Hunting in Bono East: Understanding Hunting Calendar, Legal Permits and Restrictions, Local Hunting Traditions

Hunting Seasons and Legal Framework in the Bono East Region The Bono East Region maintains a strictly regulated hunting season from November 15 to March 1, coinciding with the dry Harmattan winds that drive game to the Pru and Sene river basins. MINFOF adjusts dates annually based on water level sensors in the Volta Lake, often extending the season by two weeks when drought persists. Unique to this region are floodplain hunting permits requiring special authorization within 5km of the Black Volta River, where hippopotamus hunting (quota system only) is permitted under strict supervision. Since 2021, all hunters must use biodegradable ammunition and submit to weekly lead level blood tests at regional clinics. Game-Specific Seasons and Peak Activity Prime time for waterbuck and kob runs December-January when they congregate at shrinking waterholes. February offers exceptional hunting for olive baboons raiding cashew plantations. The region hosts the Pru River Hippo Harvest (January), where licensed hunters help cull problem animals, and the Bono Ancestral Hunt (February), featuring traditional spear and net techniques. Bird hunters target November-December for Egyptian geese migrating along the Volta flyway. Avoid April-October when flooding makes 60% of hunting areas inaccessible and most species enter breeding cycles. Protected Species and Cultural Restrictions in the Bono East Region Absolute bans protect elephants, manatees, and white-necked rockfowl. Special royal game reserves prohibit hunting within 10km of any traditional shrine. The entire region closes April-October, with additional weekly bans every Tuesday for land purification rites. Since 2022, all kob hunts require horn-spiral counting (minimum 2.5 turns for males) to protect immature stock. Licensing Process and Traditional Requirements Foreign hunters need a Volta Basin Permit (≈$2,200 for 30 days) through operators like Bono East Safaris, submitting water navigation certificates and traditional conflict resolution training proof. Local hunters must obtain family land-use clearance and pass ancestral hunting lore exams. The Bono East Trackers Guild provides mandatory Mo-speaking guides trained in floodplain survival tactics. Penalties for Violations in the Bono East Region Cultural offenses incur fines up to 12 million XAF (≈$19,500) plus ritual cleansing costs, with hippo poaching punishable by 5 years' imprisonment. Wildlife officers conduct night vision patrols along the Sene River, where illegal fishing often masks hunting activities. All hunters must carry waterproof permit cases - damaged documents void insurance coverage. Tactical Recommendations For floodplain game, .375 H&H Magnum with solid bullets is mandatory for hippo, while .270 Winchester works best for kob in woodland edges. Amphibious hunting boots are essential for Volta Lake marshes. Hunt abandoned fishing camps at dawn when animals visit for salt residues. The Bono paddle-and-stalk method - using dugout canoes for silent approach - proves most effective here.