Chasing Australian Asiatic Water Buffalo

“I was lucky that, as a youngster, I was exposed to many valuable aspects of hunting and the outdoors,” Baum said. “My experience in and around the Adirondack Mountains taught me important skills, such as hunting camp tasks, navigation, parallel still hunting, and ultimately shooting. It also taught me the importance of conservation and the common bond between hunters.”

It’s no surprise that Baum would eventually gain a desire to hunt new areas and big game animals. And that he did, subsequently chasing and harvesting a variety of game in Saskatchewan, Newfoundland, Russia, and Africa. Baum would go on to contact Peter Lorman of Tropical Hunting Safaris to guide him in pursuit of the Asiatic Water Buffalo in Australia. When it was all said in done, the adventure would rank as one of the top hunting experiences for the accomplished sportsman.

“The whole experience was really gratifying for me,” Baum said. “It required a lot of research and preparation. The people at Safari Club International kept saying, call Peter [Lorman]. I’m glad I did. His knowledge, hospitality, and attention to detail truly made this a hunt of a lifetime.”

Several details have to be checked off before you ever arrive in northern Australia. Along with practicing shooting and loading your firearm of choice, you must research best-practices and laws for traveling with firearms and ammunition, as well as file accurate and necessary customs and passport information.

“There are many travel details to consider for a trip like this. If mistakes are made, the whole trip can be wrecked,” Baum said. “Of course, once there, shot placement is important with these animals, and they may charge you. It’s important to get very familiar with your weapon at home. You also want to be swift with loading and reloading.”

Baum depended on Peter and Tropical Hunting Safaris to ensure no detail was overlooked.

“Peter is very knowledgeable about all the details from start to finish and gladly helps. He was available along the way for help, if needed. Peter and his staff get it done before and during the hunt,” Baum said.

Once you arrive in Australia, you can expect about a 10-hour drive from Darwin to the Tropical Hunting Safaris camp in the Northern Territory. When you finally arrive, it’s game on. In such a wild and secluded environment, it’s important to align yourself with capable hosts.

“When we arrived, we found a camp leaving us wanting for nothing: comfortable lodging, ample water, kitchen, and satellite television. And the food – Peter is a great cook. The camp even has dependable satellite telephone service – it’s reassuring,” Baum said.

The expertise of the guides, paired with their local roots, gave Baum the peace-of-mind he needed to focus on the adventure of the hunt.

“Peter and his guides are experienced hunters that are good at what they do. It’s a safe and fun experience. Plus, they are native Australians and have a good relationship with the Australian Council. All the bases are covered,” he said.