ZAMBIA’S SABLE LEGACY LIVES ON

I am writing in support of Robin Hurt’s excellent story (Magnum August 2020) of his quest for a big sable in the late 1970s. In fact, 1979, the year he shot his remarkable animal, marked my arrival in Zambia. I have followed with great interest the story of this wonderful country’s wildlife and hunting opportunities since that time. My first sable came from the same area, Sichifulo, a modest specimen of 42 inches but I have to confess he was running with another eight bulls so excitement rather overtook emotions and I did not necessarily shoot the best from the group. However I was thrilled and he was ‘shining black’.

The sable in the photo was shot by an international client in early November 2020 and measures 46.6" with 11" bases. The sable skull photo shows a pick up of 51". Both specimens have extraordinary sweep and are from an area North of Kasonso called Ilinda. Sichifulo and Ilinda are at opposite ends of the Kafue National Park but I’m sure Robin will be heartened by the existence of such trophy quality in this day and age. The area in question is an unfenced private game project and the only reason that such animals survive, is through hunting revenue and the dedication of the hunting community in protecting the area. I am told there are also excellent Sitatunga to be had in this particular area.

Zambia remains the finest country in which to harvest a great sable from the wild. I hope the pictures will galvanise clients to head this way. – Fergus Flynn