As the crisp autumn air rolls in, members of the Illawarra Hunting Club and hunters across New South Wales and Australia gear up for one of the most exciting events in the hunting calendar—the Fallow Deer Rut. Typically peaking in early to mid-April, the rutting season sees dominant bucks emerge from the shadows, aggressively competing for does, making it the prime time to secure a trophy deer. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the pursuit, here’s what you need to know about the 2025 Fallow Deer Rut and how to maximise your chances of success.

Understanding the Rut

The rut is the period when Fallow bucks become highly vocal and territorial. Their deep, grunting calls—known as 'croaks'—can be heard echoing through the forests, a telltale sign that the competition for breeding rights is in full swing. This heightened activity presents an excellent opportunity for hunters to locate and intercept dominant bucks.

Where to Find Fallow Bucks

Fallow deer are widespread in Australia, with strong populations in New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania. Key locations include:

• State forests and private properties in NSW: Areas like Oberon, the Southern Highlands, the Snowy Mountains and the Hunter Valley are known hotspots for fallow deer.

• Victoria’s high country: Regions such as the Hume, Gippsland and the Grampians Region hold healthy deer numbers.

• Tasmania: While more challenging to access, Tasmania’s deer hunting opportunities are growing in popularity.

Hunting Strategies for the Rut

1. Listen for the Croaks

During the rut, bucks vocalise heavily to assert dominance and attract does. If you hear deep, guttural croaking in the distance, it’s a strong indication that a buck is nearby. Move in cautiously with the wind in your favour.

2. Use Calls and Rattling

Mimicking buck croaks and antler rattling can trigger aggressive responses from territorial males, luring them into range. However, use these tactics sparingly to avoid spooking the herd.

3. Spot and Stalk

For hunters who prefer an active approach, glassing open clearings and moving strategically through the terrain can yield excellent results. Keep your eyes peeled for movement and be prepared for quick shots.

Essential Gear for the Fallow Rut

• Optics: A quality pair of binoculars and a spotting scope will help you locate deer from a distance.

• Camouflage and Scent Control: Fallow deer have keen eyesight and a strong sense of smell. Use camouflage suited to your terrain and minimise human scent.

• Rifle and Ammunition: Popular calibres for Fallow deer include .243, .270, and .308. Ensure your rifle is zeroed in and ready for action.

• Game Calls: A grunt tube or rattling antlers can give you an edge in attracting bucks.

• Navigation and Safety Gear: GPS, maps, and first-aid kits are essential for remote hunting locations.

Conservation and Ethical Hunting

As hunters, it’s crucial to respect ethical hunting practices, ensuring clean, humane shots and adhering to legal requirements. With ongoing discussions about deer management in Australia, responsible hunting contributes to sustainable wildlife populations and helps maintain healthy ecosystems.

Upcoming Club Hunt – 28th to 30th March

Looking ahead, our next Illawarra Hunting Club event is a club hunt at Vulcan State Forest from March 28th to 30th. While both Vulcan and neighbouring Gurnang State Forests are currently fully booked, hunters should keep an eye on the DPI website for any last-minute vacancies.

During this hunt, we will be putting many of the strategies discussed above into practice, from listening for croaks to using spot-and-stalk techniques in prime deer territory. With the rut just around the corner, we hope to get an early jump on the action and, with a bit of luck, bag a trophy stag. Whether you're looking to test your skills or simply enjoy the camaraderie of the hunt, this trip promises to be an exciting one.

Final Thoughts

The Fallow Deer Rut is a thrilling time for hunters, offering some of the best opportunities to harvest a mature buck. Preparation, patience, and understanding deer behaviour are key to a successful hunt. Whether you're heading out solo or with a group, make the most of this incredible season and enjoy the challenge that the rut brings.

Photos: Congratulations to young Hayden for these quality Stags.