“The duties of a Professional Hunter on safari are essentially the same as those of a ship’s captain and with the same responsibilities. He’s everything from the social director to the ship’s surgeon, if needed. He’s the author of the strategy of the hunting plan, but also the tactician as to make each stalk. He keeps the peace among the staff, oversees the food and drink, translates and interprets, sees that the trophies are properly handled and is shooting coach, gunsmith, stand-up comedian and diplomat any time he is called on to be so.” – Peter Hathaway Capstick
Peter H. Capstick, the renowned American hunter and author, truly captured the essence of the profession in his book, Safari: The Last Adventure. The role of a Professional Hunting Guide is undeniably intricate, and the dynamic between a hunting client and a PH adds another layer of complexity. When a client and a PH share similar traits—be it personality, hunting approach, humour, or mutual respect for wildlife—a deep and lasting friendship often blossoms. During their initial outing together, a seasoned PH pays close attention to two key aspects: how the client manages their rifle and their overall physical fitness. These observations will shape the hunting experience in the days that follow. Each hunting trip is tailored to the client’s preferences, taking into account their desired trophy animals, time constraints, available hunting grounds, and the type of hunt they seek. It is crucial for the PH to uphold every agreement made with the client regarding the animals to be pursued, all while maintaining a commitment to honesty, integrity, and ethical practices. This necessitates a thorough understanding of the hunting regulations specific to the region where the hunt occurs.
A skilled PH significantly enhances the hunting experience for clients. By explaining how trophy hunting affects the area’s genetic diversity or sharing fascinating details about the local trees, insects, plants, and birds, the PH keeps clients engaged during their time in the bush. Clients often reciprocate by sharing their own knowledge about the wildlife and plants from their home countries, leading to enriching discussions that foster a deeper connection between the client and the PH. This is particularly valuable when working with a new client, as it helps build rapport. It’s crucial to discuss the client’s hunting goals and expectations, including the topic of backup shots. There may be instances when the PH needs to take a shot, regardless of the client’s preferences, if it becomes necessary to protect the client’s safety, especially during dangerous game hunts. The PH has a legal obligation to ensure the client’s well-being, making it essential to establish a mutual understanding that the PH will act decisively in emergencies. This agreement should be clearly outlined in the hunt indemnity document.
Hunting safaris to Africa have increasingly become a family-oriented experience in recent years, with a rising number of couples participating and even bringing their children along for the adventure. This trend has contributed to safaris that are frequently extended to include a variety of non-hunting activities such as fishing, wine tours, photographic safaris, historical tours and even scuba diving. The expansion of activities significantly adds to the role of the PH, who actively participates in these adventures alongside the clients, while still guiding them to ensure that they have the best possible experience. This highlights the importance for you as clients to conduct thorough research so that you may choose a reputable hunting outfitter as you will be relying on them throughout your entire trip. Safaris to Africa should be an exhilarating and enlightening journey, and when approached correctly, it can create lasting memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.
