FWC proposes rule changes for hunting gators in Florida | WFLA When Is Gator Season in Florida? - CGAA Before FWC Commissioners approved increasing hunting hours to 24 hours a day on most areas, alligator hunting was allowed from 5 p.m. until 10 a.m. 24-hour hunting allows alligator hunters an additional 7 hours of daylight hunting each day to harvest alligators during the alligator season. Boat restrictions are regulated by local or regional government authorities. Any customers who request reprints must allow at least 10 business days to receive the replacement permit and tags. Such application or written request shall include a copy of the current food permit from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for the proposed facility. The Commission-provided CITES tag shall remain affixed to the hide piece until the hide piece is tanned, taxidermy mounted, or exported from the state. Residents who do not hold a Florida drivers license or identification card cannot use the online system to apply as a resident and must instead apply in-person at a license agent or tax collectors office with alternateproof of residency. How long does gator season last in Florida? For those interested in hunting alligators in Florida, it is important to do research and follow all guidelines and regulations set forth by the state. Welcome to "Find A Hunt," your go-to authority for all things hunting. (a) Artificial lures or baited wooden pegs less than two (2) inches in length attached to hand-held restraining lines or restraining lines attached to a vessel occupied by the permittee. New for 2022, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Commissioners have approved increasing hunting hours for the statewide alligator hunt and . How to Apply: Applicants can applyonline at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com(sign on and choose Apply for Limited Entry/Quota Permit) or by completing the Application Worksheet and presenting it to any license agent or tax collectors office. This video is not available. Can I receive a refund for my fees if I am permitted but cannot participate in the hunt? However, for the purposes of this provision, the taking of alligators does not include the activities of driving the vessel or the use of a light. Expand/Collapse What is the benefit of daylight hunting? While some may question the ethics of alligator hunting, it is an important practice in Florida and provides several benefits, including controlling the population of alligators and supporting the local economy. 9, Fla. Preference Points:There are no preference points for this permit type. Hunters must also follow specific guidelines for capturing and harvesting alligators. (g) Immediately upon killing, a CITES tag issued by the Commission and a harvest tag, if issued, shall be locked through the skin of the carcass within six (6) inches of the tip of the tail. It is important to note that hunting alligators in Florida is not without controversy. SUMMARY: We, the U.S. The statewide alligator hunting season begins on August 15 and ends on November 1. In conclusion, hunting alligators in Florida is legal but strictly regulated. A commercially manufactured air gun that is charged from an external high compression source such as an air compressor, air tank, or external hand pump and is specifically designed to propel a bolt, arrow, or other projectile commonly used for hunting. The results of the authorization and random drawing will be posted on customer accounts at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. In Florida, you cannot hunt crocodiles from a vehicle. While it's a good idea to complete an approved Florida hunter safety course before taking part in the statewide alligator harvest, it is not required by law.. You also can get ready for the upcoming hunt by reviewing the FWC's free online alligator harvest training class.This 22-minute training opportunity isn't required but is another easy way for hunters to get up to speed on rules and . The drawing determines the lucky hunters who will receive a permit, allowing them to legally hunt alligators during the designated season. By obtaining the appropriate licenses, familiarizing yourself with hunting zones and permits, and following the established guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding hunting adventure while contributing to the conservation efforts of alligator populations. Blog / Florida Alligator Hunting: Laws and Regulations, Title: Florida Alligator Hunting: Laws and Regulations. Historically, the state of Florida only issues about 5,000 of these per year, but recent booms in alligator populations have caused them to increase permits to over . December 4, 2021 at 9:30 a.m.December 6, 2021 at 2:54 p.m. Florida has 24-hour restaurants and 24-hour gyms. For example, harpoon points should be removed from the harpoon pole and stowed away; snatch hooks should be removed from fishing poles and put away, etc. All documentation required by subparagraph 8(c)3., above, shall be provided to the Commission within seven (7) days of completion of the hide cutting process. For a period of ten (10) years preceding the date of application if such conviction involved the taking of an endangered crocodilian species. Applications and Permit Issuance: Applicants may submit one application per phase and receive up to one permit in Phase I, II, or III of the application process. The new weapons are precharged pneumatic airbows, and along with the tethered arrows, they would give hunters a new effective way to initially secure a line to the animal to safely gain control of it for harvesting. (d) Meat processed or re-processed for sale shall be packaged in a sealed, tamper-proof package (a package that is permanently and noticeably altered if opened to remove or add meat). Non-participating passengers in a boat with alligator trappers are not required to be licensed. The hide cutting process may occur for up to two (2) days under the notice of intent. See a full list of our Social Media accounts, New Rules for the Statewide Alligator Harvest Program. Florida may allow 24-hour-a-day alligator hunting - Sun Sentinel An airbow is pre-charged pneumatic air gun that propels arrows. Those successful in any one of the first three phases cannot apply for additional permits until Phase IV Leftovers. Report fish kills, wildlife emergencies, sightings, etc. In this article, we will explore the rules and regulations surrounding alligator hunting in Florida. Statewide Alligator Hunt Permit | FWC - Florida Fish and Wildlife (3) Alligator meat may only be sold if imported or if processed from carcasses skinned in a permitted alligator processing facility and processed and packaged in such a facility as provided in this section. Furthermore, hunters are required to report their harvest to the FWC within 24 hours. Always thaw alligator meat in the refrigerator. (e) Written records of the number, source, and disposition of all alligator hide pieces produced under this Rule that are retained, bought, sold, received, or transferred by licensed alligator farmers, alligator meat processors, or alligator hide buyers shall be maintained for a period of one year. 620 S. Meridian St. Tallahassee, FL (850) 488-4676 Only the permitted trapper may possess the unused CITES tags issued to that trapper, but alligator trapping agents may take alligators in the presence of the permitted trapper. Alligator hunting in Florida is primarily conducted at night, as alligators are most active during this time. How many alligators can you take? Individuals permitted to take alligators in the countywide harvest units will be allowed to take two alligators from any area they could legally access in the specified county, including public and private lands and waters, but excluding specific water bodies established as AMUs, private wetlands permitted for alligator management, and other protected public properties (exclusions are detailed below). Reprints:Alligator Trapping Licenses and permits canonlybe reprinted by the FWC Office of Licensing and Permitting upon written request from the permit holder. The Statewide Alligator Hunt is a highly sought after limited entry hunt; there are often more than 15,000 applicants that will apply for approximately 7,000 permits. Pursuant to section 120.74, Florida Statutes, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has published its2022 Agency Regulatory Plan. Website by GroupM7 Design, Iowa Deer Hunting: How to Safely Handle Firearms. Size and Harvest Regulations. Alligator hunting in Florida is a unique and exciting experience that many people look forward to every year. The harvest tag, if issued, shall remain attached to the alligator until processing. It's important to note that licenses are issued through a random drawing system due to high demand. Expand/Collapse What is the benefit of using an airbow over a crossbow? In order to hunt alligators, you need a license from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. hunting hours to 24 hours a day on most areas, a. Expand/Collapse What is the benefit of 24-hour hunting? Is It Legal To Hunt Alligators In Florida? - Reptiles Blog The new hunting rules proposed and approved by FWC come right as alligator mating season is about to start. Check out this Gem of Tampa Bay, Dont miss deadline to claim Facebook settlement, Check out this Gem of Tampa Bay: The Mercantile in, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. These prehistoric creatures can be found throughout the state, and for some, hunting them is a thrilling experience. (b) All imported alligator meat shall be shipped in a tamper-proof package. Be 18 years of age or older by August 15 in the current application year. However, individuals who are age 15 or younger are not required to have an agent license to participate. Who can participate? Florida Alligator Hunts - Ross Hammock Ranch Florida Fish and Wildlife recommends a two-inch section of broomstick handle. (8) Provisions for cutting raw alligator hides into pieces: (a) Only the following persons who possess legally-acquired, untanned alligator hides with CITES tags affixed may cut those hides into pieces: (b) Whole hides may be cut into a maximum of four (4) pieces for further processing. A Florida hunting license is not required to participate in the statewide alligator hunt. Expand/Collapse Frequently Asked Questions, Many records contain the location of harvest, so you can search for bodies of water that have been hunted under a county-wide permit in past years using the. (1) Meat from legally acquired alligators that is not discarded and not processed for sale shall be packaged and labeled to indicate the CITES tag number and license holders name in indelible ink on each package. (e) Harvest permits shall be valid only for the management unit and harvest period indicated thereon, and harvest permits and their associated harvest tags, if issued, and CITES tags are not transferable. Report injured, orphaned or dead manatees, Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network, purchase an Alligator Trapping Agent license, See a full list of our Social Media accounts. Alligator Hunting In Florida - Gator Hunting Florida Hunting Regulations | FWC - Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation By Florida law you may use rifle in daylight hours only and crossbow, bang stick, bow, spear and pole at night. In Florida You Can Hunt These Animals Without A License The harvest permit will specify the harvest period. When will the opportunity to use airbows take effect? Many recognize the Florida alligator hunts offered by Ross Hammock Ranch to be the best available . When is the alligator hunting season? Receipts, temporary license numbers, and printed copies of Internet pages may not be used as a Statewide Alligator Hunt permit. Such records shall be open to inspection by Commission personnel during reasonable hours. How to Get the Permit:Successful applicants who have provided a valid email address will receive a receipt of payment. The possession of any alligator hide not tagged as prescribed herein is prohibited, and such hide shall be subject to seizure and forfeiture to the Commission under the provisions of Section 379.338, F.S. All documentation in compliance with subparagraph 8(d)3., above, shall be provided to the Commission within seven (7) days of completion of the hide cutting process along with any issued CITES tags that were not used. More popular methods include using spears, spearguns, harpoons, gigs, bows and crossbows. Hunting hoursbegin at midnight on the first day of each harvest period and end at 11:59 p.m. on the last day of each harvest period. Expand/Collapse What are the alligator hunting hours approved by FWC Commissioners at their May 2022 meeting? To help prevent your alligator meat from spoiling, see our recommended guidelines about processing, preserving and cooking. The fees for countywide harvest units are the same as for the traditional harvest units. Reporting Requirements:By the end of the Statewide Alligator hunting season, permit holders must report their harvest using anAlligator Harvest Report Form. It is important to note that not all areas of the state are open for hunting, so you must check the FWC website for specific regulations and restrictions. Harvest . New public hunting area in Northwest Florida: Garcon Point Wildlife Management Area is 3,245 acres in Santa Rosa . For counties that have a river or other waterbody as a boundary, the countywide alligator harvest permit allows trappers to hunt both sides of the river immediately adjacent to the permitted county. Const., 379.3751, 379.3752 FS. It is always best to ensure that you are following all regulations and laws related to alligator hunting in Florida to avoid any legal issues. Transferability:Statewide Alligator Hunt permits are not transferable. If you must travel through an area where you not permitted to hunt alligators, then you should stow away or take down all alligator harvest equipment. Statewide alligator hunting season begins Monday - WINK News The FWC issues permits through a lottery system, and only a limited number of permits are available each year. You will be hunting with all weapons needed to insure we get your alligator. ; and in other Alligator Management Units established the respective counties. The application periods for phases 2-4 begin soon thereafter. Call +1 352 303 7909 NOW for information or to book your Alligator hunting adventure of a lifetime! To hunt alligators, you must obtain a permit through the FWC and follow specific rules and regulations. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) oversees alligator hunting and has a structured application process. Report fish kills, wildlife emergencies, sightings, etc. (b) The executive director shall not issue an alligator processing facility permit or shall revoke said permit for any person who has been convicted of any violation of Section 379.409 or 379.3015, F.S., or the rules of the Commission relating to the illegal taking of any crocodilian species: (5) Provisions for the operation of alligator processing facilities: (a) Alligator processors and their designated employees as provided by permit may receive and possess legally acquired, tagged, unskinned alligator carcasses and skinned alligator carcasses with the CITES tag number and, if applicable, the harvest tag number recorded on an attached tag for processing of meat and hides provided: (b) Commission personnel shall be granted access to any permitted facility to collect biological specimens from and data on any alligators possessed under this subsection, provided that specimens shall only be collected when necessary for the management of the species. These USGS topographic maps are free to download by clicking on the"Map Locator Tool. It is also important for non-residents to ensure they are in compliance with any regulations or laws in their home state or country related to hunting alligators or other wildlife. Statewide Alligator Harvest Program | FWC - Florida Fish and Wildlife How can hunters prevent alligator meat from spoiling when hunting during the hottest part of the day? A CITES tag shall remain affixed to the hide piece until the hide piece is destroyed, tanned, taxidermy mounted, or exported from the state. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and other penalties. Each year, the FWC opens a limited alligator hunting season that typically runs from August to November. What you need to know about applying for alligator harvest permits and (a) Alligator meat not discarded shall be processed or sold in accordance with Rule 68A-25.052, F.A.C. The application process typically begins in June, prior to the start of the hunting season, and interested hunters must submit their applications by the designated deadline. 2 February 2017 Pg 22 John K. Powell Animal Law "Never insult an alligator until after you have crossed the river."1 September 14, 2022 by Arnold In Florida, there are many animals that you can hunt without a license. Permits are issued by random drawing during Phase I, II, and III and issued on a first-come, first-served basis in Phase IV Leftovers. If one of our taxidermists is used, this will include getting your alligator to the taxidermist. Note: All sales are final and there will be no refunds available or offered for successful applicants. In conclusion, hunting alligators in Florida is legal, but it is strictly regulated by the state. A Florida hunting or fishing license is not required to participate in the statewide alligator hunt. Florida alligator hunting offers an exhilarating and challenging experience for avid hunters. Refunds will not be granted for alligator trapping licenses or tag fees after the beginning of the harvest period specified on the permit. HistoryNew 5-5-88, Amended 2-14-89, 4-11-90, 4-14-92, 4-29-93, 7-1-94, 3-30-95, 4-1-96, 9-15-96, 4-12-98, Formerly 39-25.042, Amended 4-30-00, 5-13-02, 4-11-04, 3-30-06, 3-19-08, 3-12-09, 7-20-09, 7-20-11, 3-24-13, 8-19-14, 2-1-16. Report injured, orphaned or dead manatees, Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network, Alligator Harvest Training and Orientation video course, Alligator Meat Processors and Hide Buyers, Links to hunting equipment vendors and more, Statewide Alligator Harvest Data Summary (2000 - 2022), Tips to apply for alligator harvest permits, Statewide Alligator Harvest Data Search (2000 - 2022), Application and permit issuance procedures, Florida Department of Transportation's color maps, See a full list of our Social Media accounts. Which portable hot tub is best for glamping? 68A-25.042 Regulations Governing Statewide Alligator Trapping, Permitting, Taking and Sale. For only $40 per hunter, choose either a shotgun or a riflewe'll even include ammo! Pursuant to section 120.74, Florida Statutes, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has published its2022 Agency Regulatory Plan. Expand/Collapse When will the 24-hour hunt take effect? Importance of Residency at Time of Application: Residency status is established at the time of application and will be used throughout the issuance process. The commission said adding the extra daylight hours would help ensure alligators hooked before 10 a.m. can actually be landed before a deadline. Get the Android Weather app from Google Play, Neighbors worried about wastewater spill cleanup, FACT FOCUS: Is Dodger Stadium flooded? (f) The number of harvest permits issued per person shall be determined by the executive director or his designee. Alligators may be hunted 24 hours a day on most areas. Hunting Zones and Permits (approximately 100 words): Florida is divided into different hunting zones, each with its own quota and regulations. (i) Tags issued under this section shall remain the property of the Commission until affixed as provided herein. The increased hours would make gator hunting legal 24 hours a day in most areas, according to FWC. Allowing hunting from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., will provide those with an alligator trapping license/alligator harvest permit seven more hours a day of hunting opportunity. Also, you should not search for alligators when traveling through an area for which you are not permitted; travel in a straight line to your destination, and, if traveling at night, do not sweep your spotlight from side to side as it may appear that you are searching for alligators. There are several hunting methods that are allowed for alligator hunting in Florida, including baiting, harpooning, and using firearms or archery equipment. The state wildlife commission has proposed adding . It is also important to note that killing an alligator without a permit or outside of the designated hunting season is illegal and can result in fines and even jail time. Complete an online alligator harvest report form within 24 hours of harvesting. If there are sufficient funds to cover all applicable fees, the application is authorized for the lottery; if the account has insufficient funds to cover the fees, the application cannot be authorized and will be unsuccessful in the drawing. (b) Annual harvest quotas for each management unit shall be established by the executive director, or his designee, and shall be based upon an evaluation of on-site habitat or population inventories for each management unit. An application may be resubmitted to update residency status, application choices, and/or credit or debit card information. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is responsible for managing and regulating alligator hunting in the state. Hunters are responsible for learning requirements and regulations pertaining to the types of hunting they pursue. Alligators may be taken only by the use of artificial lures or baited, wooden pegs less than two (2) inches in length attached to a hand-held restraining line and hand-held snares, harpoons, gigs, snatch hooks, and manually operated spears, spearguns, crossbows, pre-charged pneumatic airbows and bows with projectiles attached to a restraining line. Expand/Collapse What were alligator hunting hours before the Commission approved 24-hour hunting? Each trapper will be assigned to one of four periods based on availability and on the order of preference that they indicated on their application. (a) Alligators may only be taken in accordance with the provisions of the harvest permit. Still, since 1988, Floridas alligator harvest program has been nationally and internationally recognized as a model program for the sustainable use of a natural resource.. New Rules for the Statewide Alligator Harvest Program | FWC To maintain the alligator population's stability, Florida enforces strict size and bag limits. You must be on foot to attempt to take one of these reptiles. Persons licensed pursuant to Section 379.3751, F.S., as alligator farmers and their licensed alligator farming agents; Persons licensed pursuant to Section 379.3751, F.S., as alligator meat processors and their employees; and. 68A-25.052 Regulations Governing the Processing of Alligators and the Sale of Alligator Meat and Parts. It was found in Orange Lake in Alachua County. Alligator hunting in Florida: Permits, daytime trapping, license cost And depending on what . The licensed alligator farmer, alligator meat processor, or alligator hide buyer shall provide the Commission with at least a 14-day notice of intent to cut a CITES-tagged hide(s) into pieces indicating the date when the hide(s) will be cut and the number of pieces the hide(s) will be cut. Contact the appropriate city, county, or water management district in the county where you are permitted and ask about the specific area that you would like to hunt. Report fish kills, wildlife emergencies, sightings, etc. The answer is yes, but with some important restrictions. To hunt alligators in Florida, you must have a valid alligator hunting permit and be at least 18 years of age. There are many other changes not listed here. In general, alligators must be at least 4 feet in length to be harvested. The FWC established an annual statewide recreational alligator harvest opportunity in 1988 that has been recognized as a model program for the sustainable use of a renewable natural resource. (1) Establishment of alligator management units and harvest quotas: (a) Management units comprised of specified wetlands, lakes, rivers or other water bodies that may be reasonably grouped for the purposes of study, analysis or management and that are suitable for harvest based on habitat characteristics, accessibility, and estimated alligator densities shall be established by the executive director or his designee. You can expect to see 5 to 25 alligators a day that range from 5 foot to 13 foot plus on your hunt. When applying for an Alligator Trapping License, hunters must specify their preferred hunting zone(s). In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the hunting regulations specific to alligator hunting in the beautiful state of Florida. At the FWC's May 2022 meeting, Commissioners approved the following rule amendments related to the statewide alligator harvest program. Any additional days needed to complete the hide cutting process shall proceed only after obtaining prior written approval from the Commission. They may include fines, loss of hunting privileges, and even imprisonment. Expand/Collapse When will the opportunity to use airbows take effect? Some countywide alligator harvest units allow alligators to be taken on specific WMAs. 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The FWC has strict guidelines in place to ensure the safety of both hunters and alligators. Now, hunters can also use airbows and tethered arrows to legally take gators down. The specific penalties will depend on the severity of the offense and any previous violations. Current News Commission Message Approved Rule Changes for 2022-2023 Hunting Seasons FWC Proposed Rule Changes All About Hunting General Information Hunter Safety Requirement Taking game Season Dates and Bag Limits by Zone Hunting Zone Maps Youth & Family Hunting Opportunities
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