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Jumper Creek Wildlife Management Area

Jumper Creek WMA

Managed in cooperation with the Florida Forest Service.

Jumper Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a 10,000-plus-acre tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest. It is located along the east side of the Withlacoochee River in western Sumter County, south of Lake Panasoffkee. Most of this area is floodplain forest and oak-cabbage palm hammock. Jumper Creek, a blackwater creek that flows north into the Withlacoochee River, runs through the center of the area. Recreational opportunities include hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, primitive camping, biking, and hiking on two loop trails. There are excellent paddling opportunities on the Withlacoochee River. One can access the area by water from a boat ramp at 470 and the Panasoffkee Outlet River, which is just on the north side of the WMA. Jumper Creek WMA is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and excellent opportunities exist to view limpkins at the 470 bridge. Additionally, wild hogs, swallow-tailed kite, white-tailed deer, raccoon and wild turkey are a few of the species that can be seen on the area.

Add your bird observations to the Jumper Creek 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 is prohibited, except waterfowl retrievers are allowed during the special September duck season, and bird dogs or waterfowl retrievers are allowed during the small game season. 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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