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Choctawhatchee River Wildlife Management Area

Choctawhatchee River Wildlife Management Area

Choctawhatchee

Managed in cooperation with the Northwest Florida Water Management District.

Choctawhatchee River WMA consists of over 57,000 acres along more than 30 miles of the river in Bay, Holmes, Walton and Washington counties. "Choctawhatchee" means river of the Choctaw, from one of the original Indian groups in the area. The river originates in Alabama and flows 170 miles to Choctawhatchee Bay, which empties into the Gulf of Mexico at Destin. The boundary of the area is highly variable so pay particular attention to maps and brochures of the WMA when you plan activities. Most of the area consists of floodplain forests with access primarily by boat and there are numerous boat landings along the river and along Holmes Creek. Vehicle access is available at the Gritney and Warehouse Landings and at Westville (Holmes County); the Bunker area (Walton County); Tilley Landing/Lost Lake, Bruce Creek and Dead River Landing (Walton County); and at Gum Creek and Cotton Landing on Holmes Creek (Washington County). Please call the District at 850-539-5999 for further information. Recreational opportunities include seasonal hunting, primitive camping, bank and river fishing, paddling, hiking and wildlife viewing. Fishing is outstanding on Holmes Creek, a major spring-fed tributary of the Choctawhatchee. Both Choctawhatchee River and Holmes Creek are one of Florida's state-designated paddling trails, flowing through miles of wilderness.

Add your bird observations to the Choctawhatchee River WMA eBird Hotspot.

Rules Regarding Dogs

  • For purposes other than hunting, dogs are allowed, but must be kept under physical restraint at all times. Dogs are prohibited in areas posted as "Closed to Public Access" by FWC administrative action. No person shall allow any dog to pursue or molest any wildlife during any period in which the taking of wildlife by the use of dogs is prohibited.
  • Hunting dogs may be taken onto the WMA after 8 a.m. the day before the opening of a season and shall be removed by 6 p.m. one day after the end of the season. Hunting with dogs, other than bird dogs or retrievers, is prohibited in the still hunt areas. Dogs are prohibited in areas posted as "Closed to Public Access" by FWC administrative action. No person shall allow any dog to pursue or molest any wildlife during any period in which the taking of wildlife by the use of dogs is prohibited. Dogs on leashes may be used for trailing wounded game.

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