That is some cray Taxi work.

 

 

 

 

 

Mike trained at Conroe Taxidermy, which some consider to be the top shop in America for African game: http://www.conroetaxidermy.com.

Of course, Mike charges a whole lot less for the same work.  He's done deer, turkey, hogs, javelina, coyotes and ducks for me.

 

 

 

 

 

http://forums.bowsite.com/TF/bgforums/thread.cfm?threadid=392958&forum=18   

 

 

 

I actually had the rump of a nice Bushbuck ram in my crosshairs, but his head wasn't visible.  By the time I could judge him, he hauled ass.  My PH cussed non-stop for the next hour.  We hunted near a nice sized pond near sundown.  Saw lots of Reedbucks, but not another Bushbuck.  Looking for 16" or better.

Thanks for the tip on the taxidermists.  My outfitter specifically recommended Highveld because they seem to be faster at the permitting process to get the skins and skulls out of the country faster than most.

I'll check out the other operations as well.

 

Your choice of caliber and bullet is good to go. I have never hunted eland, simply because it is too much meat for my needs.

 

Bushbuck are very shy animals and can pose a challenging hunt. I have been fortunate enough to live in bushbuck country and have shot / hunted quite a few over the years.

 

I have long ago stopped doing trophy mounts, so I cannot recommend anyone. Normally a good outfitter will have the right taxidermist lined up for you.

The money is certainly an issue.  Hunting in Africa is costly, and prices go up every year.  I wish discussions about the cost of hunting packages were more frank and transparent, so I'd have an idea of whether or not I'm getting a good deal.  When you first price a trip over there, it's hard to wrap your head around what exactly your total expenditures will be.  

For the uninitiated, here is a general idea of items you'll pay for (if you're having your taxidermy done here in the states):

Airfare

Postage to Mail Your Rifle Permit Application

Ammo

Travel Insurance

Daily Rate for Hunting (+ 14% VAT tax)

Trophy Fees

Gratuities

Gifts/Souvenirs

Dipping & Packaging (skulls and capes)

Tanning (backskins for area rugs, pillows, etc.)

Shipping

Importer

Taxidermy

Again, these costs are spread out over a two year period.

Rancid and I used Highveld Taxidermy in Johannesburg to dip and package our trophies last year.  They are almost ready to ship, but I won't see them before having to make a decision about who to use this time.  Anyone used a great shop in Johannesburg?  Any taxidermists to steer clear of there?

 

.375 or 9.3. Both work very well.

Here's the thread that discussed our last trip:  http://opticstalk.com/first-african-safari_topic30139.html?KW=

Well, I leave in a week for my second trip.  Same guide.  Same truck.  Unfortunately... no Rancid.  I'll be joined by my dad, and I'm excited to be with him when he experiences his first African safari.

I'm targeting three species: 

1. Sable Antelope

2. Cape Eland

3. Bushbuck

Any last minute advice on hunting these three particular species in RSA?  I feel pretty comfortable with judging trophy quality and shot placement, but I was wondering if anyone had any stories to tell and experiences to share.  I'd rather learn now than after my bullet leaves the rifle!

FYI, my rig is a Sako 85 in 375 H&H wearing a Leica ER scope.  Barnes TSX in 300 grains.

Lots of mulies numbers wise, but nothing I would consider "good" as far as a 150 plus mulie bucks. The biggest buck I saw up there was a small 2 point. LOTS of does.

 

 

 

Yeah and you'll need Penicllin afterwards too!!!!