What do people think about “non-trophy” hunts

[Code4]

I recently had a chance to spend some time in a great camp in Zimbabwe. Around the camp fire, the property manger and I got into a very good discussion about “non-trophy” hunts. He and the PHs that hunt the property have had some trouble booking “non-trophy” hunts. In there case, “non-trophy” mostly means low scoring, but still old and mature animals.

Many people seem to view African hunting as “way to expensive.” I disagree, but that’s not the point. Many great PHs and camps offer some great “non-trophy” hunts at great rates.

So, I thought it was a good question to ask the AH community.

Is there really a lack of interest in these hunts, or are folks concerned that it might be substandard trip, or is it that once you commit to Africa you are targeting specific game and are committed to the cost? Or is it a marketing issue. I am genuinely curious.

Admittedly my “sitting room” is pretty full of taxidermy so the next trophy mount is not something I really do anyway, but I have really enjoyed the non-trophy hunts I’ve been able to do. I have also found them to be great for kids and new hunters to get a lot of very good hunting experience at very affordable rates.

Thoughts?

Where/who ?

 

[Stuart1970]

It's a very interesting topic. What constitutes a "trophy"? Anyone that hunts has to agree at some level that any game taken is a trophy. I realize there is a standard from country to country on a medal standard, but any game taken on the ground when you spot and stalk is a trophy. The experience in camp, the stories, the laughter, the sound when the sun goes down is the hunt. Game taken is a bonus!

 

[TKessel]

It's a very interesting topic. What constitutes a "trophy"? Anyone that hunts has to agree at some level that any game taken is a trophy. I realize there is a standard from country to country on a medal standard, but any game taken on the ground when you spot and stalk is a trophy. The experience in camp, the stories, the laughter, the sound when the sun goes down is the hunt. Game taken is a bonus!

Well said!

 

[Bob Nelson 35Whelen]

I recently had a chance to spend some time in a great camp in Zimbabwe. Around the camp fire, the property manger and I got into a very good discussion about “non-trophy” hunts. He and the PHs that hunt the property have had some trouble booking “non-trophy” hunts. In there case, “non-trophy” mostly means low scoring, but still old and mature animals.

Many people seem to view African hunting as “way to expensive.” I disagree, but that’s not the point. Many great PHs and camps offer some great “non-trophy” hunts at great rates.

So, I thought it was a good question to ask the AH community.

Is there really a lack of interest in these hunts, or are folks concerned that it might be substandard trip, or is it that once you commit to Africa you are targeting specific game and are committed to the cost? Or is it a marketing issue. I am genuinely curious.

Admittedly my “sitting room” is pretty full of taxidermy so the next trophy mount is not something I really do anyway, but I have really enjoyed the non-trophy hunts I’ve been able to do. I have also found them to be great for kids and new hunters to get a lot of very good hunting experience at very affordable rates.

Thoughts?

@Cleathorn
After hunting Namibia which was on the top of my bucket list and collecting a few good trophies if I did it again it would DEFINITELY be a cull hunt. If I had known then what I know now it would probably been a cull hunt first up. Far more bang for you buck when you are not bringing trophies home.
With covid the cost of my trophies and taxidermy would have added up to a lot more animals.
Don't get me wrong I'm glad I did what I did but at time I think photos and videos would have been just fine. I do get enjoyment out of my mounts, having a drink be it my morning coffee or evening tipple looking at my mounts and reliving the hunts.
Nowdays with the cost and hassle with trophies DEFINITELY a cull hunt.
Bob

Thanks for the information I'll check them out.
Does Nankara tannery soft tan their hides?
I plan on using a couple of large hides to make soft and hard gun cases, cartridge carriers, pouches and a few other items.

@Ridge Runner Yes they soft tan their hides. When I was there you could pick up AAA impala skins for 30 bucks each and zebra shins for as little as 80 bucks, BUT you have to go to the tannery direct in person.
If you go there leave your wallet and wife at the motel or she will find something she likes.
Mine found a beautiful handbag for 320 dollars but the quality will last a lifetime.
Bob

 

[Mark A Ouellette]

Cull hunts? You bet! Maximum fun at minimum cost...
Here are back to back hunting reports of my 2022 adventures with @Tally-Ho HUNTING SAFARIS . These include CBL lion in the Kalahari followed by cull hunting.

https://www.africahunting.com/threa...ses-hunt-with-tally-ho-hunting-safaris.71691/

SOUTH AFRICA: Cull Hunt With Tally-Ho HUNTING SAFARIS - October 2022

Cull Hunt at @Tally-Ho HUNTING SAFARIS – October 2022 I had arrived in SA on Sunday evening. We traveled to the Kalahari on Monday, hunted lionesses on Tuesday thru Thursday morning, and drove to Limpopo the remainder of Thursday. (See the thread Kalahari Lionesses with Tally Ho Safaris) The...

www.africahunting.com

 

[Hyde Hunter]

I might be wrong but I was fairly certain it is illegal to transport a thermal of any type from the US to RSA (or any where outside the US for that matter). JH has access to one over there.

I believe the State Dept consider them as military items and a costly permit is required