What is the most productive NSW State Forest for hunting?

Bondi, Gurnang, Pillaga, The Vulcan?

I am asked often what is the best state forest to hunt. Obviously, this is subjective so I like to point out some forests are more productive than others and that all NSW state forests hold game.

So far in my South East NSW state forest hunts, Glenbog has been the most productive forest. It holds large numbers of Fallow Deer, some Red Deer and Pigs. I believe it would hold Sambar Deer in the native forests but have yet to go looking. Why wouldn’t there be Sambar? Sambar are present in large numbers just south of Glenbog.

Goats have been reported in the DPI monthly hunt reports at Glenbog. I don’t believe this to be correct as I too once believed I had seen a Goat that turned out to be a white Fallow Deer.

I was hunting in my favourite Glenbog spot, not long after I had started hunting, I spied what I thought was a Goat. I stalked in and shot the “Goat” at 30m. As a novice at the time, I wasn’t aware that Fallow Deer come in white. It is entirely reasonable that a novice seen a white Deer and would report it as a goat.

I have seen Deer on every single trip to Glenbog – whether I hit the open draws or walk through the forest – they are always there in good numbers (I refer Fallow deer as weeds).

So what makes Glenbog State Forest so productive for hunting?

I have been told there used to be a deer farm along the edge of Glenbog and large amounts of deer escaped, allowing a wild population to flourish. Glenbog is sandwiched by national park on the eastern border and private farmland on the west. There are large tracks of swamp and open native grassland in the national park which provides large amounts of feed. National parks does undertake pest control but in my opinion does not put a dent in the population. The feral deer and pigs are provided with a somewhat protected safe haven in the national parks.

Add in the surrounding farmland with improved pastures, the deer population is booming with a moderate pig population.

Glenbog is the perfect place for new hunters as it offers plenty of game in easily accessible areas. It’s not too hilly and has some great camping spots. This is the forest I take new hunters – they will see a deer and have a pretty good chance of shooting it. This is the place to start hunting to build your confidence.

Some tips for hunting Glenbog State Forest

• During the start of the deer season, Glenbog books out. After the rut, weekdays are generally not booked but weekends tend to bookout for the entire deer season. Try and book early.
• Glenbog is on the Brown Mountain and it gets very cold. I have been there in -10 so make sure you layer up.
• Glenbog lives up to its name. There are lots of swampy and bog areas. In the winter you need to have water proof boots to keep your feet warm.
• One of the few NSW state forests that allow for long range shots. There are some areas where you can shoot deer at over 200m. Know your skill level and only shot at distances you know you can hit.
• If you don’t want to camp in the cold, the nearest town is Nimmitabel. Plenty of cheap accommodation and is only 15 minutes away.
• Read your permission note – NSW Forestry tends to close the entire forest north of the highway during the week.

Poachers prowl this forest. I had 2 poachers come out of the bush as I was lining up a deer. Not much you can do about them – just don’t expect them to wear orange.

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