By STAFF REPORTS
Nestled in North Florida, the Suwannee River Water Management District owns approximately 160,000 acres of pristine wilderness. While this land is purchased for conservation and flood protection benefits, much of it is open to the public — in fact, more than 95 percent of District lands are open from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year.
Recreational activities vary from tract to tract, but fishing, swimming, camping, and horseback riding are popular activities on many tracts.
Hunting is another popular use in the area. More than 105,000 acres of District land can be utilized for hunting, attracting hunters from across the state and beyond. This public land, cooperatively managed as wildlife management areas with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), showcases a commitment to wildlife conservation and public recreational use.
All are welcome on District hunting lands. Some hunts are designed for youth; others for the mobility-impaired; and others are female-led hunts through District tracts. The goal? A unique hunting experience that lets hunters get back to their roots.
“To me, this is the ultimate challenge,” said Steve Carpenter, Senior Natural Resource Specialist with the District. “It’s back to nature, self-reliance; you’re learning the woods, learning the habits of animals, learning how to read the signs. There’s no baiting or feeding on District lands; you scout on foot, track with your eyes, and earn any shot.”
Carpenter also says this provides residents and visitors with a reprieve from the rigors of life.
“It gives you the opportunity to clear your mind,” he said. “Just seeing the sun come up, being one with nature as opposed to being in this fast-paced world of email and text messages and social media. You can shut all of that out. It’s a path back to nature that provides you with an escape from your day-to-day routine, even if just for a few hours.”
A Tapestry of Nature
District lands comprise a mosaic of ecosystems, including riverine swamps, pine forests, oak hammocks, and wetlands. This diverse landscape supports a rich array of wildlife, offering hunters a variety of experiences and challenges. From tracking elusive wild turkeys to waiting for white-tailed deer at dawn, the District promises an unforgettable hunting adventure. Florida is home to the Osceola turkey and Eastern Wild turkey, with both turkey subspecies ranges within the District lands.
Hunting opportunities also include bird hunting, coon hunting, frog gigging, and other various small game species.
The Role of Hunting in Conservation
Hunting plays a vital role in conservation, balancing wildlife populations with their environment to ensure healthy animals and habitats.
Ashlee Williams, an avid hunter, agrees.
“Legally regulated hunting has not caused any wildlife to become extinct,” she said. “In fact, it’s a land management practice that helps balance wildlife and healthy habitats.”
The District operates on these principles, promoting responsible hunting practices to manage wildlife populations and maintain ecosystem balance.
The Perfect Place to Get Started
Whether a lifelong experienced hunter or someone just getting started, District lands are great for all skill levels. District lands often host youth and women-led hunts, which has caused an increase in participation and adds a new dimension to the hunting narrative.
New hunter Kristen Turner said hunting has taught her life lessons.
“Hunting has taught me patience and respect for nature,” she said. “I also get to go home and brag to my husband that I brought home a cooler full of meat for our family.”
Commitment to Public Land Use
The District is dedicated to making public lands accessible and enjoyable for all. Integrated into the FWC’s Wildlife Management Area and Wildlife Environmental Area programs, the District’s lands are maintained to the highest standards, providing hunters with exceptional hunting opportunities. Hunting on District lands offers a chance to connect with nature and understand the delicate balance of ecosystems.
Local Knowledge
Knowing the best places to hunt is crucial for a successful experience in the District. Here’s an overview of the hunting seasons and recommended locations for white-tailed deer, turkey, and hog hunting within the district:
White-Tailed Deer
● Season: Typically runs from late September to early February, with archery season starting in late September, followed by muzzleloading gun season in October, and general gun season from mid-November to early February.
● Best Locations: The Steinhatchee Springs WMA and Mallory Swamp WMA are renowned for their healthy deer populations and vast hunting grounds. These areas provide ideal habitats and ample opportunities for hunters.
Turkey
● Spring Season: Generally, from early March to late April.
● Best Locations: The Devil’s Hammock WMA and the Santa Fe Swamp WMA are popular spots for turkey hunting. The diverse habitats and robust turkey populations make these areas prime hunting grounds.
Hog
● Season: Wild hogs can be hunted year-round on most public lands within the SRWMD.
● Best Locations: The Andrews WMA and the Cypress Creek WMA are known for their substantial hog populations. These areas offer hunters the chance to hunt hogs throughout the year.
Encountering Non-Game Species
While hunting, you may encounter various non-game species that contribute to the area’s rich biodiversity, including:
● Birds: painted bunting, common yellowthroat, and Red Cockaded woodpeckers
● Amphibians: southern leopard frog and various salamanders
● Reptiles: Eastern diamondback rattlesnake and gopher tortoise
Observing these species enhances the hunting experience, allowing hunters to appreciate the interconnectedness of all wildlife in the District.
Plan Your Visit
Scout access locations and find other outdoor recreation opportunities on SRWMD land Here.
Learn more about additional recreational options across SWRMD Here.
Explore all the different Maps available on SRWMD land Here.
