Beyond the Shot: The Hidden Side Benefits That Make a Hunt Unforgettable

Hunting trips aren't just about the animals — they're about the food, the people, the unexpected side trips that turn an adventure into a lifetime memory. From knife shops in Argentina to elephants on the Caprivi highway, here’s why thinking beyond the shot might be the best thing you do on your next hunt.

Visiting Chicago Via Amtrak While Hunting In The USA

Introduction

When most people plan a hunting trip, they focus on the rifle, the camo, and the pursuit of that one perfect animal. But for me — and for many seasoned hunters — the real magic often lies in the side benefits you discover along the way.

Exploring a city, tasting local dishes, shopping for a handmade knife, or casting a line in a nearby river — these experiences turn a hunting trip into a true, full-bodied adventure.

Tasting the Land: Local Food & Drinks

Every region tells its story through food.

When I hunted buffalo, blackbuck, and capybara in Argentina, I didn’t stop at the hunt. Buenos Aires drew me in with thick-cut steaks sizzling over open flames, rich red Malbec wine, and decadent cakes and coffee in local cafés. One night, I even found myself at a late-night tango show — the dancers' energy as fierce and untamed as the pampas themselves.

In Namibia, Joe’s Beerhouse in Windhoek served up a superb range of African game meats and seafood, all washed down with cold beer. It’s the kind of place where you can relive the day’s hunt over a plate of kudu or oryx.

Knives, Crafts & Outdoor Shops

Hunters are gear junkies by nature.

In Buenos Aires, I discovered beautiful gaucho-style knives — each one a piece of art, perfectly balanced and built to last. In Namibia, the open markets near the Hilton Hotel end of Windhoek offered fine cultural souvenirs, from hand-carved wooden pieces to beadwork and textiles that capture the soul of Africa.

In the USA, the gear options are endless. Whether you’re wandering through a giant Bass Pro Shops, a local outfitter along old Route 66, or specialty knife stores in the Rockies, there’s always a new treasure to find. From the stark beauty of Joshua Tree forests in California to the lush Cascade Mountains on the Canadian border, there’s something for every outdoorsman.

Exploring Local Foods

Fishing & Wildlife Encounters

If there’s water nearby, I’ll always pack a rod. There’s nothing quite like catching a trout or barra on the side, especially after a few days of glassing ridges.

In Africa, the road trip from Windhoek to Victoria Falls through the Caprivi Strip was one of the most remarkable wildlife drives I’ve ever taken. Elephants, buffalo, zebra — all right there on the main highways. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best encounters happen off the hunting block.

Culture, History & Bucket List Moments

Cities and local communities always have stories to tell.

In Buenos Aires, I took a double-decker city bus tour first thing, which gave me the lay of the land and highlighted places I wanted to revisit — hidden restaurants, old knife shops, and historic neighbourhoods.

And then there are the truly unique experiences. In the USA, I found a train ride where I could sit up front with the engineer — a genuine bucket-list moment. Watching the landscape roll by from that perspective was something I'll never forget.

Bucket List Train Trip In The USA While Elk Hunting

The Joy of Slow Moments

Not every day needs to be jam-packed. Some of my favourite memories happen in small cafés, enjoying a strong coffee and a pastry, reflecting on the hunt, or simply watching life roll by.

These slow mornings recharge the spirit and often bring clarity and gratitude for the wild places we get to explore.

My Approach: Plan for More Than the Hunt

When I plan a hunt these days, I always leave space for these side benefits. They remind me that hunting isn’t just about antlers or horns — it’s about connecting deeply with a place and its people.

Next time you’re plotting your next big adventure, think beyond the shot. Add an extra day (or two), try the local food, visit a market, wander through an old knife shop, or book that train ride you’ve always dreamed about.

You’ll come home with more than a trophy — you’ll come home with a richer story, one that lasts far beyond the hunt itself.

What About You? Whats Beyond The Shot?

What “side benefits” do you look for on your hunts? A city stroll, a fishing detour, or maybe that bucket-list train ride up front with the engineer? Drop them in the comments below or share a photo — I’d love to hear what makes your hunting adventures unforgettable.