Safari Report – Reunion Tour with the Boys….
For the past twenty years we have been privileged to host a special group of hunters on a regular basis. These men have become part and parcel of who we are and the journey we have been so fortunate to be on. They have witnessed the growth and changes over the years and have become a part of our family. This year, as they have done on numerous previous occasions, Brett Nelson, Dwight Moser and Jeff Edland joined us once again for an adventure in South Africa. Brett’s nephew, Bryce, was along on his first African hunt as the seasoned hunters shared their wisdom on how to hunt hard and play even harder in the spirit of safari fellowship. As always the journey was highly entertaining and at times somewhat interesting. When Brett and the crew roles into camp you know it’s go time and the fun and games are about to begin…
Brett Nelson
Twenty years ago, I embarked on my first safari. Somebody upstairs was watching over me and led me to John X Safaris for that very first African hunt. I cannot overstate how profoundly that first safari affected the rest of my life. On that first trip I met new lifelong friends in the Moser brothers and Russell Pelan who were also on their first trips. I also became a loyal client of John X Safaris. Over the years there have been many return trips each with its own unique flavor and experiences.
This year I took my nephew Bryce along so he could meet the crew that has become more than friends, they are my family. I am not sure who first penned the words but there is no adventure on earth like your first safari. Reality allows us all only one first safari but this can be remedied by bringing someone along for their first safari and reliving the experience vicariously. Bryce and I had a superb trip in every respect. The East Cape was green and lush and game was in wild abundance. It was like hunting in the Garden of Eden.
To Carl, “King” Edward, and the rest of the crew my sincerest gratitude for all your hard work and effort in making these trips truly magnificent. Two decades of safaris have passed quicker than I could have ever imagined but the memories and the stories are some of my life’s richest moments. Here’s to the next two decades of adventures…
Brett Nelson
Dwight Moser
My 2020 safari was postponed due to COVID-19 and I was sure glad to get it rescheduled with my friends at John X Safaris for this season. This was my first hunt at the new base, Woodlands Safari Estate, and it was amazing to see how every aspect of camp and its surroundings were though out with meticulous planning. As a group we hunted both the south and the north, spending a few days up at Ray’s where lots of good times were had and many great stories were told with legendary status.
Lee made the most of our game hunted and prepared delicious meals coupled with a camaraderie from yesteryear. Woodlands itself is a huge concession and PH, Greg, and tracker, Bless, were able to locate a number of exceptional animals for us to pursue. My Warthog in particular was a highlight as it had been on my bucket list for over twenty years of visiting Africa.
As always, the visits with Rick are a certain highlight as that is where my African hunting career started all those years ago. To fellowship, friends and great hunting – I can’t wait to do it all again next year!
Dwight Moser
Bryce Nelson
This was my first trip to Africa and I certainly hope that it won’t be my last. The hunting was outstanding with challenging hikes and stalks as we looked to achieve a high standard of game hunted. The food and fellowship in the evenings are all part of the many stories and memories I’ll take home with me as I long to return once again. Until next time!
Bryce Nelson
Jeff Edland
This was my 7th hunt with John X Safaris, but my first visit to Woodlands Safari Estate. The trophy quality was absolutely unbelievable and the food was tremendous at every meal. To me the greatest part of any hunt are the friendships made and experiences shared. This year proved to be no different from my previous visits with my friends from Africa, the only difference, I’m no longer merely a friend, but a part of the family.
Jeff Edland
Ps. My mountain hunt for free-ranging Aoudad Sheep was out of this world and something I’ve never experienced in Africa before. The scenery and hunt made for a great setting while closing the distance between us and our sheep from 1400 yards to a mere 91 yards after 4 hours of stalking will go down as an absolute favorite for me!
We are happy to report that all went as planned with the group on their return home to the US. The system proved to be hassle free and with a simple negative PCR Covid-19 test result taken within 72 hours prior to departure from the US/SA we are confident that you too will experience the same scenario on your safari to Africa during 2021.
Contact us today for more information on our hunts and feel free to mail Carl directly on hunting@johnxsafaris.co.za with your specific safari requests or quotes. We look forward to hearing from you and sharing a campfire in Africa.
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