Hunting Laws and Seasons in Savannah: General Hunting Rules, Permits, Restrictions & Time-Honored Events

General Hunting Rules and Timings in the Savannah Region The Savannah Region’s hunting season officially runs from November 1st to April 30th, aligning with Ghana’s dry season when wildlife concentrates around dwindling water sources. The Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission strictly enforces these dates, adjusting for ecological shifts like delayed rains or drought. Unlike the more forested Oti Region, Savannah’s open grasslands and sparse woodlands favor spot-and-stalk tactics for antelope and warthog. Historical reforms include a 2018 ban on hunting roan antelope (now critically endangered) and tighter restrictions on migratory bird species. Cross-border differences exist: Togo’s hunting season starts earlier (October), pushing some game into Ghana’s Savannah Region by November. Seasonal Hunting Dynamics and Game Activity Large game like hartebeest and bushbuck are best hunted in December–February when males are territorial and less cautious. Small game (francolin, hares) peaks in March–April as grasses dry, improving visibility. Bird hunters target November–December for doves and guinea fowl during early dry-season grain foraging. The Mole National Park buffer zones see heightened activity at dawn, especially near the Lovi and Nawuni rivers. The region hosts the Savannah Hunters’ Gathering every January, featuring tracking competitions and traditional bow-making workshops. Avoid May–October; flooding and breeding bans make hunting both illegal and impractical. Bans and Restrictions for Ethical Hunting in the Savannah Region Endangered species like pangolins, elephants, and wild dogs are fully protected—zero exceptions. Females with offspring and juveniles are off-limits year-round. A total hunting ban applies from May 1st to October 31st to protect breeding herds. Night hunting and poison traps are illegal. Firearm restrictions include no rifles above .375 caliber for non-dangerous game. Always check the updated Wildlife Conservation Regulations pamphlet (available at district offices), as fines for violations have doubled since 2022. Licensing and Legal Access for Hunters Foreign hunters must obtain a Non-Citizen Hunting License (∼$300/year) from the Wildlife Division in Accra or Tamale, while locals pay ∼$50. Required documents include a passport copy, firearm certificate (if applicable), and proof of guided hunt arrangements with registered outfitters like Savannah Trailblazers. Group licenses cover up to 6 hunters. Processing takes 2–4 weeks—apply by October for November openings. Day permits ($20) are available for small game but exclude large mammals. Penalties for Violating Hunting Laws in the Savannah Region Fines start at $1,000 for unlicensed small-game hunting and escalate to $10,000+ and 5-year prison terms for killing protected species. Rangers conduct surprise checks near Digya National Park boundaries. Confiscated firearms are rarely returned. Tip: Carry license copies at all times—digital copies aren’t accepted in remote areas. Tactical Tips for Seasonal Success Use dust-colored camouflage for Savannah’s golden grasslands and prioritize wind direction—game here is skittish. December’s cooler temps make all-day sits viable near waterholes. For warthogs, focus on acacia thickets mid-morning. Bring a lightweight .30-06 rifle for versatility; bows are legal but impractical for long-range shots in open terrain. Pack iodine tablets—stream water is unreliable post-January. Hunting Events in the Savannah Region The Bole Hunting Expo (February) showcases trophy measurements and sustainable butchering demos. In March, the Guinea Fowl Calling Championship draws teams competing with traditional whistles. Local guides offer pre-season scouting trips (October) for $50/day, including mock tracking drills.