NHSA Newsletter
VOL. 13 (18) - 29-05-2017
MAKE SURE OF ALL PRICES AND FACILITIES BEFORE HUNTS
Dear member,
A few of our members have reported bad experiences in the hunting field this year. These incidents are related to prices of game being changed when it comes to payment – prices of accommodation quoted incorrectly, and sudden increases in guiding and slaughtering fees - also absolute inadequate slaughtering facilities and inadequately trained hunting guides.
As a hunting association we cannot just send out Emails to members and warn them against booking hunts with this or that game farmer, as we must give the farmer a chance to defend against the poor service our members report. We just don't have the capacity to become embroiled in disputes of this nature (apart from not being prepared to become liable for statements we might make regarding a specific farm's hunting capacity and capabilities).
We therefore advise that members MUST ascertain themselves of the following before booking a hunt on a specific game farm (ranch) and before departing for the specific hunting trip.
Make sure the price list for accommodation you received, describes the accommodation and quotes the 2017 prices for accommodation
Make sure that the price list for game is the 2017 price list - also be sure what trophy length of horns of different animals you might hunt, are. At NHSA, we are comfortable when game farmers charge for trophies starting at the Rowland Ward minimum specifications for trophy take up in their species trophy guide. Watch out for any other measurements for trophies.
Make sure the price list includes cost for hunting vehicles and for guides and slaughtering facilities
Make sure the slaughtering facilities are adequate before you make the booking - that includes cooling facilities
Make sure the people who slaughter on the farm know what they do and have the necessary training - and stand by when they slaughetr your animal (don't complain afterwards because you did not do your homework).
Be aware of the fact that so-called hunting guides on farms more often than not, have no hunting experience or tracking experience, and are actually only walking with you to be the eyes and ears of the farmer - they are thus not specifically trained for hunting (there is nothing wrong with that - but make sure of their capabilities before you go on a hunt with them).
Be sure to know the boundaries of the farm you hunt on (and of the inside camp fences), and be sure where you may and may not hunt - also what you may and may not hunt.
Don't get caught up in skulduggery after your hunt - be sure that what you will pay for, is what you will get before you go on your hunt.
Enjoy every moment of all your hunts !!
Regards
Herman Els
This Newsletter sent to all members as Email on 29 May 2017.