Hunting

Hound Hunts

John X Safaris was one of the very first Safari Outfits to start hunting with hounds during the late 1980’s. Today, over forty years later, we still maintain the same traditions.

For those hunters seeking the more elusive Blue Duiker, Lynx/Caracal or Bushpig, can be assured of good opportunities with great success rates when hunting our southern concessions with hounds.

The Blue Duiker is a real specialized collector's trophy forming part of the Tiny 10. Hunts are conducted by finding suitable paths in the dense undergrowth of our coastal forests while moving the Duiker’s around by Jack Russells and Fox Terriers. Often hunters will only catch mere glimpses of these tiny masters of the forest with Terriers 20 or 30 yards behind, in hot pursuit. It’s an exhilarating experience and one which will test even the best shotgunners among us.

For the cat hunters we offer Lynx/Caracal hunting with hounds. It is one of the most exciting hunts to be involved in. Packs usually number anywhere from 12 to 18 hounds and consist of Running Walkers, Blue Ticks, Fox Hounds, and a host of locally bred dogs.

Packs are put out before sunrise, with houndsman listening for any warning signs of Caracal in the area. Monkeys and Bushbuck alerting barks are often a Caracal's only give away. Once the lead dog has found a hot scent the hunt is on, with Caracals often covering several kilometers and hours before treeing.

For the fanatical pig hunters, we offer Bushpig hunting with hounds from our southern concessions. For many it is seen as a religion, with hounds, hunters and Bushpigs often gaining legendary status. For any hunter who enjoys pig hunting, this hunt will be a must. Be warned that this is a very physical and mentally demanding hunt. Most houndsman are 3rd or 4th generation pig hunters and enjoy the challenge in the run once the pigs have exited from their nest. Keeping up with these hard men over several kilometers, in the forest through the dense undergrowth and then making a telling shot is one of the most rewarding feelings a hunter could experience and one that is highly recommended.

All hunts offered with dogs are highly specialized and must always be booked well in advance to ensure availability and maximum opportunity for success.

Hound Hunts FAQ's

1What animals can be hunted with hounds at John X Safaris?

Hunters can pursue Blue Duiker, Lynx/Caracal, and Bushpig with hounds in the coastal forests of South Africa’s Eastern Cape. Each species offers a unique challenge: Blue Duiker for collectors of the “Tiny 10,” Caracal for cat hunters, and Bushpig for those who enjoy physically demanding and adrenaline-filled hunts.

2How successful are hound hunts in South Africa?

Hound hunts at John X Safaris boast a near 100% success rate thanks to highly trained packs of dogs and decades of expertise. Hunts are carefully planned in southern concessions with optimal terrain for tracking and flushing game.

3What types of hounds are used during these hunts?

The packs typically consist of 12 to 18 hounds, including Running Walkers, Blue Ticks, Fox Hounds, and other locally bred dogs. Jack Russells and Fox Terriers are also used, especially when pursuing the elusive Blue Duiker in dense undergrowth.

4What makes hunting the Blue Duiker so challenging?

The Blue Duiker is one of the smallest antelope and a prized collector’s trophy in the Tiny 10. Found in dense coastal forests, hunters often catch only glimpses of them as they dart ahead of the terriers. This makes the hunt fast-paced and thrilling, testing even the best shotgunners.

5How does a Caracal hound hunt work?

Caracal hunting with hounds begins before sunrise, with houndsmen listening for signs of Caracal movement. Once a scent is picked up, the chase can cover several kilometers and last hours before the Caracal is treed. The excitement and teamwork of hounds, houndsmen, and hunters make this one of the most exhilarating hunts available.

6What should hunters expect from a Bushpig hound hunt?

Bushpig hunts are physically and mentally demanding, often described as a “religion” among dedicated pig hunters. Packs of specialized hounds pursue the pigs across dense forest and rough terrain until hunters get a close shot. Because Bushpigs are aggressive and highly respected, taking one over hounds is considered a major accomplishment.

7How should hunters prepare for a hound hunt?

Hound hunts are highly specialized and must be booked well in advance to ensure availability. Hunters should be prepared for long hours on foot, challenging terrain, and fast-paced shooting opportunities. Good fitness and stamina will enhance the experience and success of the hunt.