Raccoon Hunting in Florida

Raccoon hunting in Florida is a popular pastime for many residents and tourists alike. The state is home to a large population of raccoons, which can be found in both urban and rural areas. Raccoon hunting is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). There are specific seasons for hunting raccoons, as well as limits on how many animals can be killed. In addition, hunters must have a valid hunting license and follow all other FWC rules and regulations. Whether you’re a Florida resident or visitor, if you’re interested in raccoon hunting, read on for more information about the best times of year to hunt, where to find raccoons, and what kind of equipment you’ll need.

Raccoon Hunting Laws in Florida

Raccoon hunting laws in Florida are very specific and differ from other states. It is important to know and follow these laws when hunting raccoons in Florida.

The general season for raccoon hunting in Florida runs from November 1st through March 31st. A hunting license is required and can be obtained from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. There are no bag limits or size restrictions for raccoons in Florida.

There are several methods of taking raccoons that are legal in Florida including shooting, trapping, and dogs. Raccoons may be taken with firearms using shotgun shells not larger than number six shot, air rifles, pellet guns, bows, crossbows, or slingshots. Raccoons may also be taken by means of body-gripping traps or Conibear-type traps set on land or in water where the trap does not underwater completely submerge. The use of dogs to hunt raccoons is permitted, but dogs must be under the immediate control of the hunter at all times. Dogs may not be used to drive game to a stander or jumper.

It is illegal to shoot a raccoon that is inside a den tree hole without first checking to see if there are any young inside. If there are young present, they must be destroyed before the adult can be taken. It is also illegal to shoot a nursing female raccoon with visible young unless all other methods of taking the animal have failed.

Do you need a license to hunt Raccoons in Florida?

There are no specific laws regulating the hunting of raccoons in Florida, so a license is not required. However, hunters should be aware of general hunting regulations, including seasons and bag limits, which may apply. Additionally, it is always best to check with the local land manager or game warden to ensure that hunting is allowed in the area where you plan to hunt.

Raccoon Hunting Seasons in Florida

The raccoon hunting season in Florida runs from November 1 through April 30. During this time, hunters can take up to six raccoons per day. There is no closed season on private lands, but on public lands, the season is closed from February 16 through March 31 to protect mother raccoons and their young.

Can you hunt Raccoons at night in Florida?

In Florida, you can only hunt raccoons at night during the open hunting season. The state’s wildlife management areas generally have specific regulations governing night hunting, so be sure to check before heading out. A permit is also required to hunt on some public lands. Raccoons are most active at night, so this is when they’re most likely to be found. If you’re using a firearm, be extra careful to ensure that you’re not shooting into areas where people or livestock could be present. You’ll also need a good light source to spot the animals and avoid accidentally shooting non-target animals such as opossums.

Bag limits for hunting Raccoons in Florida

The bag limit for hunting raccoons in Florida is two per person, per day. This limit applies to both resident and non-resident hunters alike. There are no exceptions to this rule, so be sure to check with the local authorities before heading out on your hunt.

Legal ways to hunt Raccoons in Florida

There are many ways to hunt raccoons in Florida, but only a few of them are legal. The most common way to hunt raccoons is with a shotgun or a rifle. You can also use a trap, but it must be placed on private property with the owner’s permission.

If you want to use a dog to help you hunt, you can do so, but there are some restrictions. Dogs can only be used for hunting from October 1 through March 31. During this time, dogs can only be used during daylight hours and must be under the direct supervision of the hunter.

It is also illegal to shoot a raccoon in a den or tree where it is obvious the animal is raising young. If you see a mother raccoon with her babies, it’s best to leave them alone and find another hunting spot.

Can you use dogs to hunt Raccoons in Florida?

There are a variety of methods that can be used to hunt raccoons in Florida, but using dogs is one of the most popular and effective methods. Dogs can be used to track and flush out raccoons from their dens, making them easy targets for hunters.

When using dogs to hunt raccoons, it is important to have a good understanding of the animal’s behavior. Raccoons are nocturnal creatures that typically sleep during the day and become active at night. They are also good swimmers and climbers, so dogs that are able to keep up with them on these terrain features will be most successful.

Hunters should also be aware of the laws governing dog hunting in Florida. In some areas, it is illegal to use dogs to hunt raccoons unless they are leashed. This is because unleashed dogs can sometimes cause damage to property or injure other animals while chasing after a raccoon. Be sure to check local regulations before heading out on your hunt.

Can you hunt Raccoons from a vehicle in Florida?

Yes, in Florida, you can hunt raccoons from a vehicle. There are a few requirements that must be met in order to do so legally. First, you must have a valid hunting license. Second, you must be on a public road or right-of-way. Third, you can only shoot from the road if it is safe to do so and will not endanger others. Finally, you may not use artificial lights to spotlight game while hunting from a vehicle.

Final Thoughts

There are a few things to keep in mind when hunting raccoons in Florida. First, they are nocturnal animals, so you will need to do your hunting at night. Second, they are good climbers, so you will need to be sure to tree them before you shoot. Third, they are intelligent and have a good sense of smell, so you will need to be careful not to scare them off or alert them to your presence.

With these things in mind, you should have no problem finding and bagging a few raccoons on your next hunting trip to Florida.