The South Pacific Slam with Ben Salleras

In this episode of Becoming a Bowhunter, Matty is joined once again by Ben Salleras, one of only a handful of hunters to ever complete the elusive South Pacific Slam. But what even is that? Ben unpacks the “South Pacific 15,” the challenges of defining a slam in our part of the world, and why the pursuit became such a personal obsession.

We dive deep into the last hunt that finished off his South Pacific Slam, the Wapiti from the intense terrain in Fiordland, NZ

Podcast Topics:

The South Pacific 15: What species make the list, what gets left out, and why the official slam isn’t quite officialFiordland Realities: Brutal terrain, vertical jungle, and one of the harder hunts Ben has ever doneCatseye Block Breakdown: Choosing the right block and period for wapiti successCompleting the Slam: The planning, prep, and long-range logistics that led to the final tick — the Fiordland wapitiGotta Catch ’Em All: Why collecting species hits the same nerve as childhood card collectingHybrid Bugles & Elk Behavior: Why most wapiti calls in Fiordland sound more like elk than red deerMindset in the Mountains: Choosing the right hunting partner, dealing with weather windows, and staying cool under pressureThis young bull wants to fight… The story of Ben nearly being attacked by an aggressive young Wapiti bull.I saw two possible locations for the tent in the 6 days we were there From hunting pigs in Queensland to global adventures… Anything is possible when you set your mind to it. Ben shares future goals, trips planned and a reflection on just what he has achieved with a bow.

Whether you’ve dreamed of your own slam or just love hearing in-depth yarns about a hunt, this is a thoughtful and wild ride through Benny’s South Pacific’s bowhunting feat.

Find Ben Salleras:

Instagram: @bensalleras

Find Becoming a Bowhunter:

Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast

Hosted by: @mattyafter

Episode Sponsors:

Dog and Gun Coffee – @dogandguncoffee Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off.Kayuga Broadheads – @kayuga_broadheads Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off.Venture Hunting & Outdoors – @venturehunting Gear up for your next hunt.Jab Stick Outdoors – @jabstickoutdoors Precision-engineered carbon shafts. Use code BAB10 for $10 off.

The South Pacific Slam with Ben Salleras

Becoming a Bowhunter

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