullet placement than simply using the largest rifle available. The 7mm and .300 Winchester Magnum are popular choices, while the .375 is another proven option and may already be familiar to hunters pursuing other species during a Big Game Hunting in Africa safari.

A crocodile's skull presents a small target, particularly when the animal is lying at distance on a riverbank. A flat-shooting rifle that the hunter knows well can therefore be more useful than stepping up to a heavier caliber that is more difficult to shoot accurately.

Bullet selection should provide reliable penetration for the shot being taken. Premium controlled-expansion bullets are commonly used for body shots, while solids may be selected where maximum penetration is required. The final combination should be discussed with the Professional Hunter before the safari, particularly if the same rifle will be used for other game.

Judging a Trophy Crocodile in Botswana

Judging the size of a Nile crocodile in the field is not as straightforward as it might appear. Much of the animal may be hidden by water, vegetation or the angle of the bank, and estimating overall length can be difficult even when the entire crocodile is visible.

The PH will look at more than length alone. A mature bull crocodile develops a heavy head, thick neck and substantial body, while older animals often appear considerably more robust than younger crocodiles of similar apparent length. Time spent watching an animal through binoculars can therefore be important before deciding whether to make an approach.

Tracks and slide marks along regularly used banks can also provide clues that a large crocodile is using a particular stretch of water. Once a promising animal has been located, the hunt may become a matter of learning where it prefers to bask and waiting for it to appear in a position where it can be properly judged and safely taken.

A big crocodile in the wrong position may still be passed. If the animal is too close to deep water, surrounded by vegetation or offers a poor shooting angle, the PH may choose to wait for another opportunity rather than risk losing the trophy after the shot. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is crocodile hunting legal in Botswana?

Yes. Crocodile hunting is permitted in Botswana where the necessary quota, licences and hunting rights are available. Availability depends on the particular hunting area and current quota, so a crocodile hunt should be confirmed with the outfitter before the safari is booked.

Where can you hunt crocodile in Botswana?

Nile crocodiles occur in Botswana's northern river and wetland systems, but not every area holding crocodiles is open to hunting. Hunts can only take place where crocodile is available under the applicable quota and hunting regulations.

What caliber is used for crocodile hunting in Botswana?

The 7mm and .300 Winchester Magnum are commonly suitable choices for crocodile, while the .375 is another proven option. Accuracy is particularly important because a crocodile may present a relatively small target and can reach deep water quickly after a poorly placed shot.

How do you judge a trophy Nile crocodile?

Length is important, but the PH will also consider the size and proportions of the head, neck and body when assessing a mature crocodile. Because distance, water and vegetation can make crocodiles difficult to judge accurately, an animal may be watched for some time before an approach is made.

Can crocodile be included in a big game hunt in Botswana?

Yes, when crocodile quota and the necessary licences are available in the hunting area. Crocodile can form part of a broader Big Game Hunting in Botswana safari alongside other species available under quota. Hunters specifically wanting a crocodile should confirm availability before building the rest of the safari around it.