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Hunting in Florida
Florida Hunting at Glance
Florida is a challenging and interesting hunting destination due to its tropical and subtropical climate. The most popular game animals hunted in Florida include white-tailed deer, wild hogs, turkey, quail, and dove, though Florida also has a variety of other exciting hunting options, including alligators and Burmese pythons.
There are also many different types of hunts allowed in Florida including still hunts, dog hunts, and drives. Still hunts are the most common and involve hunters hiding and waiting for game to come to them. Dog hunts are when hunters use dogs to flush out game so they can be shot. Drives are when a group of hunters work together to drive game towards another group of hunters who are waiting in ambush.
Wild boar may be hunted on private land with the landowner’s permission at any time of year without a bag limit or hunting license requirement.
Hogs may be hunted on public land during most hunting seasons, although a permit is required and there are other limitations.
Alligator management zones are established each year with appropriate take quotas; up to two alligators can be taken per permit. A license from the USFWS, the Department of Natural Resources in each state and a CITES permit are required.
Burmese pythons can be killed on private property at any time with the landowner’s permission, and no license is necessary. Pythons may also be taken from Wildlife Management Areas, Public Small Game Hunting Areas, and Wildlife and Environmental Areas where pythons are known to exist at any time of the year without a permit.
Florida ranks #37 in the nation for hunting license per capita with over 0.9% of the population classified as registered hunters.
Key Insights
- Wild boar may be hunted on private land in Florida at any time without a bag limit or hunting license requirement.
- Hogs may be hunted on public land during most hunting seasons with a permit.
- Alligators can be hunted in designated management zones with a license and permit from the USFWS and the Department of Natural Resources.
- Pythons can be hunted on private property or in designated areas without a permit.
- Florida has over 0.9% of its population classified as registered hunters and ranks #37 in the nation for hunting licenses per capita.
Table of Contents
Hunters (Based on Hunting Licenses)
| Population: | 21,538,187 |
|---|---|
| Hunters | 193,844 |
| Hunter % | 0.90% |
| Hunters Rank | 37 |
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 34,558,100 | ||
| Huntable Public | 5,884,000 | 17.03% | 15 |
| Private Land | 25,334,540 | 73.31% | 36 |
| Tribal Land | 154,200 | 0.45% | 18 |
Florida ranks #36 for the percentage of private land vs total acres and number 18 in terms of acres of tribal land.
Florida Hunting Seasons & Requirements
For the most accurate information on Florida Hunting Seasons, along with the state’s requirements for tag and bag limits, it’s a good idea to check with the Florida DNR. We’ve provided their contact information below, along with links to helpful resources, including licensing.
Florida DNR
620 S. Meridian St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
- (850) 488-4676
Popular Game to Hunt in Florida
Florida is a great place to hunt due to the tropical and subtropical climate. White-tailed deer and wild hogs are the most commonly hunted species, but Florida also offers a number of unique hunting opportunities, including alligators, Burmese pythons, and Osceola turkeys.
Small Game Hunting in Florida
Though many people think of Florida as a place where they can only hunt large game, such as deer or hogs, there are actually a variety of small game animals that are popular among hunters in the state. Perhaps the most common small game animal hunted in Florida is the squirrel. These furry creatures can be found in forests throughout the state, and provide a delicious meal for those who are lucky enough to take one down. Rabbits are another popular target for hunters, and can be found in both urban and rural areas. For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, hogs are an increasingly popular choice. These large animals require significant skill to take down, but the reward is worth it for many hunters. Finally, turkey hunting has become increasingly popular in recent years, as these birds provide a substantial amount of meat. No matter what type of small game you’re looking to hunt, you’re sure to find it in Florida.
Big Game Hunting in Florida
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the most popular big game animals to hunt in Florida are white-tailed deer, Florida black bear, and mule deer. Florida is home to a large population of white-tailed deer, making it a popular destination for hunters. Wild hogs are also a common sight in Florida, and they can be hunted year-round. Florida black bears are another popular target for hunters, and they can be found in all of the state’s 67 counties. Mule deer are not as common as the other animals on this list, but they can be found in some parts of Florida.
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Where are the Best Areas to Hunt in Florida
Florida offers great hunting opportunities across the state, both on public and private land. We’ve included some of the best areas for public hunting below and as we have access we’ll be adding more private land too.
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We’re working with landowners all across Florida to provide private land access for more activities. Add your information below to stay up to date.
Popular Public Hunting Land in Florida
Ocala National Forest is the largest forest in the state, and it’s home to deer, hogs, bears, and turkeys. Apalachicola National Forest is located in the Panhandle and is known for its large population of white-tailed deer. Seminole State Forest is located in Central Florida and offers opportunities to hunt deer, hogs, and turkey. Lake Wales Ridge State Forest is located in Central Florida and is home to deer, hogs, armadillos, and quail. Myakka River State Park is located in Southwest Florida and offers opportunities to hunt deer, hogs, turkey, and dove.
1. Ocala National Forest
2. Apalachicola National Forest
3. Seminole State Forest
4. Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
5. Myakka River State Park
Hunting Private Land in Florida
Since the majority of Florida is private land getting access for hunting can be very appealing. When you hunt private land, it’s not only less crowded, the animals also tend to be less skittish and this means you’ll have a better day out in the field. Traditionally, accessing private land for hunting has been complicated and expensive. You either needed to join a club, hire a guide, or start knocking on doors.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying this for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts of all types. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some options great below.