Overview
Rifle hunting can be done in several different ways. Spot-and-stalk is a highly successful hunting technique that is frequently use. Outfitters use vehicles to scout out areas where they might find herds of antelope or solitary rams and bulls, and then stalk on foot until they are within firing range.
Because most antelope species have weak eyesight, and because the usual shooting distance for this sort of hunting is 100 to 150 yards, camouflaged clothing is not necessary. To blend in with the environment, simply put on some neutral colours like green, brown, or khaki.
There are a variety of other important tips to keep in mind when spot-and-stalk hunting an antelope for the first time. Read on how to stalk your first antelope successfully.
1. Plan your stalk strategy ahead of time
First and foremost, you need a stalking strategy. It’s easy to spot game like antelope and rush in without giving the situation a thorough assessment.
The four most crucial considerations are the wind’s direction, the terrain features, the animal’s behaviour, and the presence of other animals in the vicinity.
Think about each of these factors and include them into your stalking strategy. Mark off distances using landmarks like rocks and trees between your current location and the point of aim.
Don’t wing it; instead, stick to the established strategy.
2. Always check the wind direction
The wind determines everything. You can’t outsmart the wind.
A herd of antelope might still consider a snapping twig to be caused by another buck, as with small motions in the bush. However, only human being emits a distinctively human smell. It’s likely that anything you’re trying to track has already left or is on the move if they can smell you.
Therefore, proper wind direction is crucial. Learn about thermals, study the local wind patterns, and keep an eye on the breeze. Finally, when plotting your stalk, if you come across any areas where you believe the wind could expose you, consider taking another path.
3. Be ready to break out into a sprint at any moment
Despite the common perception that stalking is a long and methodical process, there are situations when it’s necessary to make as much progress as possible in a short period of time.
That might include running uphill, strolling through coulees, or any combination of the two. If you have to, you can crawl, but if you can cover ground quickly with a quick sprint, be prepared to do so.
4. Practice makes perfect
The antelope can be tough to approach. It’s typical to have to make shots from 200 to 300 yards. You should also keep in mind that an antelope isn’t a particularly sizable target.
Prepare for your antelope hunt by getting plenty of live-fire experience with your rifle, but do it from a variety of hunting positions instead of just from a bench.
Don’t put off preparation for your hunt until the week of. Get started shooting right away so you’re completely at ease with your rifle’s accuracy at distances of up to 300 yards. When the chance to take that fantastic trophy finally presents itself, you want to be ready to seize it with full confidence.
5. Keep close to your PH
When you need to make a quick shot, you won’t want to waste time trying to “catch up” to your PH. Animals are highly attuned to motion, thus it is crucial to know when and how to move. Keep an eye on the PH and make your move when he does.
6. Be mindful of your barrel direction
You will always follow your PH and have a tracker close behind. Keep your rifle pointed in a secure direction at all times, especially when navigating hazardous terrain like thick underbrush and low-hanging branches on the ground.
7. Stay positive if you lose at first
After enough time spent antelope hunting, you’re bound to have a blown stalk. Stay strong and keep your buck in your mind when this occurs. It’s possible you still have a shot.
The antelope has a top speed of more than 55 miles per hour and can go great distances quickly. But once he passes the next hill, you can probably start anew. When an antelope can’t see a threat, it doesn’t exist in its thoughts.
It’s normal to feel a great sense of disappointment after a long, arduous stalk has been blown. It was hard, and maintaining enthusiasm is at times harder. However, keep your resolve and concentration. Finding a mature antelope buck requires patience and persistence, but it is well worth the effort.
Use these points with your next hunt and remember to visit www.hunt24.co.za for more information.
