African plains game hunting in South Africa would never be the same without the majestic and regal sable antelope (Hippotragus Niger). These exquisite antelopes inhabit many African countries, including South Africa, Namibia, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Angola, Zambia, and Botswana. Four subspecies of sable are recognized, with the Southern Sable or common variety (Hippotragus niger niger) found in South Africa. South Africa is a natural choice as a hunting destination for a sable hunt and is regarded as the pinnacle destination for African plains game hunts. Limpopo, the North West, and KwaZulu-Natal are prime regions for hunting sable antelope on an exciting and challenging African hunt. This plains game species prefers a habitat incorporating long grass and marshy areas, consuming grasses and herbs. The sable is water-dependent and will travel every few days to a water source. This magnificent antelope tips the scale at 550 pounds, with the female of the species weighing around 490 pounds. Their coats range in color from a rich brown to black with a white underbelly. Their faces are jet black with white markings. Both males and females have exquisite ringed horns that arch backward, with a male’s horns measuring between 32-65 inches, and a female’s horns reaching 24-40 inches. Sables can and will defend themselves, utilizing their horns to impale their attacker. They are often targeted by large predators, including lions, leopards, and hyenas. Sable hunts are challenging affairs, as they are wary antelopes, always on alert, with dominant males and other members of the herd issuing alarm calls when spotting threats. This makes it extremely difficult for a hunter to approach them undetected, and this, combined with their fast reflexes, makes them a challenge to stalk and hunt. They are best targeted through spot-and-stalk or tracking, while ambush techniques near a water hole have also been successful. Sable hunting in South Africa is available throughout the year. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the sable antelope as “least concern.” When sable hunting in South Africa, a TOPS (Threatened or Protects Species) permit is required.