Florida is a hunter’s paradise with its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and year-round hunting opportunities. Whether you’re after wild hogs, alligators, deer, or small game, Florida’s hunting seasons are structured to offer a variety of thrilling experiences throughout the year. At Florida Trophy Outfitters, we specialize in providing unforgettable guided hunts for seasoned hunters and beginners alike.
This month-by-month guide will help you plan your hunting trips, understand the different game available, and make the most of each season in the Sunshine State.
January – Deer and Small Game Hunting
January is a great month for hunting in Florida as the weather cools down, making it more comfortable to explore the state’s wilderness. During this time:
- Whitetail Deer (Zone C): January marks the tail end of deer season in Florida, specifically in Zone C. Bucks are still active, and hunters can take advantage of the last days of deer hunting season.
- Small Game: January is prime time for hunting rabbits, squirrels, and quail. These smaller game animals are abundant in Florida’s forests and farmlands.
February – Small Game and Wild Hogs
While February marks the close of most big game seasons, it’s an ideal time to focus on small game hunting and wild hog hunting.
- Wild Hogs: Florida has a year-round season for wild hogs on private lands, making February an excellent time to target these elusive animals. At Florida Trophy Outfitters, we offer guided hog hunts that allow you to pursue these creatures in Florida’s dense forests and wetlands.
- Squirrels and Rabbits: February is also a great time to continue small game hunting, as squirrels and rabbits are still active.
March – Wild Hogs and Turkey Hunting Begins
March brings the excitement of spring turkey season, one of the most anticipated events in Florida’s hunting calendar.
- Osceola Turkey: Starting in March, spring turkey season kicks off in southern Florida for the Osceola subspecies. Florida is one of the only states where you can hunt the Osceola turkey, which makes it a prime destination for turkey hunters across the country.
- Wild Hogs: If turkey isn’t your focus, March is still perfect for hunting wild hogs, as they remain active year-round.
April – Peak of Spring Turkey Season
In April, the Osceola turkey season continues, extending to the central and northern regions of Florida. This month offers some of the best turkey hunting in the state:
- Osceola Turkey (Zones A, B, C): April is the peak of turkey season, and hunters flock to Florida to try their hand at bagging one of these prized birds. The Osceola turkey is known for its elusive nature and unique habitat, making it a challenging yet rewarding hunt.
May – Wild Hog Hunting in Full Swing
With spring turkey season wrapping up, May is the perfect time to turn your attention back to wild hog hunting. Florida’s wild hog population is thriving, making them an exciting target for hunters throughout the year. The warmer weather means wild hogs are more active in the early mornings and evenings, and with guided hunts at Florida Trophy Outfitters, you’ll have the best chance to land a trophy hog.
June – Alligator Hunts Begin
As summer heats up, June marks the start of Florida’s alligator hunting season. Alligator hunting is one of the most thrilling outdoor experiences you can have in Florida.
- Alligator Hunts: June through November is the season for alligator hunting, and with a permit, hunters can pursue these giant reptiles. At Florida Trophy Outfitters, our expert guides help you navigate Florida’s swamps and marshes for an adrenaline-filled alligator hunt.
July – Alligator and Wild Hog Hunts
July is all about alligator hunting and wild hogs. With summer in full swing, these species are highly active, making for some exciting hunts.
- Alligator Hunts: The warm weather makes alligators more visible on the surface, increasing your chances of a successful hunt.
- Wild Hogs: Early morning or evening wild hog hunts are best during the hot months of summer. Florida Trophy Outfitters offers night-time hog hunts with thermal optics, making July an ideal time to take on these elusive animals.
August – Alligator Hunting in Full Force
As alligator season continues through August, this month is prime time for harvesting some of the largest alligators of the year. Our guided alligator hunts at Florida Trophy Outfitters provide everything you need for a successful and safe hunting experience.
September – Deer Season Opens in Southern Florida
September brings excitement for deer hunters as the season for whitetail deer opens in Zone A, located in the southern part of Florida. Early archery season begins, offering the chance to take down a buck in Florida’s unique hunting environments.
- Deer (Zone A): September marks the start of deer hunting with bows and crossbows in the southern zone.
- Alligator Hunts: Alligator season remains open, giving hunters multiple game options in September.
October – Archery and Muzzleloader Deer Hunting
October is one of the most active months in Florida’s hunting calendar, with several opportunities for deer hunters.
- Archery & Crossbow (Zone B): As deer season progresses north, archery season opens in Zone B.
- Muzzleloader Season (Zone A): For those looking to use a traditional muzzleloader, October offers the chance to hunt deer with this unique weapon.
- Alligator & Wild Hogs: Don’t forget, both alligators and wild hogs are still in season, so there’s plenty of game to pursue.
November – General Gun Deer Season Begins
November kicks off general gun season for deer, and the excitement is palpable. With the cooler weather, deer are more active, making it a great time to head into the field.
- Deer (General Gun, Zone A): Firearms season begins, and hunters can use rifles to take down whitetail deer.
- Alligator Hunting: November also wraps up alligator season, so it’s your last chance to bag a big gator before the season ends.
December – Deer and Small Game Hunts
December is a great time for deer hunting, with gun seasons continuing in many parts of the state. It’s also an opportunity to get back into small game hunting.
- Deer (Zone B): General gun season for deer continues in Zone B, offering excellent opportunities for a successful hunt.
- Squirrels, Rabbits, and Quail: December is perfect for small game hunting as cooler weather makes these animals more active.
Plan Your Next Hunt with Florida Trophy Outfitters
Florida offers an incredible diversity of hunting opportunities throughout the year, and at Florida Trophy Outfitters, we provide guided hunts that ensure your experience is both successful and memorable. Whether you’re after wild hogs, deer, or alligators, we have the expertise and resources to help you make the most of Florida’s hunting seasons.
Book your next hunt today and get ready to experience the thrill of hunting in Florida’s beautiful and wild landscapes!
Conclusion
With year-round hunting opportunities, Florida is a top destination for hunters of all experience levels. Whether you prefer wild hog hunting, the excitement of alligator hunting, or the challenge of harvesting a trophy deer, Florida Trophy Outfitters is here to guide you through every season.