Florida Hunting

Florida hunting

Discover essential hunting resources for Florida, including state regulations, public hunting areas, licensed outfitters, and tips for a successful hunt in the Sunshine State.

Florida Hunting Regulations

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) provides an annual Hunting Handbook, outlining rules, bag limits, and legal methods for taking game species. Stay updated to ensure compliance with state hunting laws.

2025-2026 Florida Hunting Seasons

Prepare for your next hunt with this detailed guide to the 2025-2026 Florida hunting seasons. Dates are based on projections from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and may be subject to change. Visit the official FWC website for the latest updates and regulations.

Deer Hunting Seasons

  • Zone A (Archery): July 26 – August 24, 2025
  • Zone A (Crossbow): July 26 – August 29, 2025
  • Zone A (Muzzleloading Gun): August 30 – September 12, 2025
  • Zone A (General Gun): September 13 – October 12, 2025 & November 22, 2025 – February 15, 2026
  • Zone B (Archery): October 18 – November 16, 2025
  • Zone B (Crossbow): October 18 – November 21, 2025
  • Zone B (Muzzleloading Gun): November 22 – December 5, 2025
  • Zone B (General Gun): December 6, 2025 – February 15, 2026
  • Zone C (Archery): September 13 – October 12, 2025
  • Zone C (Crossbow): September 13 – October 17, 2025
  • Zone C (Muzzleloading Gun): October 18 – October 31, 2025
  • Zone C (General Gun): November 1, 2025 – January 25, 2026
  • Zone D (Archery): October 25 – November 23, 2025
  • Zone D (Crossbow): October 25 – November 28, 2025
  • Zone D (Muzzleloading Gun): November 29 – December 12, 2025
  • Zone D (General Gun): December 13, 2025 – February 22, 2026
  • Youth Deer Hunt (All Zones): September 6 – September 7, 2025

Turkey Hunting Seasons

  • Zone A (Fall): October 6 – October 19, 2025 & November 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  • Zone B & C (Fall): December 6, 2025 – February 1, 2026
  • Zone D (Fall): November 8 – November 21, 2025
  • South of SR 70 (Spring): March 7 – April 12, 2026
  • North of SR 70 (Spring): March 21 – April 26, 2026
  • Youth Turkey Hunt: February 28 – March 1, 2026 (South) & March 14 – March 15, 2026 (North)

Alligator Hunting Seasons

  • Statewide Harvest: August 15 – November 1, 2025 (Permit required)
  • Special-Use Harvest: August 15 – December 31, 2025 (Permit required)

Small Game Seasons

  • Gray Squirrel: Year-round (Statewide)
  • Rabbit: Year-round (Statewide)
  • Quail: November 8, 2025 – March 1, 2026
  • Raccoon/Opossum/Skunk/Nutria/Beaver: Year-round (Statewide)

Furbearer Seasons

  • Bobcat: December 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026
  • Coyote: Year-round (Statewide)
  • Otter: December 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026
  • Trapping: December 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026

Migratory Bird Seasons (Dove)

  • First Phase: September 27 – October 19, 2025
  • Second Phase: November 15 – November 30, 2025
  • Third Phase: December 13, 2025 – January 11, 2026

Waterfowl Seasons (Early Seasons)

  • Early Teal: September 20 – September 28, 2025
  • Youth Waterfowl: February 7 – February 8, 2026

Note: Dates are projected based on historical trends and FWC schedules as of April 25, 2025. Some seasons (e.g., late waterfowl, alligator) require permits or are zone-specific. Always verify exact dates, bag limits, and regulations on the FWC website.

Public and Private Hunting Lands

Public Hunting Lands

Florida boasts a vast network of public hunting areas, including over 6 million acres of Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). Popular WMAs include:

  • Green Swamp WMA
  • Big Cypress WMA
  • Apalachicola WMA

Each WMA has unique rules, quotas, and species availability. Use the WMA Finder for detailed maps and regulations.

Private Land Access

Private lands in Florida offer additional hunting opportunities, including year-round hunting for species like wild hogs. Landowners may require permission or leasing agreements for access.

Hunting Licenses and Permits

Florida hunters must have the appropriate licenses and permits. Purchase licenses online through the GoOutdoorsFlorida portal. Common licenses include:

  • Resident and non-resident hunting licenses
  • Wildlife Management Area (WMA) permits
  • Special permits for species like deer, turkey, and waterfowl

Outfitters and Hunting Guides

Florida is home to numerous licensed outfitters offering guided hunts for species like deer, wild turkey, and alligators. Verify that your chosen guide is properly licensed through the FWC.

Gear Recommendations for Florida Hunts

Florida’s diverse habitats, from swamps to pine forests, require specific gear:

  • Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics for the hot and humid climate; camo patterns for the terrain.
  • Footwear: Waterproof and snake-proof boots are essential for swampy areas.
  • Hunting Equipment: Game calls and decoys for turkey and waterfowl; tree stands or blinds for deer.

Conservation and Ethical Hunting

Support Florida’s conservation efforts by adhering to ethical hunting practices and participating in programs like the Florida Wildlife Legacy Initiative. Hunting license fees help fund habitat restoration and wildlife management programs.

Hunting Tips for Florida

Boost your chances of success with these tips:

  • Scout your chosen WMA or private land early to identify game activity.
  • Stay alert for changing weather conditions, especially during hurricane season.
  • Use appropriate baiting techniques where legal, especially for species like hogs.

Plan Your Next Florida Hunt

From deer and turkey to alligator and waterfowl, Florida offers hunting opportunities for every enthusiast. Start planning your hunt today by exploring public lands, purchasing your license, and gearing up for the season!