Wetland closures
Closed or further regulated hunting areas
Occasionally, wetlands or parts of wetlands, may be closed to duck hunting or hunting may be further regulated (e.g. hunting from boats prohibited) to protect concentrations of rare or threatened species or breeding waterbird colonies from disturbance or being mistakenly shot.
Further regulation can involve additional restrictions on hunting times, equipment and hunting methods. If a closure is required, this can involve a partial closure of a hunting area or full closure.
Wetlands are monitored throughout the duck season. If the reason for further regulation or closure no longer exists, the wetland may be reopened to hunting.
Check this page regularly for updates on wetland closures or the further regulation of hunting at wetlands during the 2026 duck season. Some wetlands may be added and others removed during the course of the season.
Hunting is not permitted in wildlife sanctuaries, including Reedy Lakes (Kerang), Kow Swamp (Gunbower) and Richardson River (Buloke Shire).
Wetlands closed or partially closed to hunting will be reflected in Victoria’s online hunting maps. Download the More to Explore app or visit MapshareVic.
Page last updated: 20 Jan 2026