The Game Management Authority has amended the daily bag limit for ducks this duck hunting season after collecting data.
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The aerial survey found an estimated total population of almost 2.5 million game ducks, giving a more detailed understanding of the number of game ducks in the state. This number is much higher than previous methodologies have indicated and means that the sustainable harvest level can be increased.
The bag limit will be increased from two to five game ducks per day.
J and A Shooting Supplies Bill Jorgensen said it was good news for hunters and for tourism in the region.
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"It's a great achievement for all hunters. At the end of the day it should have that in the first place," Mr Jorgensen said.
Mr Jorgensen said the bag limit changes had increased excitement for the season, which will have a flow-on effect in the community.
"It's put a bit of excitement in people again," he said.
"People will now travel to the Wimmera and surrounding areas.
"That will support local businesses and keep the tradition alive."
The ban on teal ducks was also lifted.
"They have surveyed over 650 water bodies, with satellite imaging, and helicopters to get the numbers," Mr Jorgensen said.
"There are over 2.5 million birds.
"Unfortunately, they've done this now where half the birds have already left."
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Mr Jorgensen said Taylors Lake is a good spot for duck hunting as well as Toolondo.
"Toolondo is very low on water at the moment," he advised.
Though some are disappointed with the changes.
"This helicopter survey is not an accurate count and hardly a basis for making snap decisions involving increased killing of our native wildlife. Notwithstanding GMA have still conducted no analysis of the impact of shooting to threatened species, nor any social/economic impact studies on anyone other than a small groups of shooters," a Regional Victorians Opposed to Duck Shooting's spokesperson said.
"This latest announcement is just another example of what many believe is GMA's complete incompetence. These are not evidence-based decisions, but appear entirely based on political pressure. Many would agree shooters seem to be running this state."
The 2021 season will start on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, and will last 20 days, closing 30 minutes after sunset on Monday, June 14, 2021.
Hunting start times will be delayed until 8.00 am for the first five days of the season from Wednesday, May 26 to Sunday, May 30.
As in previous years, the GMA will continue to monitor the conditions leading up to and during the season. Where warranted, wetlands may be closed to hunting to protect concentrations of rare, threatened species.
The GMA and partner agencies, including Victoria Police, will be patrolling public lands and private properties to ensure compliance with hunting, animal welfare and public safety laws.
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