Post by: tradtusker on October 09, 2008, 12:02:00 PM
For those that have traveled and hunted Africa you will know the magic draw the orange sunsets and the noises of the night have on a man's soul, awakening instincts and keeping fear and power on a knife edge.
This year i had a good friend James along for the 2 month trip we would join Robtattoo and Andy another bowhunter from here in the UK to hunt in Namibia for a week. Then we travel for a few weeks before heading into South Africa to help out of my uncle's safari operation for a month where we met up with Nigel (leopard).
ill start off on our hunt in Namibia...
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080702_1261.jpg)
Couldn't stop Rob grinning all the way there
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080703_1279.jpg)
First morning
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080704_1323-2.jpg)
James was the first with blood on the ground, this was his first trad kill he turned out to be a killer with that Silvertip of his as the trip played out.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080706_7869.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080704_1350.jpg)
Got my dad into trad archery and this is his first trad bow kill
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080704_1359.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080707_7911.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080711_8010.jpg)
Namibia is a pretty place
Post by: tradtusker on October 09, 2008, 12:04:00 PM
shot this pig for the leopard bait they where setting up for the next group of hunters
then i got a really nice Red Hartebeest
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080707_0070.jpg)
we had a great hunt there but did not see the game numbers we had hoped and there had been plenty of gun hunting on the property just before we arrived, the guide had said it was a bow only property but but i found out otherwise from the trackers
!["[dntthnk]"]("graemlins/dntthnk.gif" "\"\"")
:( "helps if you can speak a bit of there lingo" after the hunt we would drop Rob and Andy off back in Windhoek for there flight home.
Then with GPS, supplies and gear we headed north...
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080717_8849.jpg)
Post by: tradtusker on October 09, 2008, 12:11:00 PM
we would head north occasionally heading for the coast then up to Puros up North..
James and i would head out early mornings to see if we could cut elephant tracks and see what we could find.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080714_0133.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080714_2299.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080714_8426.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080714_8368.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080714_2302.jpg)
heading through this stuff i was a bit concerned we would walk into an elephant which could have got interesting quickly luckily nothing
Post by: tradtusker on October 09, 2008, 12:21:00 PM
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080715_8610-1.jpg)
back at camp listening to the night creatures awaken watching the star filled skies and the smell the game meat cooking over the crackling coals earnt from the bows we carried, fills you with life
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080716_8817.jpg)
more camp meat
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080716_8659.jpg)
Post by: swampjoe on October 09, 2008, 12:27:00 PM
Post by: tradtusker on October 09, 2008, 12:29:00 PM
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080712_8091.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080717_8836-1.jpg)
then finally we spotted and nice Bull. After checking the wind and escape routes we went in for a closer look (http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080716_8722.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080716_8707.jpg)
can't help smiling when you experience cool encounters like that, better that seeing the animals in a park or zoo.
Post by: tradtusker on October 09, 2008, 12:32:00 PM
Post by: hunt it on October 09, 2008, 12:46:00 PM
Post by: Falk on October 09, 2008, 01:12:00 PM
lucky fellows :thumbsup:
Post by: Chris Surtees on October 09, 2008, 03:15:00 PM
Post by: Zenzele on October 09, 2008, 05:26:00 PM
Post by: LEOPARD on October 09, 2008, 05:42:00 PM
Africa is an amazing place, that I hold very dear to my heart! It's an absolute disease, that once caught, there is no cure! I not only recommend, but insist that every hunter gets there one way or another! Hopefully Andy and I can share a bit of our home with everyone else here on TG.... I'm sad I didn't manage to join the guys in Namibia, but I had a fantastic time in SA none the less! Unfortunately I didn't get as many kills as I had wanted and planned to, but I did kill 2 very nice animals. I got a bunch of hunting in , and came away with some of the best hunting memories and experiences! It was an absolute pleasure sharing so much time in the field hunting with Andy and James! Two great guys! :D
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0452.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0464.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0508.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0460.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_2938.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0586.jpg)
My first trad kill...
These are just a few tasters of the many to come! I've still got a bunch of sorting and editing to do on my photos, so will be posting more as I finish them! Hope everyone enjoys this thread! :thumbsup:
Post by: Trad Man 25 on October 09, 2008, 09:26:00 PM
Nice work so far Guys,
James
Post by: Chris Surtees on October 10, 2008, 01:46:00 AM
Post by: Al Kidner on October 10, 2008, 02:34:00 AM
Keep the pics comming mate,
AK.
Post by: Benny Nganabbarru on October 10, 2008, 02:58:00 AM
Post by: tradtusker on October 10, 2008, 07:04:00 AM
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080713_8167.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080717_0173.jpg)
pretty much everyone in the group wanted one of these but it wasn't to be...nearly though.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080717_8954.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080715_8634.jpg)
Post by: Benny Nganabbarru on October 10, 2008, 07:14:00 AM
Post by: tradtusker on October 10, 2008, 07:16:00 AM
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080721_9365.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080721_9466.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080722_9660.jpg)
hows this for a cool thing we where driving to sossus vlei when we see a sign for "hand made knives" like any real men we had to stop and have a look there we met a Swedish knife maker that had a big tract of land when i walked into his house i see trad bows all over the walls :D turns out he has his own archery range on his farm so we had to go field test it.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080723_9810.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080723_9801.jpg)
social weaver nest on his farm
Post by: tradtusker on October 10, 2008, 07:33:00 AM
this is going to be a pretty photo heavy post bear with us
of course i don't know many bowhunters that don't have an interest in the animals here are some pics... (http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080717_8895.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080719_9089.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080719_9098.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080719_9101.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080719_9112.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080719_9145.jpg)
Post by: tradtusker on October 10, 2008, 07:38:00 AM
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080719_9097.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080717_9033.jpg)
that is it from Namibia time to head South East into South Africa...meet up with Nigel
Post by: Benny Nganabbarru on October 10, 2008, 07:40:00 AM
Post by: tradtusker on October 10, 2008, 07:49:00 AM
Post by: tradtusker on October 10, 2008, 08:12:00 AM
good size Baobab
here is a young eland bull i shot walk and stalk as he trotted past me at about 13m the hit was to far back and we spooked him following up ended up taking 2 hits with the .308 then then 2 more arrows to put him down (tuff), so not a full bowkill but an awesome hunt never the less
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080804_2638-2.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080809_4145.jpg)
Post by: tradtusker on October 10, 2008, 08:15:00 AM
Post by: Benny Nganabbarru on October 10, 2008, 08:38:00 AM
Post by: LEOPARD on October 10, 2008, 12:15:00 PM
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0622-2.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0619.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0475.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0513.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0476.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0824.jpg)
Post by: LEOPARD on October 10, 2008, 12:47:00 PM
The highlight of the trip for me was taking a really nice Impala ram with my longbow. Here's the story.....
The day started out pretty hectic with lots of stuff to do around the lodge. We finally finished up and got our stuff together at about 9am, and were in the landy on our way to spend the rest of the day in the hide! About 5 minutes out of the lodge, Mark radioed Andy and asked for the 2 of us to go help him track an animal that had been wounded by a client. We hadn't spent much time in the hide so far in the trip, and the next few weeks were looking pretty hectic with guests, so Andy told me to drop him off to give Mark a hand, and to carry on to the hide and spend the rest of the day in the hide alone. He said if they found the animal quick enough, he'd join me later on!
I arrived at the hide, set up and started the wait! After about 2 hours of sitting with no action, 2 very nice Kudu Bulls came in to water (pics above). I photographed them, and contemplated shooting the one. But they were a little out of my budget as a student, so I left them! ;)
The Kudu milled around for a while, then left. And as you do, I seriously regretted not shooting one! :D About 30 minutes after the Kudu left, a big herd of about 40 Impala came in to water. I was absolutely buzzing! I knew I'd get a shot, and my heart was going like a roller coaster! The herd consisted of mainly females and small males, with one very nice trophy. The trophy came in and started drinking only about 18 yards from the hide. I started drawing on him and a small one walked in front, so I let down. Then he was covered by females and smaller males and out of sight for about a minute. I decided that I might not get a chance at him again, so I should take a female. As I had settled on female I was going to shoot and was preparing for the shot, the big boy walked out from the water and stood alone looking out to the distance. It was a long shot tho! I contemplated for a second, and decided to take the shot. I readied, drew, and anchored, then another small one walked in front. So I let down again. Took a few breaths, and did the same as before. This time I hit anchor and felt very comfortable, and before I knew it the arrow was on it's way and I watched as the fletch disappeared right behind the shoulder, but what looked too low! My initial gut feeling was - "Oh damn, I've misjudged the distance and hit him too low!" He trotted off about 30 meters from where he stood when I shot him, and stood under a tree. He looked around twice, then fell over and was out for the count!
I've never seen an animal die as quickly as he did, after a shot in the chest! He was out within a matter of seconds. I dead centered the heart, just goes to show how low the heart sits on African game. My arrow passed completely thru and fell on the ground behind him. I was using my 54" Windauer Wolverine Longbow - 68# @ 27", with CX Terminator Selects tipped with 250g Zwickey No Mercy broadheads. Total arrow weight was 600g.
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0637.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0641.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0650.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0659.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0660.jpg)
Post by: LEOPARD on October 10, 2008, 12:50:00 PM
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0663.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0664.jpg)
After shooting him, Andy and James came over to congratulate me. We were all pretty hungry, so decided to cut the heart out, make a fire, and have some grub! ;) There's nothing like the feeling of eating something that you've just killed, especially in a place as special as this!
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0674.jpg)
Post by: LEOPARD on October 10, 2008, 12:55:00 PM
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_2833.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_2866.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_2871.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_2926.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3019.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_4193.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_4184.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_4197.jpg)
Post by: LEOPARD on October 10, 2008, 01:01:00 PM
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0783.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0787.jpg)
That's it from me for a bit, this should keep you all going for a while.... :thumbsup:
Post by: robtattoo on October 10, 2008, 04:13:00 PM
Post by: Chris Surtees on October 10, 2008, 04:35:00 PM
Post by: Brent Hill on October 10, 2008, 04:55:00 PM
Post by: Benny Nganabbarru on October 10, 2008, 07:14:00 PM
Post by: L82HUNT on October 10, 2008, 08:26:00 PM
Post by: tradtusker on October 11, 2008, 07:38:00 AM
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080813_0684.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080825_0870.jpg)
we tried to do as much walk and stalk hunting as we could as there is just only so long i can sit in a hide, every time we went out we where onto game in all the time iv hunted there iv never been so consistent in getting close to game. even though there is a big difference in getting close and then getting a shot i still felt great every time you sneak into the animals comfort zone.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080819_0817.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080818_0255.jpg)
like Nige said we used the Kopjes all the time when hunting/scouting. we also used them for our camp. (http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080823_0331.jpg)
all of us carried Robtatto knive for the trip man did they get a good work out :thumbsup: thanks Rob :notworthy:
Post by: tradtusker on October 11, 2008, 07:58:00 AM
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080816_0750-2.jpg)
here is the healed over wound from the other shoulder.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080816_0753.jpg)
Post by: tradtusker on October 11, 2008, 08:06:00 AM
this ended up being a team effort between James and myself, long story wont ever forget that one.
Post by: tradtusker on October 11, 2008, 08:29:00 AM
After a while i had covered some ground and was getting close on one of the dry riverbeds so i slowed my speed down even more, it was hot and dry so the ground was noisy. I was going to skirt past a area of thick bush but changed my mind at the last minuet as i got in i caught movement and saw a Bushbuck ram moving towards the river i followed quickly and quietly but could not again on him when i got to the river i lost him and thought he might have sensed me and ran.
i stood on a rock on the edge of the river bed to see if he would cross the river if he hadn't already done so thinking to my self that it was over, suddenly saw a shimmer of red and white in the tall grass on the other side of the river i picked up my bino's and saw the bushbuck, i quickly decided a route, nocked and arrow and slipped into the river where i new i could be almost completely silent at 18meters i stopped took a deep breath raised my bow and drew back then i heard the unmistakable sound of my broadhead smashing though ribs a few crashes and then nothing.
The bush he was in was thick so i backed off and climbed back onto the rock i had spotted him from where i picked through the thick bush with my bino's to see if i could find any sign of him, i called nige and who ran all the way from where we was to get to me (about 3kms). After waiting a while and talking about it we decided to follow we found the the arrow covered in blood then not 40m from where i hit him he lay dead!
out of everything iv ever shot with the bow (Water Buff included) i have never felt what i felt at that moment and i can't describe it.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080820_0282.jpg)
Post by: LEOPARD on October 11, 2008, 10:14:00 AM
While working on the ranch, I had the pleasure of accompanying and helping Mark (our uncle) on a tour in the Kruger National Park. We took 2 guests from the USA around the park for 3 days. Photography is a passion for me, so here's some of my pics from the Kruger! The Kruger is a very special place, and I really do recommend that if you are in South Africa, you make an effort to go there at least once!
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3099-1.jpg)
Elephant
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3116-1.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0891.jpg)
Spotted Hyaena
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3137-1.jpg)
Elephant
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0894.jpg)
Lilac Breasted Roller
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3259-2.jpg)
Buffalo
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0977.jpg)
Impala Lilly
Post by: LEOPARD on October 11, 2008, 10:16:00 AM
Elephant
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0990.jpg)
Hippo
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3273-1.jpg)
Buffalo
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3070.jpg)
Swainsons Spur Fowl
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3357-2.jpg)
Elephant Family
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3104.jpg)
Sand Grouse
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3383-2.jpg)
Me on a bush walk in the park...
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3095.jpg)
Vervet Monkey
Post by: LEOPARD on October 11, 2008, 10:18:00 AM
White Backed Vulture
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3180.jpg)
White Breasted Bee Eater
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3185.jpg)
Impala Ewe
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3290.jpg)
Ground Hornbill
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3300.jpg)
Crocodile
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3342.jpg)
Black-Eyed Bulbul
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3390.jpg)
White Rhino
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3232.jpg)
Elephant & Hippo
Post by: LEOPARD on October 11, 2008, 10:25:00 AM
Impala
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3394.jpg)
White Rhino...this was on the bush walk. We were only 30 meters from this herd, and they were as chilled as a freezer! :D It was absolutely incredible experiencing these prehistoric looking animals so close!
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3400.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3443.jpg)
African Hoopoe
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3448.jpg)
Natal Spur Fowl
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3451.jpg)
Red Billed Hornbill
Post by: LEOPARD on October 11, 2008, 10:47:00 AM
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_3402.jpg)
Post by: IndianaBowman on October 11, 2008, 02:04:00 PM
Post by: tradtusker on October 11, 2008, 03:53:00 PM
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080814_2769.jpg)
great memories with great friends id do it all again tomorrow
hope you enjoy..
Post by: LEOPARD on October 11, 2008, 05:40:00 PM
Yep, it sure was an awesome trip! There's not much that beats sharing a hunt in the African bush with mates like this! It was a pleasure Andy & James! :D I can't wait for the next trip!
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_0902-2.jpg)
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t98/nigelivy/2008/20080801_sa/IMG_4169.jpg)
I hope everyone has enjoyed sharing our experience with us! ;)
Post by: Benny Nganabbarru on October 11, 2008, 11:55:00 PM
Post by: Al Kidner on October 12, 2008, 06:56:00 AM
AK.
Post by: chrisg on October 12, 2008, 01:35:00 PM
chrisg
Post by: davidthearcher on October 12, 2008, 08:23:00 PM
Post by: Trad Man 25 on October 12, 2008, 11:03:00 PM
Post by: SouthMDShooter on October 12, 2008, 11:30:00 PM
Post by: Sant-Ravenhill on October 13, 2008, 05:40:00 PM
Congratulations and enjoy every single moment!
Post by: Trad Man 25 on October 13, 2008, 06:45:00 PM
Post by: Trad Man 25 on October 13, 2008, 06:56:00 PM
Post by: Trad Man 25 on October 13, 2008, 07:12:00 PM
Post by: Trad Man 25 on October 13, 2008, 07:17:00 PM
Post by: Trad Man 25 on October 13, 2008, 07:28:00 PM
Post by: tarponnut on October 13, 2008, 08:59:00 PM
Great photos and smiles. I can't take it when I see "hero shots" without a smile(if you aren't happy taking an animal with a bow why do it?)
Great stuff, keep it coming.
Post by: Trad Man 25 on October 14, 2008, 12:23:00 AM
Post by: Lonesome Wind on October 15, 2008, 11:56:00 AM
You guys look like you got it going on over there. Really enjoyed the pics guys, congrats on all your sucesses. Glad to see young people doing it the right way!
Post by: tradtusker on October 15, 2008, 12:38:00 PM
sounded like you had a blast out there got to see some amazing things and took some great animals. :thumbsup: 2010 aint gonna come quick enough for you :rolleyes: few of us keen to get back in 2010 as well
Post by: Irish on October 15, 2008, 01:11:00 PM
Post by: Lonesome Wind on October 15, 2008, 03:09:00 PM
Post by: tradtusker on October 15, 2008, 04:21:00 PM
Post by: BUFF on October 16, 2008, 09:57:00 AM
Post by: Lonesome Wind on October 16, 2008, 02:10:00 PM
Post by: beachbowhunter on October 16, 2008, 03:04:00 PM
Post by: tradtusker on October 16, 2008, 03:58:00 PM
iv killed a couple Water Buff over in Australia but that was in my compound days
Post by: JoLo on October 16, 2008, 04:32:00 PM
Thanks for sharing.
Post by: robtattoo on October 17, 2008, 03:52:00 AM
Quote
Originally posted by tradtusker:Always makes me laugh to hear a statement like this from Andy, he's only about 12! Just makes me realise what a great & intersting life he's led (can you feel the jealousy? :D ) Giraffe would be an awesome hunt!
iv killed a couple Water Buff over in Australia but that was in my compound days
Post by: Tim Fishell on October 17, 2008, 09:53:00 PM
Post by: Talondale on October 24, 2008, 03:36:00 PM
Post by: J-dog on November 04, 2008, 08:41:00 AM
Keep it up, Africa is a special place. Been there once and will return hopefully many more times.
Jason
Post by: paleFace on November 05, 2008, 12:12:00 AM
Post by: stick_string on November 24, 2008, 01:52:00 PM
Post by: Izzy on November 25, 2008, 01:17:00 PM
Post by: Featherbuster on November 26, 2008, 05:20:00 PM
Post by: Budog56 on November 29, 2008, 10:22:00 AM
Post by: Onions on December 08, 2008, 09:09:00 PM
Tradtusker wondering what bow you shoot?
chris <><
Post by: tradtusker on December 08, 2008, 11:35:00 PM
:thumbsup:
Post by: Onions on December 09, 2008, 07:00:00 AM
I love the looks/lines of your bow, what length is it?
I am sure I will see Shrew's at the Compton Shoot this summer!
chris <><
Post by: tradtusker on December 09, 2008, 09:49:00 AM
lots of guys in michigan with shrews
Post by: Ben Maher on December 11, 2008, 04:53:00 PM
Well done on the post and congratulations on a successful trip!!!
Post by: tradtusker on December 11, 2008, 08:00:00 PM
Post by: Hattrick on December 16, 2008, 10:04:00 PM
I have to give it too you, i`m a bit jealous of ur accomplishment's at suck a young age, this trad bug did not hit me till age 22- girls absorbed ages 16-22 got me side tracked..so i`ll have to say i`m looking forward to up an coming hunts posted from you guys the worlds the limit!! I hope you don't mind me reliving my youth through you. I have been to Africa recently, i just could not imagine doing it at ur ages THATS AWESOME!!! so much a head for you :thumbsup:
Post by: Bullfrog 1 on December 19, 2008, 09:17:00 AM
Post by: razorsharptokill on January 07, 2009, 07:16:00 AM
Post by: unclewhit on January 07, 2009, 03:47:00 PM
Post by: Guru on January 09, 2009, 01:05:00 PM
Post by: Michael Baker on January 11, 2009, 03:32:00 AM
Mate great stuff, will have to come for a run one day. Can't wait till all you guys come over to settle a few scores with the hogs. At least I can now put a face to a couple of the gang.
Good hunting
Mick
Post by: Gil on January 14, 2009, 07:54:00 AM
gil
Post by: penrosefred on January 21, 2009, 08:37:00 PM
Post by: tradtusker on January 21, 2009, 09:18:00 PM
i think i had 2 dozen new ones and a handful of flu flu's and range finders.
we also went through a lot of broadheads lol
Post by: Gav on January 27, 2009, 09:35:00 PM
Post by: Froggy on February 07, 2009, 08:06:00 AM
Froggy
Post by: gregg dudley on February 07, 2009, 09:20:00 AM
Post by: Kip on February 07, 2009, 11:10:00 AM
Post by: Bear Heart on February 15, 2009, 10:24:00 PM
Post by: Over&Under on February 16, 2009, 12:37:00 AM
Post by: tradtusker on February 28, 2009, 11:58:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by gregg dudley:wild woman with pink hair is my sister, we are a wild bunch :D
If you are going to take the time to line up your hunting buddies in a shot that allows you to get a wild woman in pink hair in the frame then you should zoom in a little more. Great hunt. Great pics.
Post by: Ned on March 01, 2009, 12:39:00 PM
Post by: LEOPARD on March 01, 2009, 06:22:00 PM
Thanks for the email too! :thumbsup: I'll send you an email this week!
Post by: gregg dudley on March 01, 2009, 08:53:00 PM
I hope she will get a kick out of the comment. Anyone with pink hair has got to have a great sense of humor! ;)
Post by: tradtusker on March 02, 2009, 12:21:00 AM
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IVY_20080716_8679-2.jpg)
she's not a bowhunter but she's killed a heap of game with the rifle
Post by: Trad Man 25 on March 02, 2009, 03:14:00 PM
I blame the bow, i don't now many guys shooting Hills and not going hungry :) :) :)
Post by: tradtusker on March 02, 2009, 03:28:00 PM
Post by: LEOPARD on March 04, 2009, 04:40:00 AM
Post by: Benny Nganabbarru on March 05, 2009, 02:15:00 AM
That's a wonderful shot, James.
What are the specs on your Hill?
Cheers!
Post by: Trad Man 25 on March 05, 2009, 11:13:00 AM
I did my time in those hides with that hill and only thing i could have shot was a Eland,
(passed up the shot) last thing i wanted was to put an arrow 2" deep in the side of an Eland.
Out of my million shots i bagged 2 rabbits :)
Ben, its a Take Down Cheeta, 70" 65lds at 28" im to 29draw and with some respectible scratches, dings and holes, this bows seen some action.
I think Hills are tanks as the best of times, and at 65+lds its to much, thus short draw ect makes for poor shooting.
Am wanting to buy a take down Hill Blank, + - 50lbs, I think that will help alot.
But on the current exchange rates,its no good. I have to wait for my money to be good agains the US$.
:( :(
James
Post by: Trad Man 25 on March 05, 2009, 11:17:00 AM
And if you run out of arrows, these take downs make really good bashing sticks. :) :) :)
Post by: Trad Man 25 on March 05, 2009, 11:27:00 AM
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i164/The-Last-Wild-Man/IVY_20080730_0498-1.jpg)
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i164/The-Last-Wild-Man/IVY_20080714_0133.jpg)
Post by: Trad Man 25 on March 05, 2009, 11:35:00 AM
I think its been a while since a Hill as seen once of these, it was just a little out of my price range, next time :)
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i164/The-Last-Wild-Man/IVY_20080717_2370.jpg)
Post by: tradtusker on March 05, 2009, 11:58:00 AM
Post by: tradtusker on March 05, 2009, 12:03:00 PM
Post by: Trad Man 25 on March 05, 2009, 02:10:00 PM
Post by: robtattoo on March 05, 2009, 05:32:00 PM
Post by: LEOPARD on March 05, 2009, 06:26:00 PM
Post by: Trad Man 25 on March 05, 2009, 06:34:00 PM
Post by: Kevin Taylor on March 09, 2009, 12:03:00 AM
Andy (tradtusker), what's the specs on your Shrew and arrows ??
Guys, that looks like a trip of a lifetime....I hope one day I can do something like that. Camping and hunting, moving from spot to spot....
Post by: tradtusker on March 09, 2009, 12:28:00 AM
now i shoot 700 gr beman MFX.
do what you can to see Africa Kevin its an amazing place, if you need any info just give me a shout.
Post by: Kingwouldbe on March 24, 2009, 04:58:00 PM
I love it, you guys had a awesome time, I would love to do this type of Africa hunt.
Thank you so much for sharing it with us, vary special time you had.
:clapper: :clapper: :clapper:
Post by: Gatekeeper on April 08, 2009, 09:44:00 AM
I was glad to read I wasn’t the only one to notice the pink hair. It kept me from sticking my foot in my mouth.
Post by: KentuckyTJ on April 14, 2009, 11:58:00 AM
T.J.
Post by: turkey522 on April 28, 2009, 06:38:00 AM
Terry
Post by: Chris O on May 10, 2009, 11:10:00 AM
Post by: LEOPARD on May 27, 2009, 06:41:00 AM
Post by: Chris O on July 21, 2009, 09:43:00 PM
Post by: straitera on August 12, 2009, 05:33:00 PM
Post by: LEOPARD on August 13, 2009, 04:35:00 AM
Andy and I, along with 5 others, will be embarking on a 12 day hunt in Australia in about 3 weeks time, so keep you eyes peeled for pics. It's gonna be a great trip, and lots of pics afterward! ;)
Nigel
Post by: Horne Shooter on August 17, 2009, 07:14:00 PM
The guys I'm going with are really good with video equipment so I hope to have a good record of the events. We leave on Sept. 8th so things are getting close.
Nigel and Andy have already experienced a life that few their age have the slightest clue about. "Freedom" and "adventure" are words that keep coming to mind. Just awesome guys...
Post by: tradtusker on August 19, 2009, 12:21:00 PM
hope you have a great trip, looking forward to your pics and stories when you get back
Post by: Horne Shooter on August 19, 2009, 08:05:00 PM
Post by: Littlemans-Grampa on August 21, 2009, 05:46:00 PM
Muz
May the Creator watch over us all! >>>------->
Post by: shakeyslim on November 11, 2009, 09:22:00 PM
Post by: calgarychef on December 14, 2009, 12:21:00 PM
the chef
Post by: FerretWYO on December 20, 2009, 09:23:00 PM
Post by: rushlush on January 07, 2010, 01:03:00 PM
Post by: Irish on January 07, 2010, 01:20:00 PM
Post by: tradtusker on January 08, 2010, 06:04:00 PM
let me see what i can work out whilst im there this year.
Post by: Fourarrows on May 16, 2010, 06:26:00 PM
Post by: MERGANZER on May 19, 2010, 11:40:00 PM
Ganzer
Post by: aussieman8 on May 31, 2010, 04:26:00 PM
Post by: tradsniper on January 14, 2011, 10:09:00 PM
Post by: Cyclic-Rivers on January 18, 2011, 09:41:00 PM
Post by: Fritz on January 21, 2011, 09:20:00 AM
Post by: hightop_hunter on January 22, 2011, 01:40:00 AM
great pics to you should make up a calendar. Id buy one http://tradgang.com/noncgi/icons/icon14.gif
Post by: J. Oles on January 23, 2011, 10:50:00 PM
Thanks for sharing.... I need to put something like that together from Kodiak.
Post by: DXH on February 01, 2011, 01:16:00 AM
Post by: BearAddict72 on April 30, 2011, 08:56:00 AM
Post by: primitivealltheway on June 14, 2011, 07:55:00 PM
Post by: GreyGoose on June 21, 2011, 12:56:00 PM
Post by: tradtusker on July 13, 2011, 07:13:00 PM
Post by: FerretWYO on July 14, 2011, 05:06:00 PM
Post by: Geezer on September 25, 2011, 01:35:00 AM
Post by: OHtar on September 25, 2011, 09:40:00 PM
Post by: pete p on February 23, 2012, 11:43:00 AM
Post by: NormanDale33 on February 23, 2012, 05:40:00 PM
Post by: Friend on February 26, 2012, 02:00:00 AM
Truely hope that you again may find time to take us on another epic adventure.
Much thanks!
Post by: Bowwild on March 04, 2012, 08:18:00 AM
I have an unbelievably generous opportunity to spend 14 days in South Africa this July 31-August 13th. About 6 days would be spent bowhunting with about 4 spent teaching archery. A South African Professional Hunter Association will be the host. The decision will be based upon whether or not my son can get approval from his work (University) to go with me. Neither of us have ever gone.
Post by: calgarychef on March 07, 2012, 02:09:00 PM
Post by: Steve Clandinin on March 19, 2012, 02:59:00 AM
Post by: awbowman on April 11, 2012, 09:00:00 AM
Post by: Horne Shooter on April 14, 2012, 12:55:00 PM
Post by: Bear Heart on June 04, 2012, 11:39:00 PM
Post by: South MS Bowhunter on August 02, 2012, 11:39:00 AM
Post by: rbcorbitt on August 05, 2012, 07:42:00 AM
Great pics, and great thread!
Post by: ArrowCrester on December 08, 2012, 07:15:00 PM
What a great experience… you are lucky to have an uncle with a hunting operation over in South Africa….
Congrats on all the great pic's and experience
Bob
Post by: NormanDale33 on December 10, 2012, 11:02:00 AM
Post by: coaster500 on December 11, 2012, 12:50:00 PM
Great hunt, story and pictures Andy!!!
:campfire:
Post by: tradtusker on December 12, 2012, 03:43:00 PM
But its stuff I can't post here (wrong bow) Some serious walk and stalk bowhunting adventures through.
Been hunting Australia and the US pretty hard recently....Africa is starting to call again though.....We have a Survival type Backpack trip in the planning stages.
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IMG_1802.jpg)
(http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h101/tradtusker/IMG_1541.jpg)
Post by: Damian1 on December 20, 2012, 03:06:00 PM
Post by: John146 on January 12, 2013, 10:42:00 PM
Thanks guys, Todd
Post by: Safari Scott on January 24, 2013, 06:14:00 PM
Post by: TheFatboy on January 25, 2013, 09:15:00 AM
I'm going to Namibia myself in 2 months, and I will get my first chance to shoot game with a traditional bow. Where abouts in Namibia did you go? As in, the name of the lodge :)
Post by: rushlush on February 14, 2013, 02:20:00 PM
Post by: BuckeyeGuy on February 15, 2013, 08:49:00 AM
Post by: tradtusker on February 16, 2013, 09:17:00 PM
Andreas, Enjoy your trip, wish you the best of luck with your trad bow. Your going to have a blast.