T.M. Goodwin - Things to Do
Explore well-managed wetlands and enjoy hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. The area is closed to other visitors when hunts are in progress.
Hunting
T. M Goodwin Waterfowl Management Area is one of the state’s premiere hunting areas for ducks, coots and snipe. A Persons with Disabilities (PWD) blind is available with a PWD Duck Blind Qualifying Card. After obtaining a qualifying card, hunters wishing to utilize the blind may reserve it by calling the T.M. Goodwin office at 10 am on the Wednesday prior to their hunt at 321-726-2862. Check the regulations summary brochure and hunt calendar before you visit.
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
Bank fishing is available year-round and Goodwin Lake is open to boats two days per week, from 9 am to 4 pm. Improved and unimproved boat ramps are available. For details, consult the regulations summary brochure. Call 352-732-1225 for permit information. Appropriate fishing licenses and permits are required.
Wildlife Viewing
Look for wildlife along levees that surround the impoundments and from the three-tier tower that provides panoramic views at this Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail site. Expect to see migratory waterfowl and shorebirds, hawks and other raptors, mottled ducks, a variety of wading birds and white-tailed deer, otters, alligators and bobcats. Visit the Wildlife page for more details.
Hiking, Biking & Horseback Riding
Miles of levee roads are open for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding, providing good views of the impoundments, wildlife and seasonal wildflowers. Note that horses are prohibited on L-75 and L-74-North. Eight miles of the Three Forks Conservation Area trail (St. Johns River Water Management District) follow the western exterior levee of the Broadmoor Marsh Unit and the eastern exterior levee of the Goodwin Unit.
Paddling and Boating
Enjoy paddling on Goodwin Lake year-round and in the impoundments in the fall and winter when water levels are higher. Boat ramps provide access for canoes, kayaks and small boats with motors less than 40 hp. For details, consult the regulations summary brochure.