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

General Hunting Rules and Timings in the Upper West Region The Upper West Region maintains a controlled hunting season from November 1st to March 31st, aligning with the dry Harmattan winds that reduce vegetation cover. The Wildlife Division sets these dates based on annual wildlife censuses, particularly monitoring Western Hartebeest populations near the Black Volta River. Unlike Upper East's shorter season, Upper West allows extended hunting until March due to its transitional savannah-woodland ecosystem. Recent reforms (2023) introduced mandatory electronic tagging for all harvested antelope and a complete ban on patas monkey hunting. Historical changes include the 2020 restriction prohibiting hunting within 5km of Wichau Hippo Sanctuary. Cross-border differences exist with Ivory Coast, where the season starts two weeks later, creating temporary game movement patterns. Seasonal Hunting Dynamics and Game Activity Prime time for buffalo and hartebeest runs December-February when herds congregate at remaining water sources. Small game hunters target grasscutters and guinea fowl in January-March as bushfires reveal animal trails. Bird hunting peaks November-December for migratory doves along the Kulpawn River. The region hosts the Black Volta Hunting Festival each February, featuring traditional tracking competitions and marksmanship trials with muzzleloaders. Unique to Upper West: limited nocturnal hunting permits (7pm-5am) for cane rats, requiring special thermal imaging training since 2022. Bans and Restrictions for Ethical Hunting in the Upper West Region Absolute protection covers hippos, elephants, and all pangolin species. Strict quotas allow only one mature male per species per hunter annually. The closed season (April 1-October 31) sees armed patrols along the Ivory Coast border. Special rules apply near Jawia Sacred Grove: bow hunting only, maximum 2-day stays. Firearm restrictions prohibit anything larger than .375 for dangerous game and mandate non-toxic ammunition near waterways. New 2024 regulation requires hunters to submit DNA samples from harvested antelope for population studies. Licensing and Legal Access for Hunters Foreign hunters must obtain both the National Wildlife License ($400) and Upper West Endorsement ($150), available through authorized agents like Sahel Hunting Expeditions. Required documents include: passport copies, firearm registration, and proof of malaria prophylaxis. First-time applicants must complete the 3-day Upper West Hunting Ethics Course in Wa. Resident fees are ¢600 ($50) with traditional council approval. Processing takes 4-6 weeks - submit by September 15th for season opening. Penalties for Violating Hunting Laws in the Upper West Region Fines are strictly enforced: $3,000 minimum for out-of-season hunting, $20,000+ for hippo/elephant violations with mandatory 5-year prison terms. Unique penalty: confiscation of vehicles used in illegal hunts, with weekly public auctions in Wa. Rangers employ motion-sensor cameras along the Black Volta, and informant networks in border villages. Tactical Tips for Seasonal Success Use earth-tone ghillie suits for the sparse woodland terrain and pack 4L+ water daily - January temperatures exceed 42°C. For buffalo, track morning mud trails to wallows. The .300 Winchester Magnum is ideal for the region's mixed game. Traditional pit traps are illegal - use only approved cage traps for rodents. Local guides recommend mid-January for best hartebeest activity before the Harmattan peaks. Hunting Events in the Upper West Region The Wa Traditional Hunters' Gathering (December) demonstrates ancient tracking techniques using trained hunting dogs. February's Moonlight Cane Rat Challenge tests night hunting skills under special permit. Licensed outfitters offer pre-season habitat mapping tours (October) including wildlife photography workshops for conservation credits.