Hunting Calendar in Bono: The Thrill of Hunting Events and Traditions, Legislation & General Hunting Rules and Permits

Hunting Seasons and Legal Framework in the Bono Region The Bono Region operates a dual hunting season from December-February and June-August, strategically timed around the region's unique intermediate climate patterns between northern savannas and southern forests. The Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF) coordinates with traditional Bono chiefs to adjust dates based on shea nut harvest cycles, often extending the June season by two weeks when migratory birds delay their southward movement. Special regulations govern hunting in the transitional woodland zones, requiring non-lead ammunition within 5km of the Banda Hills. Since 2022, all hunters must submit tusk/horn measurements for harvested bushbuck and warthogs within 72 hours via the Bono Wildlife App. Game-Specific Seasons and Peak Activity The December peak offers prime hunting for roan antelope moving south from Burkina Faso, while July-August provides exceptional opportunities for giant forest hogs raiding yam plantations. The region hosts the Bono Bushmeat Festival (January), featuring traditional snare-making competitions, and the Black Volta River Challenge (July), combining canoe navigation with hippo spotting. Bird hunters target November-December for spur-winged geese at Tain II Reservoir, while August is best for guinea fowl during their seasonal flocking. Avoid March-May and September-November when heavy rains flood the Kulpawn River basin and most species enter breeding cycles. Protected Species and Cultural Restrictions in the Bono Region Absolute bans protect elephants, pangolins, and white-breasted guinea fowl. Special traditional bans prohibit hunting within sacred groves during Bono purification rituals (announced by talking drums). The entire region closes March-May and September-November, with additional weekly bans every Friday in the Bui National Park buffer zone. Since 2023, all warthog hunts require tusk measurements (minimum 15cm for males) to protect juvenile populations. Licensing Process and Community Requirements Foreign hunters need a Transition Zone Permit (≈$1,800 for 30 days) through operators like Bono Heritage Hunts, submitting certificates of cultural sensitivity training and GPS deposit fees. Local hunters must obtain family landowner consent and pass traditional tracking tests administered by Bono elders. The Bono Hunters Alliance provides mandatory Dagara-speaking trackers specializing in migratory game patterns. Penalties for Violations in the Bono Region Cultural offenses incur fines up to 10 million XAF (≈$16,300) plus traditional restitution ceremonies, with poaching in sacred areas punishable by community service at shrines. Wildlife officers conduct undercover operations in Bondoukou market targeting illegal bushmeat trade. All hunters must carry laminated maps of sacred sites - violations trigger immediate permit revocation. Tactical Recommendations for Bono Region Hunts For woodland game, .30-06 Springfield with 180-grain bullets provides optimal performance across varied terrain. Anti-tick impregnated clothing is essential in the Banda Hills. Hunt abandoned shea nut collection sites at dusk when animals visit for residual minerals. The Bono drive method - using coordinated drum signals - proves most effective for group hunts. Cultural Hunting Events The Damba Festival Hunt (December) revives ancient archery techniques for grasscutters, while the Bono Moonlight Vigil (July) allows licensed night hunting of crop-raiding hogs. The Black Volta Conservation Hunt (August) pairs foreign hunters with local guides to cull quota-approved hippos threatening riverside farms.