Hunting Opportunities
The Sunshine State offers a diversity of species to pursue including white-tailed deer, wild hogs, alligators, wild turkeys, waterfowl, dove, bobwhite quail and small game species such as gray squirrel, rabbits and raccoons.
Find statewide hunting season dates on private lands and other lands outside of the wildlife management area (WMA) system.
Public Hunting opportunities
Florida has one of the largest WMA systems in the country at over 6 million acres. Public hunting opportunities are available throughout the state.
To hunt on a WMA, you must possess a management area permit and a hunting license, (and often other permits depending on species and season), unless exempt. Limited entry/quota permits are required on WMAs during certain time periods. They can only be applied for during the scheduled application periods. The worksheets with the hunt choices and hunt dates are usually posted about two weeks before the permit application period opens.
During certain time periods, there are WMAs that allow hunting without a quota permit.
Locate a public hunting opportunity at a WMA based on species, season, location and more using WMA Finder.
Youth and Family Hunting Opportunities
The FWC offers several youth and family hunting opportunities including special youth seasons and mentored youth hunts. Find more information about:
- Youth Hunting Program of Florida
- Youth Waterfowl Hunting Days
- Youth Spring Turkey Hunt Weekends
- Youth Deer Hunt Weekends
On many WMAs, youth (age 15 and younger) supervised by an adult are exempt from quota permit requirements. Youth also may hunt areas that require a quota permit if accompanied by a quota permit holder who is 18 or older, provided the quota permit holder and youth share a single bag limit.
Outfitters and Guides
Find a list of outfitters and guides who operate in Florida.