Hunting in Florida

Where to spring turkey hunt without needing a quota permit
There are 42 WMAs that don't require a quota permit to hunt all or some of their spring turkey season. Find out which ones!
Photography by Jamie Adams

Regulations

The Hunting Handbook summarizes the hunting regulations for private and public lands. The FWC also cooperates with other landowners to establish wildlife management area (WMA) regulations.

Licenses and permits

Florida residents and visitors need a Florida hunting license, unless they are exempt. The limited entry permit program offers quality hunting on WMAs. Application periods begin in early spring. For some hunts/times, no quota permit is required.

Hunter safety

Hunters born on or after June 1, 1975 and 16 years old, must pass a hunter safety course before purchasing a license. The mentoring exemption allows certain hunters to purchase a one-time only hunting license without completing the course.

Public hunting opportunities

FWC cooperatively manages public hunting on more than 5.5 million acres in our WMA system. The FWC cannot give permission to hunt on other lands. Land that is not posted or fenced, including some water bodies, may not be open to hunting. There is a directory of outfitters and guides to help you plan your hunt.

 


FWC Facts:
The traditional hunter safety course covers the knowledge, skills and attitude needed to be a safe hunter - with 12 hours of instruction, a test and 3 hours on a shooting range.

Learn More at AskFWC