South Africa Practice and Preparation
South Africa Practice and Preparation
By Keith Denoncourt
When I first went over to South Africa I was beyond nervous. I am true country boy at heart, and this type of travel hunting adventure is something that I have only dreamt about. Needless to say nervous with excitement does not quite describe it. It is with no hesitation that I reached out to a few Professional Outdoor Media Communicators and asked for their advice. The best advice came from Brad Fenson who said “Do not forget to breathe…”. The reality is that everything in South Africa is so new that your mind is just swirling with new sights, new smells, new colors, people and culture that within a mere blink of an eye you will be back home. The other best advice came from Kevin McNeil with Canadian Wildlife Adventures where he advised “….make sure that I take lots of pictures….”. Even now I am disbelief on how fast my last trip went.
Perfect practice, with perfect preparation, is a critical link to the overall success of any adventure.
Before I book my adventure, I check with my personal doctor, check my health, and arrange the appropriate travel medical requirements. I eagerly checked my passport, and booked my flight. Now the preparation works for myself truly begins. I need to work at being physically fit to be able to enjoy this adventure. This is no small task for myself. I walked daily several kms just breaking in the boots that I was using for the trip. It is horrid when your footwear give out, or if they are not suited for your adventure.
As this was only my second adventure over there, I am not yet a seasoned South African traveler. I left my personal firearms at home both times. Although Boris highly recommends that you bring your own, and will assist you in bringing it over there, for now I was just getting used to the airport processes. Basso Safaris does have a .308 Savage and a .375 HH that they can arrange for you. It is however my intention on my next trip year in 2026 that my .300 Tikka will accompany me. For my first trip, I cross trained repeatedly weeks prior with everything from a 375 HH to a .22 . I focused on the style of shot that I will most likely face. I went to my local gun range several times before my trip. For myself, I knew that I will be shooting a .308 rifle from shooting sticks, or a rest, after a short stalk. The approach is what also I worked on. I walked about 10 steps, did a quick stick set up, then sent a round down range at 100 m. This was repeated several times. I was trying to mimic an increased heart rate while focusing on accuracy. For the record, I have a LOT to learn about precision firearm training. I am very eager to attend the “Bobby Hart” long distance training school very soon, and will update my approach when I learn more from a professional. I just know what type of practice and preparation works for me now, and am very eagerly looking to learn more. The time that you spend practicing at home before your departure will be an asset when you arrive.
When I arrived at the Basso Safaris Lodge I was very glad to refocus my intentions at the gun range. After a very long trip getting my body used to moving and shooting again is a must. After verify that my shots were accurate, now was the time to refocus my shot placement. African animals have a slightly different kill zone. Refocusing my intentions on learning and applying the accuracy of my shot placement now is my main goal.
The entire Team from Basso Safaris truly sets the standard of Dedication, Perseverance, Hospitality and Professionalism. They truly make your South African dreams come true ! If you are interested in any adventure or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to check out www.bassosafaris.com or give me an personal email at kadenoncourt@gmail.com .
Thank you for respecting wildlife and for supporting a Non Profit Conservation group.
- Keith
Consult your personal doctor for travel requirements and arrange your passport and book your flights at your earliest convenience.
Make sure that your boots are suited to your adventure and that they are well broken in prior to the start of your trip.
It is not just shooting from a stationary position that needs to be practiced, it is the small stalk approach and set up that needs to be practiced as well.
Bench shooting, while wearing your expected gear, is one of the best ways of practicing your shot placements.
Practicing at the Lodge and getting all of your muscle kinks out is a necessity. Continual practice daily and equipment checks is highly recommended.
Boris will have you practice at the gun range as well to confirm your shot placement.
Shot placement is substantially different on South African animals. They are incredibly tough, so intentional protocols are in place to help you place the most respectful harvesting shot.
Boris has been Professional Hunter for over 25 years. Working with him, and his Team, is a truly wonderful experience. The entire Basso Safari team take Dedication, Perseverance, Hospitality, and Professionalism to a whole new level. I am proud to call him my friend!
For any information about booking an adventure never hesitate to give me a personal email at kadenoncourt@gmail.com or check out the adventures at www.bassosafaris.com .
