I just returned from Zimbabwe in pursuit of Cape buffalo where we’d walk a few miles on fairly even ground, but it was so hot that I didn’t want to take one more step (around 110°).
It was then that I decided that I didn’t want to repeat this walk again and I had already come so far and that I couldn’t turn back now even though we were thirsty and baking in the sun for 3 hours. That’s when I decided in my mind not to quit –let’s get this over with! And if we’re successful due to our perseverance –great! If not, when we finally have success, we will deserve it.
Hunts cost a lot of money, but just because you pay the big bucks doesn’t mean that the conditions will be perfect; outside of physically preparing you need to be mentally prepared. Imagine yourself stuck in an igloo in the arctic being ignored by the Inuit’s. Maybe the mosquitoes are crawling into every orifice, or you’re sopping wet from head to toe and can’t dry off. These are examples of things that happen which prompts many hunters to change their flights and go home only to find out that the weather cleared and everyone in camp shot 380 class bulls!
Attitude is everything; if all you’re doing is complaining, just ask yourself “If I was the guide, would I want to work hard for you?” Even so, the guide wants success (because it looks good on his resume) and a tip, but if you have a bad attitude, it permeates with everyone around you and creates a horrible environment. Stay positive!
If you question your ability to hang, then do one of two things, prepare yourself mentally and physically, or don’t go.
I want to hear your weenie-hunter stories; tell me of the friend who gave up too soon!
