Lake Panasoffkee Wildlife Management Area
Managed in cooperation with the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
Lake Panasoffkee Wildlife Management Area lies along the eastern shore of Lake Panasoffkee, in north central Sumter County. This nearly 9,000-acre area was acquired between 1990 and 1997 to preserve the lake and its associated floodplain forests. Four spring-fed creeks enter the lake. Pinelands and oak scrub are found at higher elevations. The WMA is open to public access year-round, except during special-opportunity archery and spring turkey seasons. During non-hunting periods, vehicle access is allowed only on Jones Creek Trail to the horse stable facility located near the campground.
Hunting
For hunting seasons and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Lake Panasoffkee WMA.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted year-round. A Florida fishing license is required and can be purchased at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
Camping
For information about camping, see the regulations summary brochure for Lake Panasoffkee WMA and the SFWMD’s webpage for Lake Panasoffkee.
Recreation
The area offers over 8 miles of shared trails for biking, along with an additional 18 miles open for horseback riding and hiking. Visitors can enjoy a picnic under open pavilions or spend time on the water paddling and boating on Lake Panasoffkee, which is accessible from a nearby county boat ramp.
Check the regulations summary brochure for equestrian access during seasonal hunts.
Wildlife
Wild turkeys, wild hogs, white-tailed deer, armadillos, hawks, turtles and wading birds are commonly seen. On the loop trail through the open pasture kestrels, meadowlarks and killdeer may be observed. The spur to Little Jones Creek is a good spot to hear and observe warblers.
Lake Panasoffkee WMA is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
Add your bird observations to the Lake Panasoffkee WMA eBird Hotspot.
More Information
For an area map, hunting seasons, permits, fees, rules regarding dogs and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Lake Panasoffkee WMA.