Ultimate Guide to Hunting Blue Wildebeest in South Africa Summer: Tips, Caliber Choices, and Safety Precautions

Hunting blue wildebeest in South Africa during the summer offers a unique challenge and rewarding experience for hunters. The combination of the animal’s behavior, the environment, and the season demands careful preparation. Choosing the right caliber, understanding shot placement, and knowing how to properly skin and store the meat are essential for a successful and responsible hunt. Additionally, hunters must take precautions against the summer heat and the risk of tick-borne illnesses. This guide covers everything you need to know to make your blue wildebeest hunt safe, effective, and enjoyable.

Blue wildebeest in South African summer grassland

Choosing the Ideal Caliber for Blue Wildebeest

Selecting the right caliber is crucial for ethical hunting and ensuring a clean, humane harvest. The .308 Winchester chambered with Barnes 168gr TTSX bullets stands out as an excellent choice for hunting blue wildebeest.

• Why .308 Winchester?

The .308 Win offers a good balance of power, recoil, and accuracy. It is widely available and reliable in various hunting conditions.

• Barnes 168gr TTSX bullets

These bullets are designed for controlled expansion and deep penetration. The all-copper construction ensures weight retention and reduces the risk of over-penetration, which is important for medium-sized game like blue wildebeest.

• Performance in the field

The .308 with Barnes 168gr TTSX delivers sufficient energy to reach vital organs with a well-placed shot, minimizing animal suffering and increasing the chances of a quick harvest.

Importance of Shot Placement

Shot placement is more important than caliber alone. A well-placed shot can make the difference between a quick, ethical kill and a prolonged tracking effort.

• Target vital areas

Aim for the heart and lungs, located just behind the front shoulder. This area provides a quick drop by disrupting the animal’s circulatory and respiratory systems.

• Avoid risky shots

Shots to the neck or head are less reliable and can cause unnecessary suffering. Shots behind the ribs risk missing vital organs.

• Practice and preparation

Spend time at the range practicing shots at various distances. Understanding your rifle’s ballistics and bullet trajectory will improve accuracy in the field.

Skinning and Prepping Meat for Cold Storage

After a successful harvest, proper skinning and meat preparation are essential to prevent spoilage, especially in the summer heat.

• Field dressing tips

Remove the internal organs as soon as possible to cool the carcass quickly. Use a sharp knife and clean cuts to avoid contaminating the meat.

• Skinning

Start by making incisions along the legs and belly. Peel the hide carefully to preserve the skin for tanning or sale. Avoid puncturing the stomach or intestines to prevent contamination.

• Meat handling

Cut the meat into manageable sections and remove excess fat and sinew. Wrap the meat in clean, breathable cloth or butcher paper.

• Cold storage

Store the meat in a cooler with ice or in a refrigerated environment as soon as possible. If refrigeration is unavailable, hang the meat in a shaded, well-ventilated area with good airflow to slow bacterial growth.

Essential Precautions for Summer Hunting

Summer in South Africa brings intense heat and increased risk of tick exposure. Taking precautions will protect your health and improve your hunting experience.

Managing Heat and Sun Exposure

• Use sunscreen

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating to all exposed skin. Reapply every two hours or after sweating.

• Wear appropriate clothing

Lightweight, breathable, and light-colored clothing helps reflect sunlight and keeps you cooler.

• Stay hydrated

Carry plenty of water and drink regularly to avoid dehydration.

Tick Risks and Personal Experience with Tick Fever

Ticks are common in South African bushveld and can transmit tick fever, a serious illness affecting both humans and animals.

• Personal experience

On one hunt, I contracted tick fever after a tick bite went unnoticed. Symptoms appeared within a week, including high fever, chills, and severe fatigue, requiring medical treatment.

• Signs of tick fever

- Sudden high fever

- Headache and muscle aches

- Fatigue and weakness

- Loss of appetite

- Swollen lymph nodes

• Steps to take if suspected

Seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial. Remove ticks carefully with tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling steadily.

• Preventive measures

Use insect repellents containing DEET or permethrin-treated clothing. Check your body thoroughly for ticks after hunting and remove any found promptly.

Photo of tick bites

Enjoying the Experience of Harvesting Your Animal with Friends

When embarking on the journey of harvesting your animal, it's essential to embrace the entire experience, from the anticipation leading up to the trip to the camaraderie shared with your friends throughout the process. The adventure begins long before you even set foot in the field or forest; it starts with planning and preparation. Gathering with good friends to discuss your plans can be an exciting part of the process. Sharing stories from past hunts, exchanging tips and techniques, and setting goals for the upcoming adventure can enhance the sense of camaraderie and excitement. Each friend brings their unique perspective and experiences, which can contribute to a more enriching experience overall.

The Journey to the Location

As you travel to your chosen hunting location, the journey itself can be filled with laughter and bonding. Whether you're driving through scenic landscapes or navigating rugged terrains, the time spent in the vehicle can be a perfect opportunity to strengthen friendships. Sharing snacks, playing music, and engaging in light-hearted banter can create lasting memories before the actual hunt even begins.

Preparation and Anticipation

Upon arrival, the preparation phase becomes crucial. Setting up camp or preparing your gear together can be a fulfilling task that fosters teamwork. Each member of the group can take on specific responsibilities, whether it’s organizing the equipment, scouting the area, or discussing strategies for the hunt. This collaborative effort not only ensures that everyone is well-prepared but also enhances the overall experience as everyone feels involved and invested in the success of the venture.

The Thrill of the Hunt

When the time comes to venture out into the wilderness, the thrill of the hunt truly begins. The excitement of tracking and spotting wildlife can be exhilarating. Sharing these moments with friends allows for shared joy when you encounter an animal. The experience of waiting in anticipation, the quiet moments of reflection, and the adrenaline rush when the opportunity arises can be magnified when you have good friends by your side. Their support and encouragement can make the experience even more rewarding.

Harvesting the Animal

When it comes to the moment of harvesting the animal, it is important to approach this part of the experience with respect and mindfulness. Taking the time to appreciate the significance of the hunt and the connection to nature can deepen your understanding of the process. Sharing this moment with friends can create a profound bond, as you all participate in the respectful handling of the animal and the subsequent tasks that follow.

Celebrating Your Success

After the successful harvest, the celebration begins. Whether it's preparing a meal together, sharing stories around the campfire, or simply reflecting on the day’s events, these moments are invaluable. The pride in the successful harvest, coupled with the shared experiences, can strengthen friendships and create lasting memories that you will cherish for years to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey of harvesting your animal is not solely about the act itself but encompasses the entire experience, enriched by the presence of good friends. From the planning stages to the final celebration, every aspect contributes to a memorable adventure. So, as you embark on this journey, remember to savor each moment, enjoy the company of your friends, and appreciate the beauty of nature that surrounds you.