MY SHORT HUNTING STORY

By: Ismail Kajee

Inever knew that hunting would become part of my life. I have only been hunting for just over three years now, but I get so excited when I know its time for the next hunt. The week before the hunt the anticipation is just too much. The days drag on and Friday just won’t come. But then it’s time to pack the guns and to head for the open road and it feels like I am driving to freedom. This hunt was to take place in Jansenville in the Eastern Cape. After a long 7 hour journey, with my good friend and hunting buddy Yaseen Hanware, all the way from Cape Town, we arrived at Meerlist Farm. I have hunted here before and you get that home away from home feeling when you’re welcomed with open arms by your hosts. We unpack our stuff and while sitting round the fire start making plans for the next day’s hunt. We wake up before sunrise the next day and the morning air is crisp, cold and fresh. I am ready for the hunt. The plan is to get dropped off and then to start to a walk and stalk in the area the farmer said he has seen Nyala’s the week before. We start walking and it is very dry and rocky terrain. Walking and keeping your footing and trying to spot where the animals are is easier said than done. Suddenly after nearly an hour Henloo, the PH, whispers softly for me to stop. My heart skips a beat. At first I miss the Nyala. He is so well camouflaged. Then I spot the beautiful Nyala bull about 80 meters to my left. He slowly starts moving away from me but comes to a standstill 10 metres further on, this gives me time for a shot. My heart is beating in my throat. I know I need to calm down before attempting the shot. I take a deep breath, open the shooting sticks, cock the rifle and take careful aim. I slowly pull the trigger and the rifle kicks in my shoulder. A perfect heart shot from the .308 with the 180gr Federal Fusion bullet. I keep my eye on the spot the Nyala went down. I have heard to many stories of animals coming back to life and then you have to trek after them for days. But the shot was true and the hunt is a success. We get the Nyala back to the farm house cold room and decided to celebrate the hunt with a braai in a dry riverbed. Nothing but good company, relaxing sounds of nature, and the crackle of the fire. Perfect ending to a perfect day.

Early morning on the farm with the air crisp and fresh

Having a braai in the river bed with Neil, Bradley, Yaseem, Henloo and myself