Our Species

Waterbuck

Overview

Waterbuck are large, robust antelope easily recognised by the white ring around their rump.
They inhabit grasslands and savannas near rivers and lakes and depend heavily on water for survival. At Nick Bowker Hunting we pursue waterbuck along riparian zones where their habitat preferences create interesting stalks. These antelope are muscular and emit an oily secretion that waterproofs their coat—something that makes their meat less palatable to predators. For hunters, waterbuck provide a challenging stalk and a handsome trophy with long, ringed horns.
BOOK YOUR SAFARI HUNT TODAY

ON THIS PAGE

Pricing & Packages

Trophy fee
From US $2000
For a mature waterbuck bull.
Combination hunts fee
From US $5000 - US $7000
Waterbuck are often included in plains game packages, along along with species such as kudu and gemsbok.
Cull hunts fee
POR
Management or non‑trophy hunts are priced more affordably for those seeking meat rather than horns.

Hunting in South Africa

Waterbuck are seldom far from water and tend to bed in thick vegetation during the day.
Hunts target the edges of wetlands and rivers, particularly at dawn and dusk when waterbuck move to graze. Nick Bowker Hunting typically employs spot‑and‑stalk tactics. Wind direction is critical, as waterbuck have keen noses. Shots may be longer due to open floodplains, requiring stable rests and good optics.

Trophy Criteria & Scoring

Waterbuck horns are long and heavily ringed, usually measuring 26 to 28 inches.
SCI scoring combines length with base circumference, with a minimum entry of 67 points. Rowland Ward records emphasise horn length. Bulls with horns longer than 30 inches are exceptional. Look for thick bases and uniform rings for an attractive trophy.

Shot Placement & Caliber Recommendations

The best aiming point is the lower third of the shoulder, just behind the leg.
Waterbuck are solidly built, so a high‑calibre rifle is necessary to ensure sufficient penetration. A 7 mm or .300 calibre rifle with 150–180 grain bullets works well. Nick Bowker Hunting outfits hunters with .300 Win Mag rifles equipped with suppressors to reduce recoil and muzzle blast.

Male vs Female

Only male waterbuck have horns.
Bulls are larger and darker than cows, which are hornless and have slightly more reddish coats. Dominant bulls defend territories near water sources and gather harems of females. Females and young live in loose groups often watched over by a single bull.

MALE

FEMALE

Fascinating Facts

AFRICAN HUNTING GUIDE
1
Waterbuck rely on a secretion from glands that coats their fur, waterproofing the hair but giving off a strong odour.
2
They have a characteristic white circle on their rump, thought to serve as a visual cue for herd members when fleeing predators.
3
If threatened, waterbuck will take refuge in water, where they can outswim predators like lions.

Frequently Asked Questions

A trophy waterbuck hunt costs about $2 000, with package deals reducing overall costs.
Waterbuck are hunted year‑round. Early mornings and late afternoons yield the most activity.
Aim low behind the shoulder to penetrate the lungs and heart.
Long horns over 28 inches with heavy rings and thick bases are desirable.
No. Only bulls grow horns. Females are hornless and usually travel with young and other cows.

Ready to Hunt?

Ready to plan your Waterbuck hunt? Nick Bowker Hunting can help you design a safari that matches your goals and budget. Contact us to discuss dates, packages and any additional species you might like to pursue.
BOOK YOUR SAFARI HUNT TODAY