Javelina hunting is a popular sport in Florida, but it’s also controversial. Some people argue that javelina is pests that destroy crops and property, while others view them as valuable members of the ecosystem. In this blog post, we will explore both sides of the issue and provide tips for javelina hunting in Florida. We’ll also discuss the potential risks and rewards of javelina hunting so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you.
Javelina Hunting Laws in Florida
There are many javelina hunting laws in Florida that you need to be aware of before heading out on your hunt. Here are a few of the most important ones:
- You must have a valid hunting license to hunt javelina in Florida.
- Javelina may only be hunted during the open season, which runs from October 1st through March 31st.
- Bag limits for javelina are two per day, four per week, and eight per season.
- You must wear at least 500 square inches of fluorescent orange clothing while hunting javelina (this does not include your camouflage).
- Javelina may only be hunted with shotguns or air rifles; no other firearms are allowed.
- Javelinas may not be baited or lured with food or attractants of any kind.
Related: Alligator Hunting in Florida
Do you need a license to hunt Javelina in Florida?
In order to hunt javelina in Florida, you must have a valid hunting license. You can purchase a hunting license from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website or from a licensed retailer. A hunting license allows you to hunt for all game animals and birds except waterfowl. If you want to hunt waterfowl, you must also purchase a Florida waterfowl stamp.
Javelina Hunting Seasons in Florida
Javelina season in Florida runs from September 1st through March 31st. A hunting license is required and can be obtained from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Javelina may be hunted with dogs, but only during specific periods and with a permit. Dogs must be under the direct supervision of the hunter at all times. It is illegal to shoot javelina within 100 yards of a baited area.
The use of artificial lights is prohibited while hunting javelina. Hunters are also required to wear blaze orange during the gun season for deer.
During the archery season, only bows and arrows may be used to hunt javelina. Crossbows are not permitted. The bag limit for javelina is two per person per day, with a possession limit of four.
Can you hunt Javelina at night in Florida?
There are a few things to consider before hunting javelina at night in Florida. First, while javelinas are nocturnal animals, they are also easily spooked. You will need to be extra careful to avoid scaring them off while you are setting up your hunting blind or spot. Second, because they are active at night, you will need to be prepared for them to move around a lot. Be sure to bring along a flashlight and binoculars so you can keep track of them. Finally, remember that javelinas are extremely smelly creatures. If you are hunting downwind of them, they will likely catch your scent and take off. Javelina hunting at night can be challenging, but if you are prepared and patient, you can have a successful hunt.
Bag limits for hunting Javelina in Florida
There is no bag limit for javelina when hunting with a gun in Florida. However, there is a two-javelina limit per day when hunting with a crossbow or bow. Additionally, only one of the two javelinas may be taken from Hillsborough County.
Legal ways to hunt Javelina in Florida
The Sunshine State is home to many different species of animals, including the javelina. Javelinas are a type of wild pig that is native to the Americas and can be found in many different habitats, including the Florida scrublands.
Javelinas are not an endangered species, but they are regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). In order to hunt javelinas in Florida, hunters must obtain a hunting license and follow all state and federal regulations.
There are two ways to legally hunt javelinas in Florida: with a gun or with a bow and arrow. Hunters can use either firearms or archery equipment, but they must have a permit for each method. The FWC has specific regulations regarding the type of firearm that can be used to hunt javelina, as well as the type of arrows that can be used for bowhunting.
When hunting javelina, it is important to be aware of their behavior and habitat. Javelinas are most active at dawn and dusk, so hunters should plan their hunts accordingly. Javelinas are also social animals, so hunters should look for groups of javelinas rather than individuals. Finally, javelina typically lives in areas with dense vegetation, so hunters should wear camouflage clothing to blend in with their surroundings.
Can you use dogs to hunt Javelina in Florida?
Yes, dogs can be used to hunt Javelina in Florida. There are a few things to consider when using dogs to hunt Javelina. First, Javelinas are very fast and agile, so the dogs need to be able to keep up with them. Second, Javelinas have sharp tusks that can injure the dogs, so it is important to make sure the dogs are well-trained and will not get too close to the Javelina. Finally, Javelinas are very strong and can fight back against dogs, so it is important to have a good plan in place in case of an attack.
Can you hunt Javelina from a vehicle in Florida?
No, you cannot hunt Javelina from a vehicle in Florida. You must be completely outside of and not touching any part of the vehicle, including the tires.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up our javelina hunting in Florida, we wanted to share some final thoughts. Overall, we had a great time and were successful in our hunt. The weather was perfect and the scenery was beautiful.
We did encounter some hogs while hunting, but they were not of the javelina variety. These hogs are a nuisance and can destroy habitats, so it’s important to be aware of them while hunting. Javelinas are much more shy and elusive, so it takes patience and skill to harvest one.
We’re already looking forward to next year’s javelina hunt in Florida. With a little more experience under our belts, we’re confident we’ll be even more successful. If you’re thinking about giving javelina hunting a try, we recommend it – just be prepared for a challenging yet rewarding experience.
