High Country Hunting Calendar: Mastering Alpine Seasons for Sambar, Deer and Mountain Game

Hunting Regulations & Seasonal Framework in the High Country The Australian High Country operates under strict state-based regulations with Victoria and NSW managing respective alpine zones. Sambar deer hunting runs year-round in both states as an invasive species control measure, while fallow deer seasons typically span March-October. Duck seasons follow state protocols (March-June in Victoria, variable in NSW). The alpine environment creates compressed hunting windows - heavy snow blocks access June-September, while summer brings park visitor restrictions. Unlike lowland regions, the High Country's vertical terrain means game concentrations vary dramatically by elevation. Recent reforms include mandatory GPS collar returns from harvested deer in Victorian Alpine National Park control zones and real-time online fire danger maps affecting access. Peak Hunting Windows & Game Behavior in the High Country Sambar stalking peaks April-May during the rut when stags vocalize frequently in snow gum woodlands between 900-1500m elevation. Fallow deer are best hunted March-April in lower valley systems before winter snows. Duck shooting thrives early season (March) in alpine wetlands before birds disperse. The High Country Hunting Festival each April features sambar calling competitions across state borders, while local clubs organize winter predator hunts targeting foxes threatening mountain pygmy-possum habitats. Feral horse management programs create unique hunting opportunities in Kosciuszko National Park buffer zones. Absolute Bans & Special Restrictions in the High Country All native species including mountain pygmy-possums and alpine dingoes are protected. National park boundaries vary by state - hunting is completely prohibited in NSW parks while Victoria allows limited control programs. Lead shot is banned statewide in wetland areas. Aerial hunting requires special permits. Summer total fire bans often close access tracks December-March. Licensing & Access Requirements in the High Country Hunters need state-specific Game Licenses (Victorian Hunting License or NSW Game Hunting License) plus valid Firearms Licenses. The Alpine Hunting Heritage Association provides cross-border access maps and runs mandatory avalanche safety courses. All Victorian deer hunters must complete the Deer Hunting Course and carry emergency beacons above treeline. NSW requires R-License endorsements for public land hunting. Penalties for Violations in the High Country Illegal hunting in national parks attracts fines exceeding $39,000 in Victoria and $220,000 in NSW. Taking protected species carries additional penalties up to $82,610. Failure to report deer harvests in Victoria results in $1,817 fines. Random checks occur at trailheads like Mt Hotham and Thredbo River. Expert Tactics & Mountain Gear in the High Country For sambar, use .308 Winchester or larger calibers with 165+ grain bonded bullets for steep angle shots. Glass north-facing slopes during morning thaw when deer feed actively. Pack ice axes and crampons for early season snow patches - the Australian Alpine Club offers specialized hunter mountaineering courses. Feral horse management requires .30-06 or larger at extended ranges. Always carry printed maps and compass - GPS fails in deep valleys. The High Country hosts unique hunting gatherings like the Snowy Mountains Sambar Challenge where participants track deer across alpine terrain while collecting biological data for researchers. Winter brings the Alpine Fox Hunt using thermal optics in snow-covered valleys, combining pest control with wilderness skills training. Local clubs run Avalanche Awareness for Hunters clinics before each season, teaching snowpack evaluation and emergency shelter building. The High Country Hunting Expo showcases specialized gear for mountain environments, including altitude-adjusted ballistic demonstrations. All events emphasize strict compliance with cross-border regulations and alpine safety protocols.