First (I hope) African Safari

[MountainWalk]

Have read in many places that your average wildebeest is one of the toughest animals on the continent.

[Bob33]

Africa is a magical place. I never had an interest in going until someone talked me into doing so about ten years ago. I've been back twice since and have another trip planned for next summer.

[rasbo]

Funny I've never wanted to go to Africa, but I've loved all the stories about hunts far back as a child. Congrats on an awesome hunt

[RJW]

What did that Kudu measure if I might ask>

[Bushcraft]

I've had the privilege of visiting the trophy rooms of some of the most renowned international hunters on the planet (in fact, a new one to me just last night).

You sir, have taken an absolutely stellar Kudu. Congrats!

[wheels]

awesome kudo is dream animal

[Rob]

Three curled kudu is a proper trophy!  Well done!

Any other animals taken besides those 2?

[washingtonmuley]

Very Nice!! I made my first trip to Africa last August and can't wait to go back.

[Iamyourhuckleberry]

tallcooljuan, yours is an exceptional Kudu! Congratulations on your successful hunts!

In my opinion, there is no place on the planet quite like Africa, if you're a hunter. The number of opportunities per safaris cannot be matched elsewhere. To see it, be there surrounded by it, and to experience all the sights and sounds associated with such an amazing place does nothing other than toss a person over the top! I have heard many times, "Once Africa gets into your blood, you'll be back.' I can attest, this statement is TRUE! I have been to the Dark Continent many times. I cannot wait to get back! Every trip (and every day) presents a new challenge and new opportunities.

Would love to hear more of your stories.

[tallcooljuan]

I fell in love with the Gemsbok.  Graceful and beautiful to just watch.  I didn't take one and it haunts me.
Besides the Kudu and Wildebeest we took an Impala, Zebra, and Red Hartebeest.  We stalked several Hartebeest over a day and a half.  My PH was at his wit's end and giving up on our latest long stalk when he looked up and saw a bull and two cows.  Hartebeest bulls and cows look the same and you have to spot testicles to know the difference for sure.  He wasted no time in putting me on the sticks.  The shot was too far for my comfort.  It's much harder to shoot standing than I would have thought- and I practiced for weeks before going.
The first shot was a miss.  My PH said I hit some brush.  He was being polite and generous.  When the bull cleared some more brush and the cows he gave me the go-ahead.  Perfect hit this time.  220yds.  A chip shot for laying prone or sitting with low sticks, but I had a hard time with safari sticks.

[Iamyourhuckleberry]

Shooting from sticks is definitely something a person should practice prior to Africa. Thanks for your post. It helped me reminisce.