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

Hunting Seasons and Legal Framework in the North East Region The North East Region maintains a tightly controlled hunting season from December 1 to March 15, coinciding with the Harmattan period when wildlife concentrates around the White Volta and Red Volta river basins. The Wildlife Division adjusts dates annually based on transboundary animal movements from Burkina Faso, often extending by two weeks when drought persists. Unique to this region are cross-border tracking permits required within 10km of international boundaries and sacred baobab grove protections where hunting is permanently banned. Since 2022, all hunters must use non-toxic ammunition and submit to monthly blood lead tests at regional clinics in Nalerigu and Walewale. Game-Specific Seasons and Peak Activity Prime time for roan antelope and hartebeest runs January-February when herds migrate from Burkina Faso. Early March offers exceptional hunting for guinea fowl as they flock near shea nut processing sites. The region hosts the Mamprusi Royal Hunt (January), featuring traditional spear and bow techniques, and the White Volta Hippo Watch (February), combining conservation with problem animal control. Bird hunters target December for sandgrouse along seasonal waterways. Avoid April-November when heavy rains flood the Kulpawn River basin and most species enter breeding cycles. Protected Species and Cultural Restrictions in the North East Region Absolute bans protect elephants, wild dogs, and white vultures (considered royal birds). Special traditional bans apply within 5km of any Gambaga escarpment shrine and during Damba festival periods. The entire region closes April-November, with additional weekly bans every Friday in the Nabdam sacred lands. Since 2023, all antelope hunts require horn measurement (minimum 20cm for roan) to protect juvenile stock. Licensing Process and Traditional Requirements in the North East Region Foreign hunters need a Sahel Zone Permit (≈$2,800 for 30 days) through licensed operators like North East Frontier Hunts, submitting cross-border clearance certificates and desert survival training proof. Local hunters must obtain earth priest approval and pass oral examinations on Mamprusi hunting traditions. The North East Trackers Association provides mandatory Dagomba-speaking guides trained in transboundary wildlife patterns. Penalties for Violations Cultural offenses incur fines up to 120,000 GHS (≈$10,000) plus traditional cleansing rituals, with elephant poaching punishable by 10 years imprisonment. Wildlife officers conduct joint patrols with Burkina Faso counterparts along the White Volta. All hunters must carry waterproof permits - damaged documents void insurance coverage. Tactical Recommendations for North East Hunts For savanna game, .300 Winchester Magnum is ideal for roan antelope, while 20-gauge shotguns work best for guinea fowl. Heat-reflective clothing is essential in the Gambaga escarpment. Hunt dry riverbeds at dawn when animals visit for residual moisture. The Mamprusi silent approach - using termite mounds as blinds - proves most effective here. Cultural Hunting Events The Gambaga Fire Hunt (December) revives ancient flame-herding techniques, while the Nalerigu Moonlight Vigil (February) allows licensed hyena hunting. The White Volta Conservation Hunt (March) pairs foreign hunters with local farmers to control crop-raiding baboons.