Duck

Recreational duck hunting in Victoria is managed on a sustainable basis with authorities setting bag limits and season dates to ensure that hunting does not threaten the conservation status of any game species.

Recreational duck hunting is permitted in Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory. In Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, before being permitted to hunt ducksyou are required to pass a Waterfowl Identification Test (WIT).

This ensures that all licensed duck hunters can adequately identify game and non-game waterbirds while in the field.

Hunters will incur heavy penalties for shooting non-game species including: fines; seizure of firearms and/or equipment; loss of their Game Licence; and, in some instances, jail sentences. If you can't positively identify your target, don't shoot.

Hunting maps Duck hunting education module Wetland closures Avian Influenza information for hunters

Duck season arrangements

Find out important information about duck season including start and finish dates and times, bag limits, game duck species permitted to be taken and other arrangements.

Wetland closures

Check this page for updates on wetland closures or the further regulation of hunting at wetlands during the duck season. Some wetlands may be added and others removed during the course of the season.

Wetland management process

Reduce Wounding

Where to hunt

When to hunt

Adaptive Harvest Management for game duck hunting in Victoria

Duck hunting methods and laws

Learn about duck hunting methods and laws in Victoria.

Game duck species

In normal years, 8 species of native duck may be hunted in Victoria. Learn about their habitat and distribution, how to identify them, and whether you are permitted to hunt them in Victoria.

Ethical hunting

Hazards and safety