Wingshooting in South Africa
Wingshooting in South Africa – Bird Shooting Safaris with Safari Bound
Experience South Africa’s Premier Bird Hunting Adventure
South Africa is one of the world’s finest destinations for wingshooting — offering an incredible variety of game-bird species, varied habitats (farmlands, wetlands, bushveld, dams), and excellent seasons. At Safari Bound Southern Africa we combine deep local knowledge, top hunting concessions and comfortable lodges to deliver the full wingshooting experience.
Whether you’re after high-volume dove and pigeon shoots over crops, duck and goose hunting over dams, or classic upland bird hunts with pointing dogs, we provide it all — safely, legally, and with top customer care.
📧 todd@safariboundsa.co.za
📱 Call/WhatsApp: +27 82 419 7486
Experience South Africa’s Premier Bird Hunting Adventure
South Africa is one of the world’s finest destinations for wingshooting — offering an incredible variety of game-bird species, varied habitats (farmlands, wetlands, bushveld, dams), and excellent seasons. At Safari Bound Southern Africa we combine deep local knowledge, top hunting concessions and comfortable lodges to deliver the full wingshooting experience.
Whether you’re after high-volume dove and pigeon shoots over crops, duck and goose hunting over dams, or classic upland bird hunts with pointing dogs, we provide it all — safely, legally, and with top customer care.
📧 todd@safariboundsa.co.za
📱 Call/WhatsApp: +27 82 419 7486
What Makes SA Wingshooting Special
- Diverse species: Geese, ducks, waterfowl, doves/pigeons, guineafowl, francolin, quail, sand-grouse and more.
- Multiple hunting styles: You can enjoy flight shooting over fields, decoy & blind waterfowl shoots on dams and pans, or walk-up and driven upland hunts — with dogs or beaters.
- Flexible seasons: Depending on species and province, seasons vary — meaning you have multiple opportunities throughout the year.
- Spectacular variety in one trip: It’s possible in a single safari to combine waterfowl, upland, and pigeon/dove shooting — giving you a full “bird-hunting holiday” experience.
How Safari Bound Does It
Carefully selected concessions and farmland across key provinces (depending on season) to maximize game-bird availability.
Experienced guides who know the behaviour, flight paths, and best hunting methods of each species.
Comfortable accommodation and full safari support (guide, transport, meals, permits, safety).
Option to tailor trips: from short dove/pigeon “high-volume” days to multi-day mixed wingshooting trips.
Typical Itinerary (Sample)
| Day | Morning | Afternoon / Evening |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival, briefing, lodge check-in | Light walk / scouting for next day |
| 2 | Dove / pigeon shoot over crop fields (sunflower / maize) | Return to lodge — dinner & recount shots |
| 3 | Waterfowl (duck/goose) — decoy or flight-line over dam | Relax, social dinner, optional guide talk |
| 4 | Upland bird hunt (guineafowl, francolin) — over dogs or driven | Packing, shoot log, optional local activity |
| 5 | Mixed shoot (dove + upland) or transfer / departure | Final meal, departure / onward safari |
(Exact schedule depends on season, quota, and bird availability.)
Pigeon and Dove Hunting
South Africa boasts some of the most thrilling wingshooting experiences globally. Our dove and pigeon hunts are no exception, offering fast-paced action over harvested fields.
Waterfowl Hunting
Early-morning hunts over wetlands, dams, and rivers provide opportunities to shoot Egyptian geese, Spur-winged geese, and various duck species.
Upland Bird Hunting
Engage in exciting upland bird hunts in grassland or bushveld terrains. Wild game birds flush quickly and fly low and fast, often in coveys, presenting a challenging and rewarding experience.
Pigeon and Dove Hunting
South Africa boasts some of the most thrilling wingshooting experiences globally. Our dove and pigeon hunts are no exception, offering fast-paced action over harvested fields.
Waterfowl Hunting
Early-morning hunts over wetlands, dams, and rivers provide opportunities to shoot Egyptian geese, Spur-winged geese, and various duck species.
Upland Bird Hunting
Engage in exciting upland bird hunts in grassland or bushveld terrains. Wild game birds flush quickly and fly low and fast, often in coveys, presenting a challenging and rewarding experience.
Wingshooting Concessions
Sasolburg Pigeon and Dove Area
Located in the northern Free State Province, Sasolburg offers diverse bird-hunting terrain, including farmland, grassland, and riverine wetlands. Its proximity to Gauteng makes it an attractive base for weekend or short-stay hunting trips.
Typical Quarry: Rock pigeons and doves in stubble and sunflower fields; guinea fowl, spurfowl, and Orange River francolin in upland grasslands; and seasonal ducks, Egyptian geese, and spur-winged geese along the Vaal River and wetland edges.
Hunting Styles: Driven pigeon/dove shoots over harvested fields, walked-up upland hunts with pointers or retrievers, and waterfowl hunts from decoys or blinds near rivers and dams.
Season & Peak Periods: Pigeon/dove season peaks after crop harvests, typically from late summer to early autumn.
Tweespruit Waterfowl Area
Situated in the Free State, Tweespruit is renowned for its high-volume pigeon and dove shooting. The area features expansive crop fields and wetlands, attracting large flocks of birds.
Typical Quarry: Rock pigeons and doves, Orange River/Swainson’s francolin, guinea fowl, partridge/quail, and seasonal waterfowl such as ducks, Egyptian geese, and spur-winged geese.
Hunting Styles: High-volume pigeon/dove shoots over vast crop fields, waterfowl hunts from blinds or over decoys in wetland areas.
Season & Peak Periods: Peak shooting seasons align with crop harvesting periods, offering optimal conditions for high-volume shooting.
Abrahamshof Mixed Bag Area
Abrahamshof offers a mix of farmland and bushveld, providing diverse hunting opportunities. The area is known for its variety of bird species and scenic landscapes.
Typical Quarry: Rock pigeons and doves feeding over maize and sunflower fields; guinea fowl and Swainson’s francolin in bushveld edges and grassland; and seasonal ducks and geese where wetlands exist nearby.
Hunting Styles: Mixed bag hunts combining pigeon/dove shooting, upland bird hunting, and waterfowl hunts.
Season & Peak Periods: The season runs from May to August, with peak periods aligning with crop harvesting and bird migration patterns.
Settlers Upland Bird Hunting Area
Located in Limpopo’s farming country, Settlers offers energetic and rewarding upland bird hunting. The area features a mix of agricultural fields and natural habitats.
Typical Quarry: Rock pigeons, doves, Swainson’s francolin, spurfowl, guinea fowl, and (in suitable areas) ducks, Egyptian geese, and spur-winged geese.
Hunting Styles: Walked-up upland hunts with trained dogs, driven shoots over harvested fields, and waterfowl hunts in wetland areas.
Season & Peak Periods: The hunting season runs from May to August, with peak activity during the cooler months.
Bird Hunting with Safari Bound Southern Africa
Upland Wing Shooting in SA
Experience the excitement and tradition of world-class upland bird hunting with Safari Bound Southern Africa. Our guided wing shooting safaris offer a classic walk-up shoot over expertly trained dogs — primarily German Shorthaired Pointers, renowned for their precision in both pointing and retrieving.
In the heart of South Africa’s Free State and Limpopo Provinces, hunters can expect to encounter Partridge and Spurfowl in coveys ranging from five to twenty birds. These birds hold tight for the dogs, bursting from cover either in singles or as a full flush — providing fast-paced, exciting shooting. The terrain is generally flat and comfortable for walking, making it ideal for hunters of all fitness levels.
Enjoy thrilling wild bird shooting in vast, privately owned concessions spanning thousands of acres — an exclusive experience shared with like-minded sportsmen and our dedicated hunting team.
Safari Duration
A typical upland bird safari runs for 2 to 3 days, though guests often choose to combine their shoot with one of Safari Bound’s exceptional big game hunting or photographic safari experiences for the ultimate African adventure.
What to Bring & Wear
Our bird hunting season runs from May to August, during South Africa’s cool, dry winter months. Mornings and evenings can be cold, so layered clothing is essential.
We recommend:
- Waterproof ankle boots
- Warm lightweight layers
- Fleece, beanie, and gloves
- A warm jacket
- A wide-brimmed hat or cap
- Ear protection and a shooting vest
- Comfort and practicality are key to a successful and enjoyable hunt.
A Typical Day in the Field
Your day begins before sunrise with a light breakfast and coffee before departing for the morning shoot. Once in the field, the action starts early and continues until midday when we pause for a traditional South African brunch served outdoors.
During the warmest part of the day, we rest and recharge before heading out again for the afternoon shoot, which continues until sunset. As the day draws to a close, we gather for photos of the day’s bag and enjoy a well-deserved sundowner before returning to the lodge.
Dinner is served around 7:30 p.m., featuring delicious South African cuisine. After dinner, stories and laughter are shared around the fire — the perfect way to end a day in the field.
Guns & Ammunition
We recommend 12 or 20 gauge over/under shotguns for upland bird hunting.
Semi-automatic shotguns are not permitted.
We provide suitable ammunition — No. 5 shot — which has proven ideal for our field conditions and bird species.
Ethics & Conservation
At Safari Bound Southern Africa, ethical hunting and conservation are at the heart of everything we do. To preserve sustainable wild bird populations, no more than 20% of each area’s population is harvested per year.
Hunters can expect to flush between 40 and 100 birds per day, with an average bag of 20 to 30 birds, depending on shooting skill and group size. The optimal group size is three to four hunters.
Our upland bird season runs from 1 May to 31 July. Guests are welcome to enjoy freshly prepared game birds for dinner during their stay, while excess birds are cleaned, frozen, and shared with future guests and lodge staff — ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Wingshooting Accommodation
Francolin Creek - Free State
For guests who enjoy river views, open skies, and wide-open hunting terrain, Francolin Creek offers a unique setting just as inviting as the Free State uplands.
Settlers - Bella Bella
Our Settlers, Bela-Bela hunting area offers an array of bushveld accommodation options. Choose to truly unplug in the remote campsite or glamp it up in the Tented Camp
Abrahamshof - Free State
Scenic hills with bushveld and large grass plains presents the hunter with the best of both worlds and a top class hunting experience, making it ideal for Wingshooting and Big Game hunting
Francolin Creek - Free State
For guests who enjoy river views, open skies, and wide-open hunting terrain, Francolin Creek offers a unique setting just as inviting as the Free State uplands.
Settlers - Bella Bella
Our Settlers, Bela-Bela hunting area offers an array of bushveld accommodation options. Choose to truly unplug in the remote campsite or glamp it up in the Tented Camp
Abrahamshof - Free State
Scenic hills with bushveld and large grass plains presents the hunter with the best of both worlds and a top class hunting experience, making it ideal for Wingshooting and Big Game hunting
Why Choose Safari Bound for Your Wingshooting Safari?
- Prime Bird Hunting Locations: Access to some of Southern Africa’s best bird hunting areas.
- Ethical, Professionally Guided Hunts: Experienced guides ensuring safety and adherence to ethical hunting practices.
- Seasonal Planning: Hunts scheduled to align with optimal species and numbers.
- Customizable Itineraries: Tailored experiences to suit your skill level and preferences.
- Small Group Sizes: Personalized attention for a more enjoyable experience.
Why Choose Safari Bound for Your Wingshooting Safari?
- Prime Bird Hunting Locations: Access to some of Southern Africa’s best bird hunting areas.
- Ethical, Professionally Guided Hunts: Experienced guides ensuring safety and adherence to ethical hunting practices.
- Seasonal Planning: Hunts scheduled to align with optimal species and numbers.
- Customizable Itineraries: Tailored experiences to suit your skill level and preferences.
- Small Group Sizes: Personalized attention for a more enjoyable experience.
What’s Included
Professional hunting guide
Transport to hunting locations
Use of bird dogs (where applicable)
Field preparation of birds
Access to a variety of habitats
Shotgun rental (optional)
Planning Your Trip
We tailor every wingshooting safari to your schedule, species preference, and experience level. Hunts can be combined with plains game safaris or stand-alone as a dedicated bird hunting trip.
Let us craft your dream wingshooting safari in Africa. Whether you’re after fast-flying pigeons or a variety of waterfowl, we’ll deliver an unforgettable hunting adventure.
Accommodation
Todd Lutman and Safari Bound Southern Africa, offer luxury accommodation that blends true country living with modern comforts, set in various beautiful, game and bird rich South African provinces.
Bird Species
South Africa offers a variety of bird species as well as sensational landscapes that ensures you the very best in South African wingshooting on exclusive concessions located throughout South Africa.
Gallery
Our gallery features some images and video of Safari Bound Southern Africa’s previous bird hunting safaris as well as Gundog training by Todd Lutman himself, for your viewing pleasure.
Accommodation
Todd Lutman and Safari Bound Southern Africa, offer luxury accommodation that blends true country living with modern comforts, set in various beautiful, game and bird rich South African provinces.
Bird Species
South Africa offers a variety of bird species as well as sensational landscapes that ensures you the very best in South African wingshooting on exclusive concessions located throughout South Africa.
Gallery
Our gallery features some images and video of Safari Bound Southern Africa’s previous bird hunting safaris as well as Gundog training by Todd Lutman himself, for your viewing pleasure.
General Bird Hunting Information
Wing Shooting with Safari Bound Southern Africa
Southern Africa is home to some of the finest wing shooting in the world. With its incredible diversity of habitats — from windswept highlands and arid plains to lush wetlands and river valleys — the region offers one of the largest varieties of gamebird species found anywhere in Africa.
Whether you are a collector of rare bird species or a passionate wing shooter seeking the ultimate hunting experience, Safari Bound Southern Africa provides access to premier bird hunting areas designed to satisfy every enthusiast.
Our wing shooting safaris deliver exceptional results year after year, combining thrilling action with breathtaking scenery and professional guidance from experienced hunting teams.
Prime Hunting Seasons
Bird hunting seasons vary by province, but the prime months generally run from March through September. Early in the season, hunters can enjoy some of the most exhilarating pigeon and dove shooting in the world — true “hot-barrel” action over crop fields such as sunflower and maize.
Variety of Bird Species
The diversity of birdlife across Southern Africa ensures a rich and varied shooting experience. In the northern regions, hunters will encounter large flocks of Helmeted Guinea Fowl, while the mountainous Eastern Cape (above 6,000 feet) offers seven species of Francolin, including the challenging and highly prized Greywing, hunted over well-trained pointing dogs.
For waterfowl enthusiasts, more than 12 species await — including the impressive Spurwing Goose, often hunted from blinds or over decoys. Meanwhile, those seeking high-volume shooting will find endless excitement among vast flocks of pigeons and doves feeding on agricultural lands.
Custom Safari Experiences
Every wing shooting safari with Safari Bound Southern Africa is tailored to meet your preferences. In addition to exceptional bird hunting, itineraries can include photographic safaris, sightseeing excursions, or plains game hunting — making the adventure ideal for both hunters and non-hunting companions.
While emphasis is placed on variety over quantity, early-season hunts frequently produce impressive bags and unforgettable field experiences.
Guns, Groups & Ammunition
We recommend 12-gauge shotguns, as ammunition is widely available and ideal for the range of species encountered.
Although safaris are most effective with groups of four or more hunters, we are happy to cater to smaller, exclusive groups seeking a more personalized adventure.
Book Your Safari
Embark on a bird hunting experience that blends tradition, challenge, and conservation in one unforgettable African adventure.
Contact Safari Bound Southern Africa today to begin planning your ultimate wing shooting safari.
Terms and Conditions
Deposit
We confirm a Safari on receipt of a deposit calculated at 50% of the total daily rate of the hunt, the balance of the calculated daily rates is due 6 months prior to the commencement of your Safari. (plains game only)
Please contact Safari Bound Southern Africa regarding deposit/payment when a Safari is booked.
Trophy Fees and Additional Upgrades and Costs
That being said, all trophy fees and additional upgrades or costs will be based on the year that the hunt takes place unless otherwise stated in your Safari contract.
Cancellation Policy
Payment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is wing shooting in South Africa?
What types of birds can be hunted through wing shooting in South Africa?
South Africa is home to a diverse range of bird species, and many of them are available for wing shooting. Some popular game birds include the guinea fowl, francolin, quail, and various species of duck and geese.
Is wing shooting in South Africa legal?
Yes, wing shooting in South Africa is legal as long as hunters obtain the necessary permits and follow the regulations set by the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries.
What is the best time of year for wing shooting in South Africa?
The best time of year for wing shooting in South Africa is typically from May to August, which is the winter season. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, and many bird species are in season and available for hunting.
Are there any recommended locations for wing shooting in South Africa?
Yes, there are several recommended locations for wing shooting in South Africa, including game farms, hunting lodges, and private reserves. Some popular destinations include the Limpopo Province, Eastern Cape, and the Kalahari region. It is important to research and choose a reputable outfitter to ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.
Contact Todd Lutman
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