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Leopard Hunting in Zambia

Earl Peterson
|  
  • Earl Peterson

Leopard Hunting in Zambia
By Earl Peterson

During early September of 2018, I was heading to Africa with the excitement of a leopard.    I had a two-week hunt scheduled with one of WTA’s best African outfitters.  It was a leopard and plains game combo hunt on the banks of the Luangwa River northeast of Zambia’s capital, Lusaka.

Getting there was easy as I used WTA’s travel partner, Travel with Guns, to arrange my flights and get all of the necessary paperwork, for both the airline and the Zambian officials, completed for my rifle and cartridges.  Upon arrival in Lusaka, I was met as I came off of the aircraft and escorted to a charter plane for an 80-minute flight to my camp.  At the dirt airstrip, I was met by my PH, Jason, and his crew.  They had been pre-baiting at various sites in a wide area around our bush camp.  Because we were in the dry season and there had been no rain in over four months, the various animals were moving closer and closer to the Luangwa as it was their main source of water.  Our baits were all near the river where the game was in much higher numbers.

Zambia camp
First Zambia Camp

On the first full day of our hunt we were busy checking leopard baits and trail cams.  We had a lot of activity on our 10 baits and liking the looks of a particular leopard we captured on a trail cam, we decided to put out a pop-up blind 60 yards from the site, but wait for another day of trail cam photos before sitting.  The next day was full of activity as we had 8 males on 8 various baits.  By early afternoon, we were looking at photos from one trail cam and Jason said “we are moving”.  It was a picture of a very large leopard in daylight.    I shot an impala for fresh bait and we moved the pop-up blind and fresh bait to the new site. We were set for that evening.

Leopard Trail Cam
Leopard Trail Cam
Impala
Impala
Setting Up Bait
Setting Up Bait

Now, I must say, that I have had some great hunts in North America and around the world, but on this hunt to Zambia everything worked perfectly and I was just plain lucky for the shot opportunities that I had.   Just before dark the leopard came in.  A single shot and he was down and only went a few yards.   He was an absolute monster weighing over 170 pounds.  That evening was the traditional “victory celebration” at camp with singing, dancing and being carried around on the chair by the trackers and team.  Sending home an iPhone video, one of my grandchildren said with a bit of surprise, “Grandpa can dance”. 2572ce2a-70a8-4a0c-a470-08bccea482c5

My luck continued over the next few days as I had successful shot opportunities at a Sharpes Grysbok and a very nice Bush Buck.  We saw numerous Kudu in the mid 50’s but having shot two on previous hunts, I was waiting for something special.  When we saw another small group, Jason said “Earl, shoot that big one now!” I followed directions and a 61” trophy is heading home to Michigan.  This was an incredible free range Kudu!

Bush Buck
Bush Buck
Sharpes Grysbok
Sharpes Grysbok
Trophy Kudu
61″ Kudu

After a week in the camp on the East side of the Luangwa River, we moved across the river, upstream to another camp where other Plains Game were supposedly more plentiful. The camp was fantastic and everything said about the area was true.  In addition to the leopard, I was hoping to have the opportunity at a Sable.  This area is well known for great Sable.     Each day we saw hundreds, or perhaps thousands, of different animals.  My luck continued as I took a 40”+ Sable.  He was followed up by a fantastic old Red Roan Antelope, an extremely large Civet Cat, a Warthog and a Lichtenstein Hartebeest.  I was just plain lucky that these great trophies stepped out in front of me.  Oh, and my last piece of good luck was a 2nd Bush Buck that when I was told “you must shoot that one” and did so; he was a 17+” trophy.

Second Zambia Camp
Second Zambia Camp
Civet Cat
Civet Cat
Warthog
Warthog
17" Bush Buck
17″ Bush Buck
Lichtenstein Hartebeest
Lichtenstein Hartebeest
Sable
Sable
Red Roan Antelope
Red Roan Antelope

My September trip to Zambia was one that I will remember for my entire life.  Yes, I was lucky but my luck started when I booked the hunt.  I didn’t go to the wrong location with a questionable Outfitter or a questionable PH.  Go to the experts who vet their outfitters and secure the best concessions, dates and PH’s.  The experts at WTA will definitely help you to be lucky too.

 

Check out the hunt listing below:

http://worldwidetrophyadventures.com/outfitter-profile?hunt_id=1489 

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Building a Quail Hunter’s Paradise: Habitat Improvements and Day Hunts at Stonewall Plantation Outfitters

Building a Quail Hunter’s Paradise: Habitat Improvements and Day Hunts at Stonewall Plantation Outfitters

Expanding into quail hunting was a natural fit to complement Salt River Outfitters’ already thriving deer hunting operation. With a clear vision and a commitment to quality, we set out to create a quail program that could stand among the best in the region. Drawing on the expertise of skilled dog handlers, seasoned habitat specialists, and our experienced guides and habitat managers, we’ve built something special.

Over the last few years, we’ve been steadily transforming Stonewall Plantation’s land from cattle pasture to high-quality bobwhite quail habitat. We aimed to create hunts that feel as close to wild as possible, and unlike confined shooting preserves, our hunting grounds span diverse terrain including ridges, hollows, and rolling hills. That transformation hasn’t been easy, but it has been worth it. A huge part of that effort has focused on the removal of invasive fescue which had taken over much of the pasture. Fescue chokes out native grasses and eliminates the natural cover and food sources that the quail depend on. Through persistent spraying and management, we’ve brought back the native species and laid the groundwork for wildlife to thrive.

In addition to native grasses, we’ve planted food plots throughout the property—carefully selected mixes of grain sorghum, millet, sunflowers, corn, and Korean lespedeza. These plots not only support healthy quail populations, but they’ve also created a boom in other wildlife. Watching our dogs lock up on a big covey of birds is a rewarding moment, and those moments are coming more frequently each year.

Our last season proved that the work is paying off. Hunters enjoyed productive days in the field, with strong bird numbers and multiple coveys flushed during most outings. Many visitors left with full game bags, big smiles, and stories they’ll tell for years. Based on the success of a limited trial last year, we’re also excited to expand access with guided day hunts this upcoming season. In October and December, we’ll offer morning and afternoon hunts for up to three hunters at a time. Each hunter will have the opportunity to harvest up to 30 birds, with lunch included in the hunt package. It’s a new way to experience Salt River, whether you’re a first-time guest or a returning visitor.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard: “My dad and I hunted quail when I was younger, but with quail numbers down, we haven’t hunted them in years.” Last season, a gentleman booked a hunt for his father, his son, and himself—three generations in the field. The stories they shared around the dinner table that night were moving and unforgettable. The joy in their eyes and the bond they rekindled through the hunt reminded me why we do this.

Being part of such an experience—where a grandfather and father can introduce a young man to something they’ve cherished for decades—is priceless. Our goal at Stonewall Plantation Outfitters is to continue creating new memories for many seasons to come.

The habitat is stronger. The lodge is more comfortable. The birds are flying better. And our program now has a proven track record of delivering exceptional hunts. Whether you’re coming for a full three-day experience or joining us for a day hunt, we can’t wait to share this quail hunting heaven with you.

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Authentic Quail Hunting in Kentucky’s Heartland

Authentic Quail Hunting in Kentucky’s Heartland

If you’re looking for a genuine quail hunting experience paired with southern hospitality, our Kentucky operation delivers. Nestled in Bourbon Country in partnership with Worldwide Trophy Adventures, we’ve built an experience that honors upland hunting traditions while showcasing our stunning landscape.

Our historic property, once a cattle farm, has been carefully transformed into prime Bobwhite quail habitat. We aimed to create hunts that feel as close to wild as possible. The centerpiece is a fully restored pre-Civil War farmhouse, now a comfortable lodge accommodating up to 6 hunters.

Unlike confined shooting preserves, our hunting grounds span diverse terrain including ridges, hollows, and rolling hills. We’ve designed multiple routes across the property, ensuring each hunt feels unique and exciting. Guests often tell us that it’s the closest they’ve come to wild quail hunting in years.

We don’t impose bag limits. Arrivals are typically on Wednesdays, with two and a half days of hunting concluding on Saturday afternoon. Our philosophy is simple: create an authentic and enjoyable experience for all skill levels, free from the pressure of quotas.

Days begin with a hearty breakfast at the lodge. By mid-morning, you’re in the field with our skilled dog handlers and guides. We hunt until lunchtime, break for a meal, then head out for an afternoon session. Evenings bring cocktails, appetizers, and a delicious dinner followed by relaxation and camaraderie at the lodge.

We keep our group sizes intentionally small, usually two or three hunters, each paired with a handler and a guide. This ensures personalized attention and ample shooting opportunities. Our guides also will try to get some photos and videos for you to take home.

We take immense pride in our birds. Through an exclusive partnership with an experienced breeder, we offer mature, strong-flying quail that truly challenge hunters. Our dogs and handlers are also top-notch, crucial elements in creating memorable hunts.

A really cool added perk of our location is its proximity to Kentucky’s famed Bourbon Trail. Many of our guests combine their hunt with distillery visits. It’s the quintessential Kentucky experience. That’s also a great backup plan if weather disrupts hunting.

As another season approaches, we’re eager to share our creation with more bird hunters. With limited availability, now is the time to secure your spot. For details and bookings, contact us! Come experience Kentucky’s finest Bobwhite quail hunting!

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Quail Hunting in Sonora Mexico - The Journey Within, A Bird Hunter’s Diary

Quail Hunting in Sonora Mexico - The Journey Within, A Bird Hunter’s Diary

The last stop of my Upland Slam journey was in Mexico’s northern state of Sonora. Sonora is just across the border from Arizona and a bit of New Mexico. For the slam, we would be seeking Elegant quail and doves. In a later blog, I will cover our amazing dove hunting in Sonora. Sonora has always been one of my favorite hunting destinations as the people, culture, terrain and plentiful game ensure that my hunts there are always memorable. In February, leaving the snow in Michigan for Sonora’s warm desert, is another plus.

The main reason we chose Sonora for the Upland Slam was that the state is home to Elegant Quail. Elegant Quail are a New World species of quail that is only found in northern Mexico. Their range reaches from Sonora and Chihuahua into Jalisco, but the majority of the birds are in Sonora. They are commonly found in thorny scrub brush areas inter-mixed with open ground and are usually near cultivated fields. Because these birds are in northern Mexico, which makes them harder to hunt for US hunters, they are not as well-known as the other northern species of quail. Elegant Quail are also the least hunted species of quail. This is not because of low population numbers, which are stable and growing. It is solely because it is more difficult for bird hunters to get to them, especially if the upland hunters want to use their own dogs. Adding to the difficulty is that you need to hunt on private ground and only a small handful of outfitters offer Elegant Quail hunting.

WTA works with great outfitters from all over the world and we have some great ones in Sonora, where our team has personally hunted and vetted the operations. One outfitter, in particular, specializes in dove, quail, and waterfowl hunting. This team knows what they are doing and have numerous areas to hunt. This past spring, while seeking my World Turkey Slam in a single season, I was with this outfitter and hunted with them for Gould’s turkeys. I took two big toms while enjoying some great Mexican cuisine along the way. It was during this spring trip that I started to make plans for my February return trip for doves and quail.

The process for bringing dogs into Mexico is extremely simple, as is the process for returning your dog back to the US. In late 2019, the Mexican laws were changed, starting in 2020, so that no formal documentation was required to bring your dog from the US into Mexico. However, having travelled to Mexico numerous times in the past, I always want to be prepared, just in case there is a snag with customs while crossing the border. As a result, to avoid any potential problem, I obtained a veterinary certificate for each of the dogs. These certificates identified each of my dogs and showed that they were each up to date on all of their shots and vaccinations. I was asked, at customs in Hermosillo, to see the veterinary certificates and I was happy to have the documentation, so we cleared customs without a problem. Our outfitter did all of the necessary gun paperwork, in advance, and met us at the airport to assist in the process. Within an hour of landing, we were on the road to the lodge. The lodge is located on the outskirts of Hermosillo, which is perfect as it allows for easy travel to the different hunting areas scattered in different directions in surrounding Sonora.

There are two species of quail that are open to hunting in the areas around Hermosillo. These are Elegant Quail, the main reason for this trip, and Gambels Quail, which we had earlier hunted in Arizona. We would split our time in Sonora and hunt for both quail on this trip. Our main focus was Elegant Quail and we decided to target them first. From Hermosillo, we headed by vehicle about two hours northeast, which brought us into a rural agricultural/cattle grazing area. There were both Elegant Quail and some Gambels in the area, but the area was preferred by Elegant Quail. When hunting quail, it is not good to start early in the morning as the quail need time to get off the roost and start moving around. We targeted to be at our hunting areas around 9:30 in the morning and to have the dogs down and hunting by 10 am. This would give us a couple of good hours of hunting before the afternoon temperatures would get high enough to cause heat troubles for our dogs. We would take the mid-afternoons off to rest, as the temperatures were just too hot for the dogs to run. Later in the afternoon, when the temperatures started to drop, we could again hunt the last couple of hours before sunset.

After the long travel from Michigan to Sonora, our dogs were excited to be back in the field. It didn’t take long for the dogs to get birdy and, just like all of the other quail species, Elegant Quail like to show off their legs and run like crazy. After a bit of teamwork, we got our first covey cornered and got them in the air. As the cover was fairly thick, I didn’t have a shot on the initial break up of our first Elegant Quail covey. We then set out after singles, which tended to hold tighter and not run as much as the large covey. Both Arrow and Shooter locked up in front of me. I slowly walked up and two quail were in the air. I raised my Benelli Ethos and covered the first bird. After a quick trigger pull, I watched the bird fall. My first Elegant Quail was a gorgeous male. The pressure was now off for the trip as my last quail for the Upland Slam was in hand.

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