Big Bend - Things to Do

Hunting

For many years, local people have hunted on the lands now constituting the Big Bend WMA. Hunting and fishing continue to be the most popular recreational activities on the area. Biologists manage habitats to provide high-quality forage for dove, quail, deer and wild turkey as well as for nongame wildlife. Each unit of Big Bend WMA offers unique hunting opportunities, from duck hunting to deer, hog and turkey hunts. Consult the regulations summary brochures for the Hickory Mound, Jena, Snipe Island, Spring Creek and Tide Swamp units of Big Bend WMA. Hunt calendars for each of the units are available on the Planning Your Visit page.

If you see a sick or abnormally thin deer or deer dead of unknown causes, please report its location to the CWD hotline, (866) CWD-WATCH (293-9282).

Fishing

Creeks, streams and small ponds throughout Big Bend WMA support many species of game fish including Florida bass, catfish and several species of sunfish. Enjoy crabbing and fishing platforms at several units. All Big Bend units except Snipe Island have boat ramps providing access to the Gulf for saltwater anglers. Spotted sea trout are abundant in March and April and October and November. Reference the Florida Boat Ramp Finder to locate boat ramps in the area. Carry appropriate licenses and permits. Note that some ramps are only accessible at high tide and are not suitable for larger boats.

Wildlife Viewing

Big Bend WMA features abundant wildlife and unique viewing opportunities and several spots within the Hickory Mound and Tide Swamp units are highlighted on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. These include viewing towers at coastal vantage points, old logging trams through hardwood swamps and scenic vistas of uplands and wetlands along area roads. Up to 100 species of butterflies may be found here, sipping nectar from abundant roadside wildflowers. Visit the Wildlife page for more information about the area's wildlife.

Hiking, Biking, and Horseback Riding

Within Big Bend, hikers, bicyclists and equestrians may explore over 300 miles of roads. Old logging trams are ideal places for hikers, birders and photographers. Marked hiking trails at Tide Swamp include Hagen's Cove and Dallus Creek. Additionally, there are several marked trails across Snipe Island. Wear orange vests or hats during hunting seasons. Horseback riding is allowed year-round on named and numbered roads on all units. Download the Tide Swamp Unit trail map.

Camping

Camping is prohibited with the exception of seven designated island sites on the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail that are reserved for permitted sea kayakers only. Camping permits and online reservations are required.

Paddling

Sea kayakers enjoy vistas of seemingly endless salt marsh and cabbage palm hammocks along the state-designated Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. The trail makes it easy to design individualized trips, which may include multi-day excursions with overnight camping at seven designated sites (see Camping). Or, enjoy short explorations by launching boats and paddle craft from numerous boat ramps. Note that some ramps are only accessible at high tide; check tide tables.

Scenic Driving

Experience Big Bend’s habitat variety with a drive along unpaved roads. Check the vehicle use regulations in the regulations summary brochures for each unit you wish to visit. During hunting seasons, avoid early morning and evening touring. View the Tide Swamp Unit trail map for driving tour locations.