Hunting in South Africa
Common reedbuck live in pairs or small groups near water.
They feed at dawn and dusk, often bedding in tall grass during the day. When disturbed, they let out a piercing whistle and bound away, stopping to look back. Nick Bowker Hunting hunts reedbuck by glassing long grass from high points and moving quietly along riverbanks. Shots are often taken from a rest due to long distances.
Trophy Criteria & Scoring
Reedbuck horns curve forward and then upward, reaching about 12 inches.
The SCI minimum score is 21 points, combining length and base circumference. Rowland Ward records focus on horn length. Horns over 14 inches are considered exceptional.
Shot Placement & Caliber Recommendations
The preferred aiming point is at the top of the heart/lung area.
This will be approximately one third up from the bottom of the shoulder. Because reedbuck have long necks, aim carefully behind the leg. Calibres such as .243, .270 or .30‑06 with soft‑point bullets work well. Many hunters use the same .300 calibre rifle they carry for other plains game.
