Hi Guys, I'm in the early stages of looking at a Cape Buffalo hunt in the Selous area L1 the first week of July 06. What conditions/terrain are prevelent? I understand the grass is taller, as none of it has been burned off that early. What is the quality and abundance of Buffalo, as that is my primary animal. I hunted the Dande in Zimbabwe in 04 and had a very enjoyable hunt. But I'm looking for that bigger Buff. I would appreciate your imput. Thanks George

George:

I am no expert, but I have hunted the Selous in July (last week at that). It is no picnick. I can't imagine what the first week would be like.

I think if you look at he facts, hunting in the Selous in July is pretty risky. My PH this year drew a goose egg; i know the guy who went in after me in July 01 also drew a blank.

if you want a big buff, go to Masailand. The Selous may produce some big buffalo, but it also produces some of the smallest.

AZ Writer thanks for your reply, I kind of suspected the timing might be off by a month or two. Cheers George

Gorge,
what is a "bigger buff" for you?

If the outfitter/agent you are dealing with has other areas in Tz and you are not flexible with dates, then see if they have concessions around Rungwa or Western Tanzania for that time.

Also, if you can, book for 10 or 12 days instead of 7.

good luck!

Mr. Wood,

It think it depends on the area as to which time of the year you hunt.

I have posted these photos before, these are some Selous Buff we took this year. The smallest one is 40 1/2 ", taken in Sept. 2005. Largest 42 1/4" taken the end of July 2005. Masailand does have good Buffalo, better than these resident Buff, you will have to judge.












Best,
Phil
P.H. - Tanzania

George

I would stay away from L1 in July for buffalo. August would be the absolute earliest I would go for buffalo in that block.

George,

Phil maybe right about the blocks he hunts but we have a number of Selous blocks and areas adjacent to the Selous. We don't book anything there until August and later is better.

You mentioned the first week in July. Early July is primetime in Masaiand with no grass issues. Do a search for Lobo and Lokisale to see the buffalo that have come from our concessions there this year.

Regards,

Mark

George:

Here is another unsolicited piece of advice. I think if you hunt with a PH who specializes in big buffalo you are better off. After you chose a company, try and identify your PH. Make sure he has hunted your area before. Big buffalo are not behind every bush anywhere - you have to know where they are. Also, Tanz does offer one the ability to shoot two buff; that way, if you or your PH makes a mistake, you can shoot another. On a 21 day license you can shoot 3. I also think if you want a really big buffalo you should concentrate on that animal to the exclusion of everything else.

George;
I returned from L1 with PH Keith Hakes ( early Sept ). 2 representative buffs but a great time ! Who's the outfitter your considering ?

Bob

I would like to thank all of you who took the time to reply. It sure gives me pause to consider all the options. I will probably go to the S.C.I. Show in Reno and get totaly confused. The july date is pretty much a must as my Fiance has to return to teaching Aug 1. Cheers George