Bow hunting eland South Africa

Bow hunting eland South Africa with the best eland bow hunters

This page is dedicated to giving expert bow hunting eland advice. We are committed to ethical bow hunting practices in the form of sustainable bow hunting, allowing us and all our future generations to continue our noble bow hunting sport.

Our team of experienced professional hunters, trackers and skinners have years of knowledge and expertise in locating and ethically hunting eland. We believe in responsible hunting that preserves the ecosystem and ensures the survival of wildlife populations.

When you choose to hunt with us, you’re not just participating in a sport; you’re contributing to the conservation of these magnificent animals and investing in the hunting rights of our future generations.

Bow hunting eland in South Africa: A challenging and rewarding pursuit

Eland, the largest antelope in Africa, offer a formidable challenge for bow hunters. Hunting these magnificent creatures requires patience, skill, and top-quality equipment.

These huge animals are gregarious, meaning they often travel in herds. This social behavior can present both challenges and opportunities. While it may be easier to locate a herd, it also increases the risk of being seen by other individuals.

 

Eland subspecies  

South Africa is home to several eland subspecies, including the Cape eland and Livingstone eland. The Lord Derby eland occurs North of the equator in countries such as Cameroon and CAR. The most majestic of the three African subspecies of eland is the Lord Derby eland.

 

A giant among antelopes

Large eland bulls, particularly the Cape eland (Taurotragus oryx), can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, presenting a significant challenge for hunters and transportation personnel. Their immense size and strength demand careful handling and preparation.

Good luck on your eland hunting adventure!

Bow hunting eland: a not-so-popular choice

Eland are not as tall as moose, but are much stockier than moose. The Cape eland do not occur on all bow hunting concessions we make use of, so if a big eland bull is in your sights, let us know in advance so we can make the required booking. Eland is not always on the list for first time Africa hunters, but be warned, once you see them you can never un-see them. We offer affordable bow hunting eland safaris.

Bow hunting eland not always a popular choice

Essential equipment for bow hunting eland South Africa

Ensure you’re equipped for a successful eland bow hunting adventure in South Africa. This guide outlines the key considerations for selecting the right equipment, including kinetic energy, arrows, shot distance, broadheads, and draw weight. The following aspects all adhere to the South African bow hunting regulations, as set out in the: NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT: BIODIVERISTY ACT, 2004 (ACT NO. 10 OF 2004)

Eland are huge animals. The correct bow hunting equipment and accurate shot placement are critical.

Kinetic Energy (KE) for bow hunting eland:
  • The minimum kinetic energy (KE) required on our guided eland bow hunts is 60 ft / lb
 
Arrows for bow hunting eland:
  • A minimum arrow velocity of between 270 fps and 285 fps is required
  • An arrow weight of 450 grains (gr) is needed
 
Broad heads:
  • Broad heads for eland is a minimum of 100 grains (gr) to 125 grains (gr)
  • A cut on contact fixed 3-blade broad head
  • A fixed blade 2-blade broad head with bleeders.
  • we prefer you do not use mechanical broad heads due to the size of the animal.
  • We will make the call on your trophy eland. You must concentrate on shot placement. 
 
Minimum draw weight:
  • The recommended draw weight for bow hunting eland in South Africa is any increment greater than minimum draw mass. Any draw weight equal to or greater than 90 lb is prescribed for our affordable eland bow hunting deals.
Bow hunting eland draw weight
KE bow hunting eland

Bow hunting eland equipment

Sights and release aids: personalizing your setup
  • The choice of bow type, sights, and release aids for bow hunting eland is highly personal and depends on your individual preferences and shooting style. Therefore, a trigger release might work well for one archer, but a thumb release might be more suitable for another. 
 
Experiment with different options

Find the combination that feels most comfortable and allows you to shoot consistently and accurately. Consider factors such as:

  • Bow type: Compound, recurve, or longbow?
  • Sight type: Pin sights, scope sights, or hybrid options?
  • Release aid: Trigger release, thumb release, index finger release, or handheld release?

The best equipment is the equipment that works best for you. Take the time to test various options and find the setup that enhances your performance and enjoyment of bow hunting.

Eland bow hunting equipment
Bow hunting the largest antelope in the world

Bow hunting eland prices

Eland bow hunting prices South Africa 2024 and 2025

The Trophy Trails Outfitters bow hunting eland price for 2024 and 2025 is $ 2 750.

Eland cull bow hunting prices: in the odd event we have non-trophy and female cull hunts available these animals will be priced at $ 800 per animal. Female eland may only be cull hunted from May to July.

We cannot exchange cull animals for trophy animals on any bow hunting package. Cull animals may only be bow hunted in addition to your booked package hunt.

 

The price range for bow hunting eland in South Africa in 2024 can vary significantly depending on several factors:

  • Outfitter: Different outfitters may charge varying rates.
  • Location: Hunting in certain regions might be more or less expensive.
  • Package: The specific package you choose, including accommodations, meals, and additional services, will influence the overall cost.
  • Trophy quality: The size and age of the eland you’re aiming for can also affect the price. If you cannot live without a gold medal eland trophy bow hunt bull, we know where to take you. They unfortunately do come at a price.

Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000 or more for a bow hunting eland safari in South Africa. However, it’s important to note that these figures can fluctuate. 

Bow hunting eland South Africa prices

Considerations for shot placement when bow hunting eland

Accurate shot placement is crucial when bow hunting eland. This ensures a clean kill and ethical hunting. Here are some key considerations:

  • Vital organs: The most effective shot placement is typically aimed at the vital organs, including the heart and lungs. These areas are located in the chest cavity, just behind the front legs.
  • Avoidance of bone: While a bone shot can potentially kill an eland, it may cause unnecessary suffering. Aim for soft tissue areas to ensure a quick and humane kill.
  • Ethical hunting: Always prioritize ethical hunting practices. Avoid taking shots that are unlikely to result in a clean kill, and be prepared to track a wounded eland if necessary.
  • Beware of the dewlap: Do not attempt a frontal chest shot on bulls. The dewlap is such it can, and usually does, deflect an arrow. Avoid a wounded eland at all cost as it is guaranteed you will be wasting a lot of hunting time trying to find your trophy.
  • Angle: The angle of the shot can significantly impact the effectiveness of your aim. A quartering-away shot, often provides a better angle for a clean kill if the angle is not too acute.
  • Distance: The distance to the target will influence the point of impact. Practice shooting at various distances to ensure accuracy.

Tips for a successful shot:

  • Patience: Wait for the right shot opportunity. Rushing a shot can lead to mistakes.
  • Accuracy: Focus on aiming precisely at the vitals.
  • Ethical hunting: Prioritize a clean kill to minimize suffering.
  • Practice: Regular practice will improve your shooting skills and increase your chances of a successful hunt.

Eland are large and powerful animals. Approach wounded animals with caution, maintain a safe distance, and follow the guidance of your professional hunter.

Bow hunting eland shot placement image
Eland bow shot placement diagram

Eland habitat and bow hunting season South Africa

Habitat:

Eland are widely distributed across South Africa, inhabiting various habitats, including:

  • Savannas: Open grasslands with scattered trees and shrubs.
  • Bushveld: Similar to savannas, bushveld areas offer suitable habitat.
  • Mixed woodlands: Areas with a mix of trees and shrubs.

Hunting season:

The hunting season for eland in South Africa typically runs from April to October. This period coincides with the cooler months, which are more comfortable for hunting and tracking eland.

Eland bow hunting tips and tricks

Choose the right equipment:

  • Bow: A powerful bow with a high draw weight is recommended to penetrate the eland’s vitals.
  • Arrows: Use broadheads specifically designed for big game, such as two-blade or three-blade broadheads.

Practice your shot:

  • Target practice: Spend time practicing your shooting technique, focusing on accuracy and consistency.
  • Distance estimation: Loan your range finder to your trusty PH for the duration of the eland hunt.

Take a steady shot:

  • Find a stable position: Ensure you have your feet apart for a stable stance.
  • Breath control: Practice deep, controlled breathing to steady your aim.

Respect the animal:

  • Ethical hunting: Always prioritize ethical hunting practices, ensuring a clean kill and minimizing suffering.
  • Follow regulations: All local hunting regulations and permits will be confirmed before your arrival and will be explained by your PH.

Enjoy the experience:

  • South Africa is a stunning country with diverse landscapes and wildlife. We offer the best South African hunting safaris while you enjoy the experience of exploring the African bush.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of a successful and enjoyable plains game hunting experience in South Africa.

Bow hunting equipment Africa bow hunting safari
Bow hunting broad heads Africa bow hunting safari
Draw weight required for African bow hunting safari

A typical bow hunting eland experience involves:

Arrival and orientation:

You’ll arrive at the hunting lodge where you’ll be met by the staff of the lodge. Usually, the PH is the one that picks you up at the Johannesburg International Airport. He / she will provide you with a briefing on the local area, safety guidelines, and hunting regulations.

 

Safari preparation:

Your PH will assist you in preparing your hunting gear and ensuring you have everything you need for your safari.

 

Hunting expeditions:

PH’s will use their expertise to locate suitable hunting areas and provide guidance on shot placement and ethical hunting practices.

 

Game viewing:

In addition to hunting, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy game viewing other wildlife in their natural habitat from the comfort of your blind. Bring a good camera and a video camera. 

 

Accommodation:

You’ll stay at a comfortable hunting lodge, often with amenities such as swimming pools, game viewing platforms, and dining areas. Alternatively you can decide to upgrade to Five Star amenities without compromising hunting quality.

 

Trophy preparation:

Your successfully hunted eland will be prepared for delivery to the taxidermist.

Overall, a bow hunting eland experience in South Africa offers a unique combination of adventure, wildlife encounters, and the opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts.

 

Hunting experience:

  • Your hunt will be conducted from strategically placed blinds, including pit blinds, brick-and-mortar blinds, elevated blinds, or pop-up blinds, depending on the hunting strategy discussed with your professional hunter (PH).
  • Our experienced PHs have at least five years of plains game hunting experience, and many have over a decade of professional hunting expertise. Our most experienced guides are also qualified as dangerous game hunters.

 

Cost and packages:

  • Hunting package costs vary depending on the animals you choose to hunt. However, we provide clear written agreements outlining all associated costs.
  • Explore our plains game, dangerous game, and Five-Star Luxury bow hunting packages for detailed pricing and information.

 

Ethical hunting practices:

  • We actively contribute to conservation efforts by assisting local farmers with removing snares and eliminating stray dogs.
  • Adherence to specific regulations and guidelines regarding bow hunting equipment is essential for ethical and legal hunting practices. Please ensure your equipment meets all requirements.

By choosing our services, you can expect a memorable and ethical bow hunting experience in South Africa.

Bow hunting South Africa arrival and orientation
Bow hunting accommodation South Africa
Bow hunting preparations South Africa
South African bow hunting blinds
Eland bow hunting safaris South Africa
Bow hunting trophy eland South Africa