Blesbuck Hunting

The blesbuck is a medium-sized antelope endemic to South Africa, making it one of the few truly South African species. With its striking white facial blaze and reddish-brown coat, it's become one of the most popular plains game trophies for visiting hunters.

Physically, rams and ewes are remarkably similar, with males reaching up to 85 kg (185 lbs). Both sexes carry horns that are ringed almost to the tip, though female horns are slightly more slender. The species has a characteristic sloping back with shoulders higher than hindquarters.

Blesbuck are exclusive grazers, preferring short grasses under 15 cm. They particularly favor fresh green growth appearing after veld burns or rain, grazing grasses down to just 0.5 cm above ground level.

Color Variants

Beyond the common blesbuck, breeding programs have produced several color variants, each with different trophy fees:

• Common Blesbuck - Classic reddish-brown with white blaze
• White Blesbuck - Pure white coat, straw-colored horns
• Copper Blesbuck - Rich copper coloration
• Yellow/Golden Blesbuck - Pale yellowish flanks and rump
• Painted Blesbuck - Multi-colored pattern
• Saddle-backed Blesbuck - Distinctive back marking

Behavior Patterns

Blesbuck are diurnal and most active during cooler morning and evening hours. They form small herds and are often found standing alert on open plains. Unlike many antelope calves that hide, blesbuck calves stay with their mothers from birth.

South Africa

Blesbuck can be hunted year-round on registered game ranches holding exemption permits. This makes them available whenever you plan your African safari.

Namibia

Trophy season runs from February 1 to November 30. Blesbuck were introduced to Namibia and are found on private game ranches.

Best Hunting Regions

• Free State: Traditional blesbuck heartland with excellent populations
• Eastern Cape: Popular safari destination with good numbers
• Mpumalanga: Mixed bushveld and grassland hunting
• Northern Cape: Open Karoo plains hunting
• Limpopo: Combined with other plains game species

Optimal Timing

The rut occurs in April-May when rams are most active and territorial. However, excellent hunting is available year-round. The cooler months (May-August) offer comfortable hunting conditions and blesbuck are more active throughout the day.

Spot and Stalk

The primary method for hunting blesbuck. Glass open grasslands during early morning or late evening when animals are most active. Use terrain features, ant hills, and sparse vegetation for cover during the stalk.

• Approach from downwind - blesbuck have excellent senses
• Use natural terrain features for concealment
• Be patient - they often stand and look before fleeing
• Stalks under 100m are achievable in suitable terrain

Ambush/Blind Hunting

Set up near water sources or known feeding areas. Blesbuck are creatures of habit and return to favored grazing spots regularly. This method works well for bow hunters.

Walk and Stalk

Walk slowly through likely habitat, using PH to spot animals before being detected. This active method covers more ground and can produce encounters at various ranges.

Judging Trophy Quality

Look for heavy horns with good length extending well above the ears. Trophy rams have horns that curve outward and then back in with prominent ridging. A horn length of 14"+ indicates a good trophy, while 16½"+ qualifies for Rowland Ward.

• Horns should extend clearly above ear tips
• Look for heavy bases with prominent ridging
• Good curve and hook at the tips
• Dark, polished horn color indicates maturity

Rifles & Calibers

Blesbuck are not heavily built and don't require heavy calibers. A favorite deer rifle in medium calibers works perfectly.

Optics

Quality optics are essential for open plains hunting where long shots are common.

• Riflescope: 3-9x40 or 4-12x50 variable power
• Binoculars: 8x42 or 10x42 for glassing open terrain
• Rangefinder: Essential for judging distance on open plains

Bow Hunting

Free-range bow hunting for blesbuck is challenging due to their open habitat. Blind hunting near water or feeding areas offers the best opportunity.

• Minimum 50 lb draw weight recommended
• SCI Bow Minimum: 35"
• Fixed or mechanical broadheads both effective
• Maximum ethical range: 40 yards from blind

Field Gear

• Shooting sticks or bipod for steady shots
• Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, brown)
• Comfortable walking boots for stalking
• Hat and sunglasses for glare protection
• Sunscreen - open plains offer little shade

Physical Preparation

Blesbuck hunting is generally not physically demanding compared to mountain species. However, basic fitness improves your hunting experience.

• Walking 3-5 miles on flat terrain typical
• Practice shooting from sticks at various ranges
• Be prepared for kneeling or sitting shots
• Altitude is minimal - most hunting at 4,000-6,000 feet

Marksmanship

Open plains hunting often means longer shots. Practice is essential.

Trophy Considerations

Decide before your hunt what trophy quality you're seeking and communicate with your PH.

Documentation & Permits

• Valid passport with 6+ months validity
• Rifle permit application through outfitter
• CITES not required (not a protected species)
• Export permits arranged by outfitter
• Hunting license included in safari package

Trophy Handling

Blesbuck make excellent shoulder mounts or skull mounts. The distinctive facial blaze displays beautifully. Discuss trophy preparation with your outfitter before the hunt - most offer skinning and dipping services.