Waterbuck hunting

A water dependent species never found far from permanent water. This large antelope is widely distributed throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The thirteen subspecies are primarily grouped into four two Waterbuck ellipse species found in Southern and East Africa. The other nine are found in the Defassa Waterbuck group found in Western and Central Africa. The commonly recognised Waterbuck group have a distinctive trademark white ring around its hindquarters and can be hunted in Namibia, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique and Tanzania.

Due to their water dependency, Waterbuck are generally hunted along river banks, floodplains, around water points and they also favour the adjoining dry hilly country. Typically, the spot and stalk method of hunting is used to approach these animals. They may also give themselves away when walking in rocky country as they are very heavy on their hooves, often kicking stones as they move. When caught out along a riverbed they will flee for the nearest treeline for cover. They are not affected by the heat of the day like most animals that need shade from the midday sun and can therefore be found at any time of the day. Trophy males may be found sunning themselves on a cold winter’s morning and in summer can spend the whole day hidden in a shady spot. In some instances the bulls may be very aggressive towards each other so only one bull is likely to be found in a herd, so keep moving and keep looking. We recommend the use of a heavy grain bullet as these animals are pretty solid and beware, a wounded Waterbuck will even charge a hunter.

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