Hunting PESTS in State Forests Victoria & Private Land

[ipcassist]

Hi guys, I'm new to hunting and would like to start by hunting rabbits and foxes on crown land, I'm aware I don't need any additional permit other than a firearms licence. So where are good places to head off to? I don't want to travel too far and currently live about 60 mins East of Melbourne in West Gippsland.
While I'm at it I should ask if there are any land owners in this area that may permit me to access their land for target practice and sighting in my rifle.
I have public liability insurance cover with membership to the SSAA.
Cheers M

[tom604]

welcome to the forum,

[RealNick]

While I'm at it I should ask if there are any land owners in this area that may permit me to access their land for target practice and sighting in my rifle.

All you can do is ask.

Not saying don't do it, but be aware they might have been asked before. There are more shooters than properties so finding and invite can be tough.

Good luck

[melanie]

Welcome ipcassist

[VICHunter]

Two things that should be useful for you mate.

Where can I hunt in State Forest? fact sheet

DEPI interactive forestry maps

[ipcassist]

Thanks guys.

[VICHunter]

Any time mate.

Don't hesitate to ask if you come up with any more questions.

[AusC]

Any of the state forests North and North East of Melbourne. General rule the further the better.

[Seconds]

While I'm at it I should ask if there are any land owners in this area that may permit me to access their land

Worth the ask.

Nick is right that some won't welcome strangers onto their land to shoot which is perfectly understandable but approached in the right way some won't mind you cleaning up a few pests for them

[sbd3927]

Are we allowed to hunt P.E.S.T.S.?
Proponents of Ecological Sustainability Throughout the State?
Would probably do a lot more good for the environment than anything else. Then the rest of us can get on with things like sustainable logging, 4wd tracks both enabling both management and response to bushfires. Rather than National Parks that burn so hot they destroy the seedbank too.

Not to mention hunting, fishing or even taking the dog for a hike with you.

[scrolllock]

Not to mention hunting, fishing or even taking the dog for a hike with you.

The dog restrictions are a joke.

You can walk around the streets, parks, playgrounds, shops blah blah blah with your dogs no problem. People and cars galore.

Can't take them on leash to a national park though with no one for miles, nooooo

Dogs belong locked in small backyards, right?

[vexesus]

Yep, state forests are your only options for that here in VIC.