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Flying Eagle Wildlife Management Area

Flying Eagle WMA

Managed in cooperation with the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Flying Eagle Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a mosaic of lakes, marshes, and swamps along five miles of the Withlacoochee River in southeastern Citrus County. More than 10,000 acres provide recreation opportunities and help recharge the Floridan aquifer. Hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and primitive camping are some of the recreational opportunities available. There are 13 miles of trails for bicycling, and 16 miles of wooded trails for hiking. Wildlife on the area include wild hog, white-tailed deer, gray squirrel, gopher tortoise, American alligator, swallow-tailed kites and wild turkey. Roads are scenic and pass through either dry, sandy, wooded hammocks or old pasture. Horseback riding is allowed on nine miles of trails. Children under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet when horseback riding on public lands. For more detailed information go to Nicole's Law. All horseback riders must have proof of current negative Coggins Test results for their horses when on state lands. Paddling is permitted in the creeks and marshes but you need a permit from the Southwest Florida Water Management District to use a vehicle to transport your boat to the closest water entry. This area is a site on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.

Add your bird observations to the Flying Eagle Preserve eBird Hotspot.

Rules Regarding Dogs

  • For purposes other than hunting, dogs are allowed during hunting seasons, but must be kept under physical restraint at all times. During non-hunting periods the possession of dogs shall only be as authorized by the Southwest Florida Water Management District. 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 with dogs is prohibited, except bird dogs or retrievers are allowed during special September duck and small game seasons. 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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