Tasmanian Highlands Hunting Calendar: When the Alpine Wilderness Calls - Fallow Deer, Wallaby and Mountain Pursuits Hunting Regulations & Seasonal Framework in The Tasmanian Highlands The Tasmanian Highlands operate under the state's strict Wildlife Regulations with distinct seasons for game species - fallow deer hunting runs from March to August, while Bennett's wallaby and feral rabbit seasons extend year-round. Waterfowl hunting is prohibited statewide, reflecting Tasmania's unique conservation priorities. The region's cool temperate climate creates compressed hunting windows - heavy snow often blocks high country access June-September, while summer brings park visitor restrictions. Unlike mainland alpine regions, Tasmania maintains absolute prohibitions on all hunting within its World Heritage Areas, covering 40% of the highlands. Recent reforms include mandatory GPS collar returns from harvested deer (2023) and real-time online access maps showing snow closures and fire danger ratings. The introduction of digital licensing has improved enforcement but requires pre-downloading in areas with no reception like the Central Plateau. Peak Hunting Windows & Game Behavior in The Tasmanian Highlands Fallow deer stalking peaks during the April-May rut when bucks become vocal in the mosaic of button grass plains and myrtle forests. The Tasmanian Highlands Deer Festival each May features calling competitions and marksmanship challenges across multiple reserves. Bennett's wallaby populations show increased dawn/dusk activity during winter (June-August) as they descend from high ridges to feed. Feral pigs (where present) are most active after summer rains (January-March) in northern valley systems. Unique to Tasmania, the Highland Wallaby Cull operates year-round to protect sensitive alpine vegetation, with special permits available for marksmen able to demonstrate extreme-range accuracy. The region's unpredictable weather creates brief hunting opportunities between fronts - local guides track these windows through specialized mountain forecasts. Absolute Bans & Special Restrictions in The Tasmanian Highlands All native species except Bennett's wallaby (under license) are strictly protected, including the vulnerable Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle. The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and all national parks prohibit hunting entirely. Lead ammunition is banned statewide for all hunting activities. Total fire ban days automatically suspend hunting access to state forests. Traditional Owner lands enforce additional cultural restrictions - the Lutruwita Hunting Code prohibits all hunting during muttonbird and swan breeding seasons (August-November). The use of thermal optics requires special permits even for pest control. Vehicle access is prohibited above 900m elevation from May-October due to snow risks. Licensing & Access Requirements in The Tasmanian Highlands Hunters must possess a Tasmania Game License (category-specific) and valid Firearms License, with additional Alpine Endorsement required for high country areas. The Tasmanian Hunting Association provides: Detailed access maps showing World Heritage boundaries Snow condition updates Emergency shelter locations Wallaby density reports Most hunting occurs in State Forests managed by Sustainable Timber Tasmania, requiring online booking ($50/week). The mandatory Highlands Safety Course covers: Hypothermia prevention Whiteout navigation Emergency snow camping River crossing protocols Penalties for Violations in The Tasmanian Highlands The region enforces Australia's strictest wilderness protections: Hunting in World Heritage Areas: $50,000 plus equipment confiscation Taking protected species: Up to $150,000 for endangered animals Lead ammunition use: $10,000 per offence Vehicle access violations: $15,000 and license suspension Parks and Wildlife officers conduct regular patrols with recent cases near Cradle Mountain resulting in $250,000 in collective fines for illegal deer hunting. Expert Tactics & Alpine Gear in The Tasmanian Highlands For fallow deer, .270 Winchester or 7mm-08 with 140+ grain copper bullets provides ideal performance in windy valley conditions. Wallaby culling requires precise .223 Remington shots at 150-200m across open plains. Essential equipment includes: Antarctic-rated waterproof clothing Mountain boots with crampon compatibility Avalanche beacons for winter hunting Lightweight tarp systems for sudden storms GPS units preloaded with heritage boundaries The Tasmanian Highlands Hunting Guide details glacial cave hazards and safe routes through alpine boulder fields. Local guides recommend hunting weather fronts when game moves predictably, and utilizing abandoned trapper's huts as emergency shelters. The Bronte Park Hunting School offers specialized courses in: Fog shooting techniques Snow camouflage Emergency game recovery in whiteout conditions Highland first aid protocols The Central Plateau Ice Hunt each winter tests skills in extreme conditions. The Lutruwita Cultural Hunts demonstrate traditional pandani spear techniques. Highland lodges host Between Weather Windows workshops teaching mountain forecasting. All events emphasize minimal impact practices in this fragile alpine environment.
Post: 21 August 19:40
