Hunting methods in Namibia
Hunting Methods in Namibia: An Overview of the Three Most Common Hunting Techniques
Hunting in Namibia presents an incredible opportunity to experience nature at its finest. There are three primary methods of hunting in Namibia: bowhunting, stalking, and sitting in a blind. Each hunting method has its own advantages and disadvantages, which can be influenced by your hunting goals and the specific animal you’re tracking.
All three hunting methods provide a wonderful chance to immerse yourself in nature, to witness the beauty and grandeur of the African landscape, and to embrace the present moment. Here, you’ll find an overview of the three most common hunting techniques in Namibia:
The most common hunting method is stalking.
Stalking through the African bush.
Stalking is the most common type of hunting in Namibia. It involves moving on foot while tracking and pursuing game. Those who engage in stalking must move quietly and against the direction of the wind. This form of hunting demands a high level of concentration, nerves, endurance, and experience.
Walk & stalk
Stalking hunt in unfamiliar terrain.
With the Walk & Stalk approach, you move through the bush without the pressure of targeting a specific trophy species. This adds an element of unpredictability and excitement to stalking, as you won’t know which animal you’re aiming for until you’re close. This creates intense and unique moments to experience nature.
Hunting from a blind
Patience during hunting in a concealed blind in Namibia.
Hunting from a blind is also a commonly used hunting method in Namibia. In this approach, a blind (a concealed shelter) is set up, and one waits for the game to come within range. Unlike in other countries, the blind is often not an elevated platform but rather a hiding place made from vegetation, leaves, and other natural elements.
The hunting guide determines the optimal distance between the blind and the spot where the game can be hunted. Depending on the species being targeted, the blind may be positioned near a waterhole or a “bait,” which is used for hunting predators like hyenas or leopards.
This method requires a great deal of patience, as animals are highly attentive and won’t approach the blind if they sense anything unusual.
A Traditional Hunting Method Modernized: Bowhunting in Namibia
Hunting with Bow and Arrow in Namibia
Bowhunting is another common hunting method in Namibia, rooted in the traditions of the Bushmen.
Modern bowhunting was legalized in 1997, making it a relatively recent development. This hunting method demands the highest level of skill and ethical behavior. It’s a challenging and thrilling way to hunt, requiring immense concentration, nerves, endurance, and experience. Yet, it also presents ethical considerations and technical challenges.
In Namibia, it’s illegal to bowhunt the following wildlife:
- Elephant
- Hippopotamus
- Crocodile
- Buffalo
- Lion
- Leopard.
Bowhunting is therefore suitable exclusively for the pursuit of plains game, such as Kudu, Zebra, Oryx, Impala, and more.
ANY QUESTIONS?
This hunting guide is designed to assist you in making the right choice for your hunting journey. Do you need more information for that?