The recent media storm following the killing of Cecil the lion by American dentist Walter Palmer has brought renewed focus on trophy hunting in Africa and its impact on game populations. The debate has prompted some to call for a ban on the practice, but is such a move really the answer? The fact is that Africa still allows bow hunting for a number of species. And with the right outfitter and guide, a bow hunt in africa can be an exciting and rewarding experience.

Many of the most sought after African plains game animals can be taken with a bow and arrow including impala, warthog, blesbuck, gemsbok, kudu, waterbuck, red hartebeest, ostrich, wildebeest and cape buffalo. These are hunted in ground blinds or from vehicle driven stalking expeditions with the bow hunter pursuing his target within shooting range, and often at very close range. Bow hunters have an advantage over rifle hunters in that their arrows can be shot at an angle which increases the chances of a clean kill and less chance of wounded animals that may require lengthy tracking procedures to recover.

A bow hunter must be very familiar with his or her equipment and have spent a great deal of time practicing. This is important because a poorly placed shot can result in a day of hunting for a wounded animal and could possibly mean that the bow hunter will have to abandon his or her attempt at taking a trophy animal.

It is also a good idea for the bow hunter to have an accurate and durable compound bow with a draw weight of between 60 and 70 pounds. This is the ideal bow for most African animals and provides a high degree of success, particularly when coupled with top quality mechanical or fixed blade broad heads that can penetrate the tough hides and bone of African animals.

Bow hunters should bring plenty of arrows in the 450 grain range and have a bow string that matches his or her equipment. It is also a good idea to carry a bow quiver that holds at least six arrows. Running out of arrows at the moment of the shot can be very frustrating.

In addition to a good bow and arrow setup, a bow hunter should be prepared for the different hunting conditions in South Africa and Africa in general. This includes dressing appropriately, being aware of prevailing weather conditions and being familiar with the behavior and habits of specific game species.

The best time for a bow hunt in Africa can depend on the particular region visited and the individual game species being targeted, but in general the winter months from late May to early September are considered ideal. This is because during this time water sources become limited and animal concentrations around waterholes will be at their highest, making the hunt much more productive. This period also coincides with the mating or rut of certain game species which makes them easier to spot and pursue.