PH Journals Podcast

Every hunter remembers certain animals. Not always the biggest trophies or the easiest hunts, but the animals that leave behind lessons you carry for the rest of your career.

In this solo episode of PH Journals, I reflect on a few animals that shaped the way I approach hunting today. From an eland hunt with Cody that showed how small the margin for error can be, to the chaos of black wildebeest where adrenaline can easily get the better of you.

I also talk about the unpredictable nature of bushbuck in the coastal bush, the respect and planning required to hunt kudu successfully, and the humbling reality of Cape buffalo—how a herd can disappear in seconds and remind you how little control you really have in the African bush.

These animals didn’t just provide hunts… they provided lessons.

Lessons about patience, discipline, planning, and respect for the craft of hunting.

This episode breaks down why the first 48 hours of a safari determine everything that follows. From airport pickup to the first morning in the bush, I unpack the psychology, leadership, and subtle decisions that shape a hunter’s experience. Whether you're a client preparing for Africa or a PH looking to refine your approach, this conversation will give you practical insight into what really makes a safari unforgettable. Because it’s never just about the first animal — it’s about the foundation you build before the first shot.

Everyone sees the hero shots.
The handshakes.
The trophy photos.

Very few see the quiet mornings, the pressure, the responsibility, and the loneliness that can come with being a Professional Hunter.

In this solo episode, I share personal reflections from my years in the industry — from managing expectations and carrying responsibility, to balancing family life and identity beyond hunting.

Being a PH is an honour. But it’s also a weight.

Tipping after a hunting safari in Africa is one of the most misunderstood parts of the experience — especially for international hunters visiting South Africa for the first time.

In this solo episode, I break down safari tipping and gratuities in a clear, practical way. We cover who should be tipped, how much is considered fair, when tips are usually given, and why tipping plays such an important role in the African hunting and game industry.

This episode includes real-world guidance on:

Tipping a Professional Hunter (PH)

Gratuities for trackers, skinners, and camp staff

Common tipping mistakes hunters make

Why gratuities directly impact conservation, livelihoods, and service quality

How to plan and budget for tips before your safari

Whether you’re planning your first African hunt or returning for another safari, this episode will help you feel confident, prepared, and respectful when it comes to tipping in South Africa and across Africa.

This is an honest, experience-based conversation aimed at improving understanding within the hunting industry and helping hunters navigate safari culture with clarity.

Booking your first African safari can feel overwhelming — especially for American hunters navigating different countries, pricing structures, and hunting styles. In this solo episode of PH Journals, professional hunter Anri Steyn shares a practical first-timer checklist covering what to ask, what to avoid, and how to book Africa the right way.
If you’re planning your first safari, listen in — and share this episode with someone dreaming of Africa.