Florida is a hunter’s paradise, with over 6 million acres of public land and year-round opportunities like wild hog hunting. But the state’s unique rules and season structures can catch newcomers off guard. This guide breaks down what you need to know to hunt legally and responsibly in Florida — from licenses and permits to bag limits, season dates, safety requirements, and land use rules.

Getting Your Florida Hunting License and Permits

Who Needs a License

Anyone age 16 or older, resident or not, must have a Florida hunting license to hunt wildlife. Youths under 16 can hunt under adult supervision without a permit.

License Types:

• Resident Annual License: $17 — covers general game but not deer, turkey, or waterfowl permits.
• Non-Resident Annual License: $151.50
• Non-Resident 10-Day License: $46.50 (doesn’t cover turkey unless you add a permit)
• Youth License (8–15): Optional $17 — not required, but allows solo hunting at 16.
• 5-Year & Lifetime Licenses: Available for resident;, fees vary by age.

Required Add-Ons (Permits):

• Deer Permit: $5 (residents)
• Turkey Permit: $10 (residents), $125 (non-residents)
• Waterfowl Permit: $5 + $29 federal Duck Stamp
• Archery / Muzzleloader Permits: $5 each
• Management Area Permit (WMA): $26.50 — required for hunting public lands
• Alligator Permit: Lottery-based, several hundred dollars if selected

License Exemptions:

• Florida Residents: Under 16, over 65, or active-duty military on leave (30 days or less)
• Hunting Own Property: Residents hunting their homestead (or spouse/child’s) in-county don’t need a license, but must follow seasons and bag limits.
• Disabled Residents: Can apply for a free disability hunting/fishing license

Proof Required: Always carry ID or documentation showing your exemption (age, military orders, etc.).

Hunter Safety Course:
If born on or after June 1, 1975, you must complete a hunter safety course before purchasing a license. The course covers safety, ethics, and regulations, and can be taken online with a required field day.

Apprentice License Option:
Florida offers a one-year exemption for new hunters who want to try hunting under supervision before completing the safety course. It’s a one-time option.

Florida Hunting Seasons, Zones, and Bag Limits

Florida’s hunting calendar is complex due to its four-zone system. Each zone has unique season dates based on local geography and deer rut timing. Understanding your zone is critical for staying compliant.

Florida’s Hunting Zones

• Zone A – South Florida: Earliest start, archery opens late July–early August.
• Zone B – Central peninsula: Latest seasons, general gun runs into February.
• Zone C – Central/north Florida: Archery in September, general gun season in January.
• Zone D – Panhandle: Archery in October, general gun runs through February.

Each zone has specific dates for archery, crossbow, muzzleloader, and general gun seasons. Always consult the latest FWC season charts for your location.

Major Species Seasons

Deer Season:

• Archery: Earliest start; antlerless deer allowed in archery only.
• Muzzleloader: Short 1–2 week season after archery.
• General Gun: Main season; dates vary by zone.
• Youth Weekend: One weekend per zone before general gun season; allows mentored hunting, often with either-sex harvest.

Antler Point Regulations may apply — some zones require a buck to have 3 points on one side or a minimum beam length.

Turkey Season:

• Fall: Limited zones and dates.
• Spring: Gobbler-only season, begins early March in the south and mid-March elsewhere. Ends in April.
  • On WMAs, turkey hunting often ends at 1 p.m.
  • No hunting near feeders with visible bait (100-yard rule applies).

Small Game (e.g., squirrel, rabbit, quail):

• Seasons typically run from October to March.
• Daily bag limits: 12 of each species.

Waterfowl & Migratory Birds:

• Federal frameworks apply.
• Dove: Split into three phases from September to January.
• Duck: Opens in late November and ends in January.
  • Teal season is in September.
  • Requires state permit, HIP registration, and federal Duck Stamp.

Alligator:

• Mid-August to early November by permit only.
• Limited-entry lottery required.

Wild Hogs:

• Private Land: No license, no season, no bag limit — year-round hunting allowed.
• Public Land: Only during designated WMA seasons and with appropriate permits.

Bear:

• No open season. Bear hunting has been suspended since 2015.

Bag Limits (Statewide)

Deer:

• Annual limit: 5 total (max two antlerless).
• Daily limit: 2.
• Possession limit: 4.
• Local WMA rules may impose stricter limits.

Turkey:

• 2 gobblers per spring season (1/day).
• Up to 2 were allowed in the fall.
• Max of 4 per year (2 spring, 2 fall).

Small Game:

• Squirrel, rabbit, quail: 12/day.
• Possession limits typically double daily.
• Dove: 15/day under federal rules.
• Ducks: Varies by species — consult waterfowl regulations.
• Hogs (Private Land): Unlimited.
• Hogs (WMAs): May be limited by area rules.

WMA regulations override statewide rules — always check the brochure for the area you’re hunting. Some WMAs allow only 1–2 deer per season, even if the state limit is 5.

Legal Methods of Take and Safety Rules

Having the proper license and hunting at the right time is essential, but you must also follow Florida’s strict rules on weapons, baiting, dog use, and safety gear.

Legal Weapons and Equipment

Firearms:

• Rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders, and guns are legal for game.
• No caliber restrictions, but .243+ is standard for deer.
• Muzzleloaders: ≥.30 cal (single bullet) or 20-gauge+ for buckshot.

Air Guns:

• PCP air rifles: Legal for deer (≥.30 cal) and turkey (≥.20 cal).
• Airbows are treated like crossbows and allowed in certain seasons.

Archery Equipment:

• Longbows, recurves, and compounds are legal.
• Broadheads must be ≥7/8″ wide with two sharpened edges.
• Crossbows are allowed during crossbow and general seasons (not archery-only unless exempted).

Shotguns:

• Common for turkey and waterfowl.
• Migratory bird shotguns must be limited to 3 shells.
• Slugs or buckshot may be used for deer in some areas.

Handguns:

• Legal during the general gun season. Popular calibers: .44 Mag, 10mm, etc.

Prohibited:

• Fully automatic firearms.
• Centerfire rifles/pistols for migratory birds (shotguns only).

Dogs in Hunting

Allowed:

• Dogs may be used for deer, small game, and waterfowl.
• Must wear a collar with owner info.
• “Deer Dog Registration” is required for private land use.

Restrictions:

• No dogs during archery or muzzleloader deer seasons (except trailing wounded game).
• No dogs are allowed for turkey hunting.
• Written landowner permission is required for dogs on private land.

Baiting and Feeders

Private Land:

• Legal to hunt near feeders if feed has been present for≥6 months.
• Not allowed for turkeys — must be 100 yards away and no feed present for 10+ days.

Public Land (WMAs):

• No baiting allowed.
• Some CWD zones restrict all feeding year-round.

Hunter Orange Requirement

Required on public land during deer gun season:

• Minimum 500 sq. inches of blaze orange on the upper body and head.
• Not required on private land or during archery-only or turkey season.
• Consider wearing orange when moving, even during spring turkey hunts.

Shooting Hours

• General Game: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.
• Waterfowl: Until official sunset only.
• Wild Hogs on Private Land: Legal at night.
• Public Land: No night hunting unless specified.

General Safety & Conduct

• No shooting from roads, vehicles, or vessels.
• Spotlighting is illegal (except for hogs on private land with caution).
• Do not hunt protected species (e.g., panthers, bears).
• No alcohol while hunting — it can lead to criminal charges.
• ATVs/UTVs are allowed on private land and some WMAs (check rules).
• Use tree stands safely (harness recommended).
• Do not trespass — armed trespass is a felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison.

Hunting on Public vs. Private Land in Florida

Florida offers over 6 million acres of public hunting land, but the rules differ significantly from those on private property. Understanding these differences can keep you legal and improve your chances of a successful hunt.

Public Land – Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)

• Permit Required: You must have a valid Management Area Permit to hunt on any WMA.
• Quota Hunts: Many WMAs require you to apply for quota permits in advance, especially for high-demand hunts like deer and turkey.
• Special Hunts: Some WMAs offer limited-entry or special opportunity hunts (e.g., alligator, dove, youth hunts).
• Season Dates Differ: WMAs often have their calendars that override statewide seasons. Always check the area-specific brochure.
• Check-In Requirements: Some areas require sign-in/out or check station use for harvested game.
• Primitive Conditions: Expect minimal amenities — some areas require 4×4 vehicles, and access may be restricted to certain hours or days.
• Increased Pressure: Public land sees more hunters. Blaze orange is mandatory during deer gun seasons for safety.

Always read the WMA-specific brochure before hunting. It lists allowed species, bag limits, access rules, and more.

Private Land

• More Flexibility: No quota permits needed. You hunt during general statewide seasons.
• Year-Round Hog Hunting: No license or bag limit for wild hogs on private land.
• Baiting Allowed: Legal with 6-month rule (not for turkeys).
• No Blaze Orange Required: But still recommended for safety, especially near property lines.
• Landowner Control: Permission is required to hunt land you don’t own. Always get it in writing.
• Legal Protections: Trespassing with a firearm is a felony in Florida.

Additional Access Options

• Walk-In Areas & Private Land Leases: Some private lands are open to public hunting through special FWC programs — often via lottery or guided access.
• Youth Hunt Program: Certain ranches host supervised youth-only hunts in partnership with FWC.

Example Comparison

• Private Land: You can bowhunt deer from a tree stand in September, set up a feeder (if maintained year-round), or hunt hogs in July — no check-in required.
• WMA: You may need a quota permit, can’t use feeders, must follow tighter access rules, and often have to check game at a station.

Always know property boundaries, especially if tracking wounded game. Never cross fences without permission. Respecting landowner rights maintains access and avoids legal trouble.

Up next: We’ll cover what happens after a successful hunt, including how to log and report your harvest in Florida.

Harvest Reporting and Tagging Requirements

In Florida, harvesting big game like deer or turkey comes with mandatory reporting rules. Logging your harvest helps the FWC monitor wildlife populations and enforce bag limits.

What Must Be Reported

• Required: All deer and wild turkey must be logged and reported within 24 hours of harvest.
• Not Required: No reporting for wild hogs, small game, or migratory birds.

Step-by-Step: How to Report a Harvest

1. Log It Immediately:
   Before moving the animal from the harvest site, write it down on a harvest log — either the paper version from the handbook or digitally in the Fish|Hunt Florida app.
2. Report Within 24 Hours (or sooner if processing):
   Use one of three methods:
   • Fish|Hunt Florida App (quickest and easiest)
   • GoOutdoorsFlorida.com
   • Phone: 1-888-HUNT-FLORIDA
3. Get a Confirmation Number:
   You’ll receive a unique number after reporting — write this on your log or keep it tied to the carcass.
4. Before Butchering or Leaving the State:
   Reporting must be done before dropping off at a processor/taxidermist or transporting out of Florida.

Special Cases

• WMAs with Check Stations:
  If the WMA requires a check station visit, you must still complete the statewide harvest report.
• Processors and Taxidermists:
  Label your animal/meat with your name, address, and confirmation number. Some businesses have their log systems, but they must still be traceable to you.

Evidence of Sex

Florida doesn’t use physical tags, but you must retain evidence of sex:

• Deer: Keep the head (with antlers if a buck) attached until you reach home/camp.
• Turkey: Keep the head and beard attached during transport.

Alligator Reporting

Harvested alligators must be tagged immediately with an official FWC-issued tag. Alligator reports follow a separate process through your permit documentation.

Why It Matters

Accurate harvest data supports sustainable wildlife management. Violations can result in fines and lost hunting privileges. Reporting is also your legal proof of compliance in case FWC officers check you.

Quick Note on Felons & Firearms:
Convicted felons cannot legally use modern firearms for hunting in Florida. However, they may use bows, crossbows, muzzleloaders, or certain airguns.

CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease):
Florida confirmed CWD in 2023. You may not bring whole deer carcasses or high-risk parts into Florida or out of CWD management zones. Always debone and clean meat/skulls when transporting.

Carcass Disposal:
Do not dump deer remains roadside or on public land — it’s illegal and contributes to disease spread. Bury remains or leave them in the field, out of sight.

Hunt Smart, Stay Legal, Enjoy Florida

Florida offers incredible hunting—from early-season deer in the south to spring turkey and year-round wild hogs. But success starts with knowing the rules.

We’ve covered the essentials:

• Licenses and permits you need (and who’s exempt)
• Zone-specific season dates and bag limits
• Legal hunting methods and required safety practices
• Key differences between public and private land
• How and when to report your harvest

Stay informed

FWC updates rules yearly. Always check the latest handbook or FWC website before hunting. When in doubt, ask — it’s better to double-check than risk a violation.

Why it matters:
Following the rules protects your hunting privileges and supports conservation. Your license fees and reports help manage healthy wildlife populations for generations to come.

So before you go:
✔ Get licensed
✔ Know your zone and dates
✔ Wear orange (if required)
✔ Hunt ethically
✔ Report your harvest
✔ Respect landowners

Enjoy Florida’s wild places, and as FWC says, “Take a kid hunting – create a conservationist for life.”

FAQs – Florida Hunting Regulations

Do I need a license to hunt my land?

Florida residents may hunt their homestead (or that of a spouse/child) without a license, as long as it’s in their county of residence. However, you must still follow all seasons, bag limits, and federal rules (e.g., Duck Stamp for waterfowl). Non-residents always need a license.

What are the license requirements?

You must be 16+ and, if born after June 1, 1975, must complete a hunter safety course. Buy licenses online, in person, or via app. Be sure to add species permits and WMA access if needed. Some groups (youth, seniors, military) may be exempt from fees but must carry a valid ID.

When is deer season, and how does it vary by zone?

• Zone A: Archery starts late July; general gun runs Sept–Oct, then late Nov–Jan.
• Zone B: Latest season; archery starts in October, general gun hunting in Feb.
• Zone C: Archery in Sept, general gun Nov–Jan.
• Zone D: Archery in Oct, general gun from Thanksgiving through Feb.

Each zone has specific archery, muzzleloader, and youth hunt dates. Always confirm for your area.

What’s the deer limit, and do I have to report them?

• Max 5 deer/year (no more than two antlerless).
• Max 2 deer/day.
• Must log and report every deer within 24 hours.
  Use the FWC app, website, or phone hotline. Reporting is mandatory statewide.

Can I hunt wild hogs year-round?

• Private land: Yes — no license, season, or bag limit required (with landowner permission).
• Public land: Only during designated seasons and with proper permits. Some WMAs allow year-round hog hunting, but rules vary.