I had always dreamed of hunting an old Kudu bull in the rugged KwaZulu-Natal bushveld. It began in early 2021 during the annual rut. I went on a couple of trips when I had breaks from school during 2021 and throughout 2022, however I never connected. Each time I hunted hard and learnt valuable lessons from my father (Scruff) and Patches (PH and tracker). It’s important to note that I practiced shooting at far distances with my father in preparation for this hunt. In August 2022, I had another opportunity. My father, grandfather, trackers, Robbie and Sbu, and I as well as our two Fox terriers, set off to hunt in the hills of Natal near Weenen. At the beginning of the trip, a cold front passed through the area, and it rained for two days straight, forcing us to remain in camp. The next day the rain finally disappeared, and the sun came out. So, we set out into the mountains that afternoon, presuming that the game would want to come out of the bush to warm up in the sun. We were moving through a valley, constantly glassing the slopes around us, until I spotted a herd of 9 kudu bulls feeding on a bushy slope to our left, while enjoying the late afternoon sun. We identified two fully mature bulls within the herd, so we had to begin the stalk to close the distance for a suitable shot opportunity. We hurried closer using the cover provided by a shallow draw and I lay down to rest my rifle on a mound for a steady shot. Of the two mature bulls, there was one with unbeatable character, with a broken tip and heavy horns which got my attention. The bull was 336 yards away, and there was no way of getting any closer. As I tried to steady myself for the shot the bull walked into a slight thicket at the crest of the hill. I waited with anticipation, feeling the full force of buck fever. As the bull stepped out of the bush and stood broadside, I rushed and shot just in front of the bull. He took a few steps forward and luckily stopped with confusion, presenting a second broadside shot. Knowing I didn’t have much time, I quickly composed myself and squeezed the trigger of my 7mm rem mag. The 150 gr Barnes tsx bullet connected perfectly into the shoulder. The bull lifted his leg uncomfortably and ran to the right. He went 70 yards and fell over. I erupted with excitement and relief as I hurried up the hill to admire the bull. He was absolutely beautiful, and it was a dream come true. I was more than grateful to have hunted such an animal, and I have the utmost respect for it. He had a large dark body and an awesome set of horns, however what made me most excited was the beautiful and healthy meat that my family and I could enjoy for a long time. Something that made this hunt even more special to me was the fact that I was able to share this experience with my grandfather Coenraad. The next morning, I prepared the liver of the Kudu for breakfast, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. This was an experience that I will never forget.
Caleb Vermaak
