A South African Hunting Tradition: Passing the Torch in the Bushveld

Many families have an activity that they do together to spend some quality time. For mine, it has been time spent outdoors hunting. Since I was 11 years old, I have been hunting with my dad. Sharing his passion for hunting with me has been the best gift I’ve been given. It is when I feel the most at peace and clear-minded.

Hunting has pushed me both physically and mentally. I can honestly say that it has shaped who I am as a person. It has also given my dad and me a strong bond and unforgettable memories.

Carrying on the Family Legacy in South Africa

When I was only 10 months old, my dad and grandpa went on a hunt in Namibia. This past month, my dad and I carried on the tradition through a plains game hunt with Stormberg Elangeni Safaris in South Africa.

We began in the Stormberg mountains where I was fortunate enough to have harvested a black wildebeest, a Cape springbok, and a black springbok. With the open terrain between the mountains, these animals all required a well-executed stalk in order for the hunt to be successful. The longer-range shots and heavy windage raised a challenge; however, my dad’s encouragement gave me the confidence behind the trigger.

Chasing the 'Grey Ghost' of the Bushveld

Next, we went to a much different area in the bushveld of the Kat River Conservancy. Our first day there was entirely spent glassing for a mature kudu bull. While we didn’t find the right one, we saw many younger bulls and cows, so we had hope for the next day.

The next day, while on a long walk, we heard the loud and chaotic grunts of impala rams in the rut. We followed the ruckus, and I was able to harvest an absolute brute of an impala ram. Then, my Professional Hunter (PH) had a wonderful surprise for my dad and me at lunchtime… the main course for lunch was the backstraps of my impala! It was so special to have the full-circle experience from field to plate.

After lunch, we continued the search for my kudu. Watching a group of young bulls and seeing cows nearby, we waited patiently. There was some movement in the bush, then we saw the flash of ivory tips, and finally, my ancient "grey ghost" of the bush emerged. This kudu was a dream come true.

A 400-Yard Shot: Learning from My Role Model

On the last day, we focused on finding my dad an impala ram. Across the valley we were glassing from and on top of the ridge stood a beautiful ram. The challenge was that he was almost 400 yards away.

Without hesitation, my dad used his long-range shooting skills and made a perfectly executed shot. Getting to watch my role model accomplish one of his goals brought me joy beyond words.

I will never be able to thank my dad enough for teaching me all that I know and providing opportunities of a lifetime like this. The memories that we have been able to make together will forever be remembered and cherished. I know my grandpa was smiling in heaven watching his granddaughter and son share this experience together.

To all of the dads out there, thank you for all you do for those around you, and Happy Father's Day!

A special thanks goes out to the incredible outfitter from our hunt, @stormberg.elangeni.safaris. This unforgettable journey through the South African Bushveld, and the passing of the torch to the next generation, would not have been possible without their guiding expertise.