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20 Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (NSW) Inc. Andy's Hunting Guide Some of us have access to large properties with abundant game animals, no competition from other hunters and little to upset the game. But instead of thousands of acres to hunt, picture yourself having access to only 300 acres. It could be three 100 acre blocks, arranged in a patchwork quilt. These opportunities often arise but don't appeal to all hunters. Here are some hints if you're keen. When asked to target troublesome animals you need to be realistic with the landowner. There are no guarantees with urban hunting due to the associated challenges, such as small block sizes, wind conditions and boundary or vegetation corridors. You need to have patience. Seek permission from as many properties as possible, as there is a good chance they are all experiencing the same problems from the same animals. If you're unsuccessful, ask if you can recover or despatch an animal if it crosses the boundary. The wind can ruin your day so you need to gain intimate knowledge of the weather in the area and be prepared to call off some hunting events. Early starts may be necessary to reach your prepared hunting site before first light. You need to be in position early to let the area settle. Vegetation corridors occur along most fence lines and game use these to travel. Without permission on both sides of the fence, you may have to declare these areas no-shoot zones. Without permission you can't pursue or despatch an animal. Safe fall zones for projectiles are essential so an elevated shooting position helps avoid the need to shoot towards another property. Ensure that the surface is soft earth, not rock. Smaller rounds and shooting frangible projectiles can be useful, but shot placement is critical. You may have to pass up many opportunities as a result. If there's a hill face that will catch your projectile, you can consider a more powerful round. I restrict my shots with a powerful round to full length body shots. Disturbing stock animals, in particular horses, is also a consideration, as they can cause themselves injury if startled. Good communication with the owners is advised, and shifting stock may be required. The landowner determines which is the priority animal and you're obliged to deal with these first. Some animals have individual bad habits. I recently shot a buck that had been destroying fences around a deer farm for three years, doing great damage. He is a 'trophy' deer in my opinion, not because of his headgear but because of the difficulties I faced hunting him. See you in the bush. Cheers, Andy Mallen Urban hunting