Looking for a new hunting adventure? Why not try alligator hunting in Florida? Alligator hunting is a popular sport in Florida, and it can be a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of the state. But before you head out on your alligator hunt, there are a few things you need to know. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on alligator hunting in Florida. We’ll discuss what you need to bring with you, how to find the best spots for alligator hunting, and what to do once you’ve caught your prey. So if you’re ready for a new challenge, read on for everything you need to know about alligator hunting in Florida.
Alligator Hunting Laws in Florida
Alligator hunting laws in Florida are designed to ensure that alligators are harvested sustainably and safely. Alligator hunting is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
There are two types of alligator hunting licenses available in Florida: a General Use license and a Special Use license. A General Use license allows the licensee to take two alligators per year, with no more than one alligator taken per permit period. A Special Use license allows the licensee to take up to four alligators per year.
Alligator hunters must possess a valid hunting license, appropriate stamps, and permits prior to hunting. Alligators may be taken only during specified harvest periods, which typically run from late August through early November. When an alligator is harvested, the hide must be removed and the meat properly processed or disposed of.
Violation of alligator hunting laws can result in significant fines and penalties, including revocation of hunting privileges. It is important to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations governing alligator hunting before heading out into the field.
Related: Hog Hunting in Florida
Do you need a license to hunt alligators in Florida?
If you want to hunt alligators in Florida, you need a license from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). You can apply for a license online or at a county tax collector’s office. The cost of the license is $272 for residents and $1,022 for non-residents. If you’re a resident of Florida, you also need to have a hunting license.
Alligator Hunting Seasons in Florida
There are two alligator hunting seasons in Florida: the regular season and the nuisance alligator season. The regular season runs from September 1st to October 31st, while the nuisance alligator season runs from April 1st to June 30th.
Alligators may be taken only by means of hand-held snares, harpoons, gigs, arrows, spears, bang sticks, or captive bolt guns. Alligators may not be taken by any method from aircraft or motorboats.
During the regular season, one alligator per person is allowed, with a maximum of two alligators per vessel. During the nuisance alligator season, there is no limit on the number of alligators that can be taken.
All hunters must possess a valid Florida hunting license and a Florida Alligator Trapping License. Alligators must be tagged with an official Florida Alligator Harvest Tag prior to being removed from the water. A $52 permit is required to hunt alligators in state wildlife management areas or water bodies within those areas.
Can you hunt alligators at night in Florida?
The simple answer is yes, you can hunt alligators at night in Florida. There are a few things to keep in mind, however, before heading out into the darkness in pursuit of these large reptiles.
First and foremost, it is important to remember that alligators are more active at night, so caution must be used when approaching them. It is also important to have a clear understanding of Florida’s alligator hunting regulations before setting out, as there are specific rules and guidelines that must be followed.
With these things in mind, nighttime alligator hunting can be an exciting and rewarding experience. If you’re lucky enough to bag one of these impressive creatures, you’ll have a story to tell for years to come.
Bag limits for hunting Alligator in Florida
The bag limit for alligator hunting in Florida is two per person, per day. Alligators must be at least four feet in length to be harvested. The take of alligators is prohibited from June 1 through August 31.
Legal ways to hunt Alligators in Florida
In Florida, there are two ways to legally hunt alligators: with a permit from the FWC or on a licensed alligator farm.
If you want to hunt alligators with a permit from the FWC, you must first complete a Hunter Safety Course. After that, you can apply for a permit during the annual public drawing or through a random drawing. The number of permits issued each year varies depending on the population of alligators and their nesting habits.
If you want to hunt alligators on a licensed alligator farm, you must have written permission from the farm owner or operator. Alligator farms are regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Can you use dogs to hunt alligators in Florida?
Yes, you can use dogs to hunt alligators in Florida. Alligators are often found in marshes and swamps, so using a dog to help flush them out can be helpful. When choosing a dog breed for alligator hunting, consider one that is athletic and has a strong bite, like a bulldog or a terrier. Start training your dog early, so they are comfortable working near alligators. And be sure to keep them on a leash when you are around alligators, as they can be dangerous.
Can you hunt Alligator from a vehicle in Florida?
In Florida, alligator hunting from a vehicle is only allowed if the alligator is actively pursuing prey. If an alligator is not actively pursuing prey, hunters must attempt to capture the alligator using non-vehicular means such as fishing lines and hooks, snares, harpoons, or gigs. Alligators may be hunted day or night during the open season with a valid hunting license.
Final Thoughts
After spending a week in the Florida Everglades, I can say with certainty that alligator hunting is not for the faint of heart. It takes a certain type of person to be able to track and kill these massive beasts.
However, if you’re up for the challenge, alligator hunting can be an incredibly exhilarating experience. There’s nothing quite like stalking your prey through the swamp and then finally taking it down.
If you’re considering going alligator hunting, I would recommend doing your research and talking to experienced hunters before making any decisions. But if you’re ready for an adventure, alligator hunting in Florida is definitely something you won’t want to miss.
