Hunting in South Africa
Warthog hunts often happen opportunistically while pursuing other plains game.
They are active during the day and favour open areas where they can see predators. Warthogs live in family groups called sounders and quickly retreat to burrows when threatened. Nick Bowker Hunting guides stalk quietly along game trails and watering points. Hunters must be ready to shoot quickly as warthogs seldom stand still. Boars with large tusks are the primary trophy targets.
Trophy Criteria & Scoring
Warthog trophies are judged by the length and circumference of the upper tusks.
The tusks curve upward from the snout. The SCI minimum score for a warthog is 29 points, measured by the longest tusk plus its base circumference. Boars have two sets of warts on their faces and thicker tusks than sows. Tusks measuring over 10 inches are considered exceptional.
Shot Placement & Caliber Recommendations
For a broadside shot, aim low in the shoulder just behind the front leg.
This will hit the heart and lungs. Some hunters also take frontal shots between the eyes for a brain shot, but this requires absolute confidence. Calibre recommendations include .270 or .308 for warthog, but many hunters use the same .300 Win Mag they carry for larger antelope. Ammunition with strong penetration is important to break through the shoulder.
