Tag: Magpie Geese

Best Times of Year for Recreational Hunting in the Top End

The best times of year for recreational hunting in the Top End of the Northern Territory depend on the species you are targeting and the local climate.

Waterfowl (Magpie Geese and Ducks)

  • Season: The waterfowl hunting season typically opens in late September and runs through early January each year.

  • Why: This period aligns with the end of the dry season and the start of the wet season, when waterfowl populations are high and birds are concentrated on shrinking wetlands.

  • Bag Limits: For the 2022 season, hunters could take up to 7 magpie geese and 10 ducks per day, but these limits and dates are reviewed annually based on population surveys.

Feral Pigs and Buffalo

  • Season: Feral pig and buffalo hunting is generally permitted year-round, but the late dry season (August–October) is considered the peak time7.

  • Why: During the late dry, water sources become scarce, concentrating animals near remaining waterholes and making them easier to locate. The terrain is also more accessible, with lower flood risks and less dense vegetation.

  • Cautions: Late dry season can be extremely hot, so hunters must prepare for heat and dehydration risks.


Trail Cameras

Trail Cameras

General Climate Considerations

  • Dry Season (April–September): This is the most comfortable time for outdoor activities, including hunting, due to cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer storms.

  • Wet Season (October–March): Access can be limited due to flooding, and hunting is generally less productive except for some bluewater fishing opportunities.

Summary Table

Species/Target

Best Hunting Period

Notes

Waterfowl (geese, ducks)

Late September–early January

Regulated season, permits required

Feral pigs, buffalo

Late dry season (Aug–Oct)

Year-round, but late dry is most productive

General hunting

Dry season (Apr–Sep)

Best weather and accessibility

In summary:

  • For waterfowl, hunt during the official season (late September to early January).

  • For feral pigs and buffalo, the late dry season (August–October) is best for both animal concentration and hunter comfort.

  • Always check current regulations and permit requirements before hunting.


Hunting Gear

Hunting Gear

Top End Recreational Hunting

Recreational hunting is a popular and regulated activity in the Top End of the Northern Territory, with a strong local tradition and specific rules to ensure sustainability and safety. Here’s a detailed overview as @ May 2025:


Pig Hunting Gear

Pig Hunting Gear

What Can You Hunt?

  • Feral Pigs: Legal to hunt on nominated reserves with a pig hunting permit.

  • Waterfowl: Includes magpie geese, grey teal, pink-eared duck, hardhead (white-eye) duck, maned (wood) duck, wandering whistle duck, plumed whistle duck, and Pacific black duck. Hunting is only allowed during the declared season with a valid permit.

  • Buffalo: Central Arnhem Land is the premier destination, particularly areas around the Mann River and the Central Plateau. These regions are remote, scenic, and home to large populations of free-ranging water buffalo, as well as wild oxen (scrub bulls) and wild boar. Hunts are typically conducted on Aboriginal reserves or private leases, with access managed by professional outfitters.

Permits and Licensing

  • Permits Required: You must have a permit to hunt feral pigs or waterfowl, regardless of whether you hunt on public hunting reserves or private land (with landholder permission).

  • Permit Types & Costs:

    • 1-year waterfowl permit: $20

    • 5-year waterfowl permit: $80

  • Eligibility: Hunters must be 18 or over to apply. Children aged 12–17 can be nominated on an adult’s permit and hunt under supervision.

  • Firearms: You need a current NT shooters licence or equivalent interstate licence to use firearms. Bowhunters must provide valid photo ID.

Where Can You Hunt?

  • Public Hunting Reserves: Key reserves include Harrison Dam, Lambells Lagoon, Howard Springs, and Shoal Bay Coastal Reserve.

  • Private Land: Allowed with written permission from the landholder or occupier.

  • Crown Land & Aboriginal Land: Permitted with appropriate consent and compliance with regulations.

  • Back Country Hunting (BCH): NT residents can join BCH programs, requiring membership in an approved hunting organisation, BCH accreditation, and a firearms licence. BCH areas are allocated via permit and require a minimum hunting party of two for safety.

Seasons and Bag Limits

  • Waterfowl Season: The hunting season for magpie geese and waterfowl typically runs from late September to early January, but dates are set annually and must be checked each year.

  • Bag Limits: For the 2024-25 season, the daily bag limit is 7 magpie geese and 10 ducks per person.

  • Feral Pig Hunting: Permitted year-round on specified reserves with a valid permit.

Rules and Regulations

  • Hunting Methods: Only approved firearms or bows may be used. Lead shot is banned on all government hunting reserves-non-toxic shot is mandatory.

  • Safety: Minimum party of two for BCH; always check fire warnings and environmental conditions before heading out.

  • Children and Nominees: Juniors (12–17) and non-Australian residents can be listed as nominees on a permit and must be supervised.

  • Protected Species: Dingoes are protected and must not be shot. Hunters must be able to distinguish between protected and feral animals.

  • Reporting: Hunters may be required to submit returns on their hunting activity, especially for waterfowl.

Access and Overcrowding

  • Growing Popularity: Over 3,400 permits were issued last year, leading to overcrowding in some reserves.

  • Expansion Plans: There are proposals to expand existing reserves and open new hunting areas to ease pressure and improve hunter experience.

Technology and Resources

  • NT Hunting Mate App: Provides up-to-date rules, season dates, and hunting information for your phone.

Summary Table

What You Can Hunt

Where to Hunt

When to Hunt

Permit Needed

Bag Limits

Feral pigs, waterfowl

Public reserves, private land (with permission), BCH areas

Waterfowl: Sep–Jan; Pigs: year-round

Yes

Geese: 7/day, Ducks: 10/day

Recreational hunting in the Top End is well-regulated and remains a cherished part of the Territory lifestyle. Always check the latest rules, obtain the correct permits, and hunt safely and responsibly.