Best Deer Hunts in Florida

Why Go for Deer Hunting in Florida

Florida boasts a wide range of hunting zones. Besides, this state is blessed with large wildlife management area (WMA) systems. These WMAs cover nearly 6 million acres of area. Therefore, Florida offers a distinct deer hunting experience.

Also, deer hunting in Florida is somewhat affordable. The license fee and lodging expenses are relatively cheap, making Florida a perfect location for hunting deer.

Licenses and Permits for Deer Hunts Florida

To hunt deer during hunting season, you need to get a license from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Apart from this, you might also need to obtain a quota hunt permit to participate in designated hunts. This rule applies to select Wildlife Management Areas (WMA’s). 

Florida Guided Deer Hunts

For those who are new to deer hunting in Florida, guided deer hunts can prove highly valuable. With professional guidance and assistance, deer hunting tends to offer a thrilling and adventurous experience.

Here at Seminole Prairie, we offer the services of knowledgeable deer hunting guides. With proper guidance, you can reach the prime hunting areas. Furthermore, our team of expert guides offers crucial insights into deer behavior.

Prime Deer Hunting Seasons

Timing is critical, especially when you are planning a deer hunting expedition in Florida. The state offers various hunting seasons with multiple hunting opportunities for both firearm and archery enthusiasts.

Archery season usually starts during late summer, providing a more intimate and quieter hunting experience. The arrival of autumn kick starts the firearm season, allowing the hunters to test their skills.

Safe and Enjoyable Deer Hunting Experience

Apart from the thrill associated with deer hunting in Florida, we are also concerned about your safety on the hunting ground. Therefore, we make sure that all the mandatory safety measures are taken into account. Discussed below are some of the key factors that make your hunting trip safe and enjoyable.

Identify Your Target

Before taking a shot, it is necessary to identify the target. For this purpose, you must be in a position to clearly see the target.

Know Your Surroundings

You also need to be aware of your surroundings. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the terrain and locations of other hunters to avoid accidentally shooting at them.

Know and Follow the Firearm Safety Rules

Below are the most commonly practiced firearm safety rules:

• Always treat a firearm as if it is loaded.
• The muzzle should always be pointed in a safe direction.
• Keep your fingers away from the trigger when not aiming at a target.

Use a Safety Harness for Tree Stands

When using a tree stand, it is advised to use a safety harness. Falling from a tree stand could pose serious injuries. A strong harness can prevent this from happening.

Methods of Deer Hunts in Florida Depending on the Season

Here are the deer hunt methods applicable to lands outside of the Wildlife Management System (WMA).

Archery Season: Hunter can use bows only.

Crossbow Season: Deer hunting is only permitted with bows and crossbows.

Muzzleloading Gun Season: Muzzleloading guns, bows, and crossbows are allowed to be used.

General Gun Season: During florida deer hunts, you can use shotguns, centerfire rifles/pistols, precharged pneumatic air guns, muzzleloaders, bows, and crossbows.

FAQs about Deer Hunts in Florida

 

Where to hunt deer in Florida?

Counties with higher deer populations include Jackson, Gadsden, Calhoun, and Alachua. Hunters can also take advantage of FWC’s INTERACTIVE MAP for further guidance. Besides, there are two new areas added to FMC’s WMA system include:

• Orange Hammock WMA
• Everglades Headwaters WMA

What are the dates for deer hunting in Florida?

The dates for deer hunting in FL may differ depending on the zone or deer management unit. For deer hunting dates and zone maps, please visit the official website of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Is it legal to hunt deer in Florida?

Yes, it is legal to hunt deer in Florida if you have a hunting license and a deer permit. If you are hunting deer in FWC’s Wildlife Management Area, you need a management area permit.

Do you need a license to hunt deer on your own property in Florida?

Even if you are hunting on your own property in Florida, you need a license. This is done with a view to support deer conservation efforts. It also ensures that hunters stick to responsible hunting practices.

What are the shooting hours for deer hunting?

Below are the shooting hours for deer hunting outside the Wildlife Management Areas (WMA’s):

• One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset

On the other hand, the shooting hours in Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), along with season dates, are available on the FWC’s website.

How much does it cost to hunt deer in Florida?

The cost of hunting deer in Florida depends on the type of deer you want to hunt. Usually, the price range starts at $1000 and goes up to $5000.

What is the cheapest state to hunt deer?

The cost of deer hunting varies depending on various factors like license fees, permit costs, travel costs, etc.

If you are a USA resident looking for the convenient and cheapest deer hunting adventures, here are a few best states to consider:

• South Dakota
• Missouri
• Kansas
• Ohio
• Wisconsin

On the other hand, Oklahoma is referred to as the cheapest state for deer hunting for non-residents.

How many deer can you shoot a year in Florida?

The annual bag limit for deer hunts in Florida is 5 deer per hunter. Also, there should be no more than 2 deer classified as antlerless. This limit applies to all hunters irrespective of their age, license type, or permit specifications.