Lim prepared as hunting season opens

While biltong and bush breakaways are synonymous with winter in South Africa there are also hundreds of local and international hunters who flock to the province for the annual hunting season.
Limpopo is one of the preferred hunting destinations in the world and game farm owners have a variety of hunting packages available for the biltong hunter as well as the trophy hunter.
When searching online one gets ample advertisements of ranches offering a variety of services – from airport collection and obtaining of permits to the services of a professional hunter and processing of meat.
Several websites also provide crucial safety tips to ensure that hunters remain safe at all times to avoid freak accidents. Some important hunting tips also help the hunter to prepare for his hunt and what he might expect on the hunt.
Climate
South Africa has vast temperature variations, which depend on the season. The ideal time of year for hunting is from April to September as the chances of obtaining a trophy are much better. It is wise to pack enough winter clothing for early mornings and evenings as well as cooler clothes for during the day when it tends to become warmer even though it is winter, especially in Limpopo.
Malaria
It is important to familiarise yourself on whether you’re entering a malaria zone. Big regions of Limpopo, especially the Eastern parts are malaria regions and precautions should be taken.
What to pack
Some game farms have a list of essentials to pack and one of the important things among clothes of natural colour such as khaki are hunting or hiking boots that are already broken in. The list also contains items such as a cap or hat, toiletries, sunscreen, camera, binoculars and a torch. For self-catering purposes hunters should bring enough food and drink as farms are normally situated far distances from town. Also remember any necessary medication and a first aid kit.
Weapons safety
General safety of weapons and ammunition are of high concern. Hunter should always ensure their there is no bullet in the chamber when moving around the farm on the hunting vehicle – even when the rifle is handled in the camp prior or after hunting for the day. Rifles should be stored in a safe and out of reach of children.
Mistakes hunters make
It was also learnt that mistakes hunters make can cost them big bucks at the end without having any carcass to prove.
Do not ignore the professional hunter – he knows the area and his game so take his advice. Some professional hunters are calm, others are excitable. Taking the shot is always your decision. Never shoot unless you personally is certain you can make a good hit.
Being over gunned is not preferable. Take your favourite rifle with which you shoot well and if you know big game is on your shopping list, take a suitable calibre.
Choice of bullets is more important than choice of cartridges. African game varies tremendously in size, and the bullet simply must be tough enough to ensure penetration on the largest game to be hunted.

Story: RC Myburgh
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