The purpose of a tethered arrow when alligator hunting with an airbow is the same as using an arrow with a crossbow the line is intended to ensure the animal can be retrieved and brought alongside the boat for dispatch. ACTION: Proposed rule. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved a set of proposed updates for statewide gator hunting during the season. Furthermore, hunters may choose between different permit types, such as Private Lands Alligator Farmer, Public Waters Alligator Farmer, or General Alligator Trapping Agent, depending on their specific circumstances and preferences. The heaviest alligator found in the state was a bit shorter, at 13-feet, 10.5-inches long, weighing 1,043 pounds. 1998 - 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. | All Rights Reserved. They may include fines, loss of hunting privileges, and even imprisonment. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS or Service), are proposing to amend regulations concerning American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) by revising provisions pertaining to interstate and foreign commerce.We are proposing these changes to increase clarity and eliminate unnecessary . (b) All alligator meat purchased shall remain in the original package until the meat is re-processed or prepared for consumption, and packages shall be used to package meat only one time. A valid credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, or Discover) must be included with each application and the card will be pre-authorized and charged automatically if the applicant is successful in the drawing. Note: All sales are final and there will be no refunds available or offered for successful applicants. How many alligators can you take? (c) Only non-hatchling alligators may be taken. Therefore, it is advisable to submit your application well in advance. However, the state has implemented regulations to address these concerns and ensure that hunting is done in a safe and sustainable manner. The state agency is asking the public to provide input on the changes online. The fee for additional alligator harvest permits, if available, is $62 regardless of . Now, hunters can also use airbows and tethered arrows to legally take gators down. 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. Hunters must obtain a permit and follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety of both the hunters and the alligators. 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. There are also many animals that you can hunt with a license, such as bear, alligator, and moose. Watch on Alligator Harvest Training and Orientation Video Take the FREE Alligator Harvest Training and Orientation video course to learn about rules and regulations, equipment and methods, safety, processing tips, and more. Persons licensed pursuant to Section 379.364, F.S., as alligator hide buyers and their employees. Requirements to Apply:Applicants must be 18 years old by August 15. It has a mild flavor and can be substituted in most recipes for chicken, pork, veal, or fish. Copyright 1999 - 2023 State of Florida. 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. However, there are also size restrictions on the maximum length of alligators that can be harvested. Alligator hunting in Florida: Permits, daytime trapping, license cost 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. In the event such violation involves the unauthorized taking of an endangered crocodilian species, no license shall be issued for 10 years subsequent to the conviction. Alligator hunting season for Florida is held from August 15 to November 1 each year, and crocodile hunting season is held from November 1 to April 30. The answer is not as straightforward as you might think, and there are several rules and regulations that hunters need to follow to avoid breaking the law. (a) Alligators may only be taken in accordance with the provisions of the harvest permit. Home Journal & News Alligator Harvesting: Hunting as a Regulatory Tool for Species Management Vol. (1) Alligators captured using the following methods must be killed immediately. How Many Alligator Tags Are Issued In Louisiana. What methods can you use to take alligators? Can I hunt in that river? Receipts, temporary license numbers, and printed copies of Internet pages may not be used as a Statewide Alligator Hunt permit. The arrow would have to be attached to a restraining line tethered to an airbow or boat. PDF AND ASSOCIATED STATUTES 2022-2023 - Florida Fish and Wildlife Hunters must obtain a permit and follow all regulations set forth by the FWC, including size restrictions, bag limits, and hunting methods. Which is the healthier option: plastic or glass? Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to the sport, understanding the regulations is vital to ensuring a safe and successful alligator hunt. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Farris Bryant Building Applicants who are awarded a permit must pay for two CITES tags and an Alligator Trapping License, or provide proof of possession of an Alligator Trapping License valid through the end of the alligator harvest season. Report fish kills, wildlife emergencies, sightings, etc. Report injured, orphaned or dead manatees, Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network. FLORIDA The application period for 2022 Phase 1 alligator hunting permits is now underway and continues until May 16. We will identify the best location for your hunt based on when the hunt is scheduled in accordance with state . 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. In this article, we will explore the rules and regulations surrounding alligator hunting in Florida. In addition, alligator hunting is a traditional practice in many parts of the state and is an important part of the culture and history of Florida. (5) Nothing herein shall prohibit the executive director from establishing special restrictions or exemptions from this rule for the purpose of conducting experimental alligator harvests on designated areas pursuant to Rule 68A-9.002, F.A.C. Guide to Alligator Hunting in Florida | FWC - Florida Fish and Wildlife The size restrictions for hunting alligators in Florida are set by the FWC. Florida may allow 24-hour-a-day alligator hunting - Sun Sentinel When is the alligator hunting season? In addition, you must have completed an approved alligator hunting course. Each applicant may make up to 12 choices on an application in Phase I and II, up to five choices on an application in the Phase III, and one choice per application in Phase IV Leftovers. Statewide Alligator Hunt Permit | FWC - Florida Fish and Wildlife The extra daylight hours are expected to help hunters navigate their boats and equipment, particularly when supervising youth or introducing new participants to alligator hunting, according to FWC. Instead, you must use a technique known as "the wooden peg method" where you wrap a wooden peg in bait. (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. Crocodile Hunting in Florida [Updated Rules And Regulations 2023] Providing evidence of possession of an alligator trapping license valid through the last day of the designated harvest season, or a current-year harvest permit, and paying $30 for each CITES tag, pursuant to Section 379.3752, F.S., issued with harvest permits. (c) Processing and storage facilities and all Commission required records shall be subject to inspection by Commission personnel during reasonable hours. The Alligator Trapping License/Permit and two CITES tags will be mailed to the successful applicants within six weeks of purchase. Copyright 1999 - 2023 State of Florida. (10) Manufactured goods wholly or partly composed of alligator hide, organs, teeth, or skull, or other skeletal material may only be sold in accordance with provisions of Rule 68A-25.002, F.A.C. (4) Not withstanding Rule 68A-4.002, F.A.C., a light may be used in conjunction with these methods of take. And depending on what . 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. Where to Hunt Alligators | Grand View Outdoors WHAT TO EXPECT! Firearms are not allowed except for the use of bang sticks. Rulemaking Authority Art. New strain of COVID warrants attention, WHO says, Rare, flesh-eating bacteria kills 5 in Tampa Bay, Opioids, obesity ranked as top health threats: poll, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Shortcuts When does gator season open in Florida? Report fish kills, wildlife emergencies, sightings, etc. It is strongly recommended that you know specific locations where you can legally harvest alligators in a county prior to applying for a countywide permit. An airbow is pre-charged pneumatic air gun that propels arrows. Each year, alligator management units are established with appropriate harvest quotas to provide recreational opportunities for Floridians and non-residents who are at least 18 years old to take up to 2 alligators per permit. How Long Is Alligator Season In Louisiana? If plastic is not an ideal container for beverages, should we be drinking water out of glass? The harvest tag, if issued, shall remain attached to the alligator until processing. Unused tags must also be returned to the FWC, and failure to comply may result in exclusion from participation in the statewide alligator program for a period of one year. Preparing for the Hunt | FWC - Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Each hide piece, once cut, shall immediately have affixed thereto a CITES tag provided pursuant to subparagraph 8(d)2., above, and the tags serial number recorded in association with the originating hides CITES tag number and the type of hide piece cut (flank, belly, tail, back, or chaleco). However, each permit allows the permit holder to have an unlimited number of properly licensed alligator trapping agents and alligator trapping license holders assist in the hunt. For information on hunting these lands, contact: Eglin Natural Resources, Jackson Guard, 107 Hwy. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Regulations Pertaining The permit holder must be present on the hunt and each assistant must either hold a valid Alligator Trapping License (for any harvest unit) or Alligator Trapping Agent License. If residency status changes the application must be cancelled and resubmitted with updated residency information (see How to Cancel or Change an Application below). (7) Provisions for the importation of alligator meat to Florida: (a) Meat shall be acquired and processed in accordance with the applicable health and sanitation requirements and laws of the state of origin. Spears and knives are always free to use! (c) For alligator hide pieces that are not intended for exporting from the United States, the following shall apply. 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. Expand/Collapse What is the benefit of using an airbow over a crossbow? (3) The use of baited hooks, gig-equipped bang sticks, or firearms for taking alligators is prohibited except that bang sticks are allowed for taking alligators attached to a restraining line. harvest period you draw, you will be allowed to hunt one of the first 4 weeks and the remaining 7 weeks of the season: Harvest Period Hunt Dates . Obtaining the necessary licenses, understanding hunting zones, and following size and bag limits are fundamental steps for responsible alligator hunting. 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. Harvest periods are: Participants who dont harvest both of their alligators during their assigned harvest week, may hunt during the open period, which runs Sept. 12 - Nov. 1. Generally, harvested alligators must be a minimum of four feet in length, measured from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail. It is important for hunters to check the specific regulations for the area in which they plan to hunt to ensure they are in compliance with the law. New public hunting area in Northwest Florida: Garcon Point Wildlife Management Area is 3,245 acres in Santa Rosa . Countywide alligator harvest unit information what is a "countywide alligator harvest unit?" hunting hours to 24 hours a day on most areas, a. Expand/Collapse What is the benefit of 24-hour hunting? (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. If one of our taxidermists is used, this will include getting your alligator to the taxidermist. 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. Permits may be denied, pursuant to Rule 68-1.010, F.A.C., to applicants who have previously failed to return unused tags and complete forms as specified herein. As a federally-designated threatened species, the American Alligator is protected by the Endangered Species Act. Hunting hours begin 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. The cost for those with a Florida Resident Persons with Disabilities Hunting and Fishing License is $22. 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. How long does gator season last in Florida? For more information, view the Executive Order. For ten (10) years following, if such conviction involves the taking of an endangered crocodilian species. We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. (f) The number of harvest permits issued per person shall be determined by the executive director or his designee. Public Hunting - Florida Hunting | eRegulations The FWC takes alligator hunting violations seriously and actively enforces the rules and regulations. Expand/Collapse What is the benefit of daylight hunting? Average size 8 to 10 feet. Florida Alligator Hunting - Razzor Ranch 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. The open period for the 2023-2024 alligator hunting season has been extended to 8 weeks, from Sept. 12 through Nov. 8, except for persons permitted to harvest alligators from select Alligator Management Units. The state agency said alligators were a conservation success story in Florida, with the reptile originally on the Federal Endangered Species List in 1967. Increase hunting hours from the current 17 hours a day to 24 hours a day on most areas. Providing evidence of possession of an alligator trapping license valid through the last day of the designated harvest season, or a current-year harvest permit, and paying $30 for each CITES tag, pursuant to Section 379.3752, F.S., issued with harvest permits. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulates alligator hunting and sets the rules and regulations for the sport. What is the benefit of using an airbow over a crossbow? Florida Alligator Hunts - Ross Hammock Ranch According to the commission, alligators begin courting mates in early April, before officially mating in May to June. 9, Fla. Who can participate? Reprints:Alligator Trapping Licenses and permits canonlybe reprinted by the FWC Office of Licensing and Permitting upon written request from the permit holder. Welcome to Find A Hunt, your ultimate source for all things hunting. As with most hunting, alligator hunting in Florida isn't just a free-for-all. Additionally, the FWC imposes a maximum bag limit, allowing each hunter to harvest only two alligators per permit. Any customers who request reprints must allow at least 10 business days to receive the replacement permit and tags. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For a period of ten (10) years preceding the date of application if such conviction involved the taking of an endangered crocodilian species. You must be on foot to attempt to take one of these reptiles. Florida alligator hunting offers an exhilarating and challenging experience for avid hunters. This information aids the FWC in collecting crucial data for managing the alligator population and habitat effectively. Florida Hunting - 2022 Seasons, Licenses & Maps Alligator Harvest Unit Maps Harvest units 101 - 112 Harvest units 115 - 306 Harvest units 401 To 417 Harvest units 500 - 515 The season typically runs from August 15th to November 1st each year, allowing hunters to pursue this magnificent reptile during its active months. Cost (All Sales are Final No Refunds):There is no cost to apply, but credit card information must be submitted with each application. Can the permitted countywide trapper give his permit and cites tags to someone else so that they can hunt alligators? Copyright 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. 2 February 2017 Pg 22 John K. Powell Animal Law "Never insult an alligator until after you have crossed the river."1 620 S. Meridian St. Tallahassee, FL (850) 488-4676 (c) Each package of imported alligator meat shall be labeled with a seal to identify the state of origin, the processor, the number of pounds of meat enclosed, and the date packaged. The use of airbows can benefit hunters with mobility challenges and youth or smaller framed hunters who may have limited dexterity or strength. Florida is home to a wide variety of alligators and they range from the smaller alligator species found in rivers and streams to the larger species found in water and swampy areas. For additional information, call 850-488-3831. Three military bases in Florida are open to public hunting. It is crucial for hunters to familiarize themselves with the boundaries and regulations specific to their chosen zone. 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. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the statewide alligator hunting season begins August 15 and ends November 1. Hunters must also follow specific guidelines for capturing and harvesting alligators. Each package shall be permanently labeled to indicate the name of the processor processing the alligator(s), the CITES tag number(s) from the alligator(s) from which the meat was taken, the date packaged, and the number of pounds of meat enclosed. Hunting Zones and Permits (approximately 100 words): Florida is divided into different hunting zones, each with its own quota and regulations. The harvest quota for a management unit shall be based on the best estimate of the number of alligators that can be removed from the unit without long-term adverse impacts on population levels. Welcome to "Find A Hunt," your go-to authority for all things hunting. The CITES tag shall remain attached to the alligator hide until the hide is tanned, taxidermy mounted, or exported from the state. 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. Handling feesmay also apply. The county I want to hunt has a river as a county boundary. In Florida You Can Hunt These Animals Without A License Editors note: This article has been updated to clarify the rules have not yet taken effect, and must have final approval by May 2022. Pursuant to section 120.74, Florida Statutes, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has published its2022 Agency Regulatory Plan. See a full list of our Social Media accounts, New Rules for the Statewide Alligator Harvest Program. (b) Applicants for a harvest permit shall: If you receive a countywide alligator harvest permit, you can hunt on any area that you can legally access in the specified county. 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 (a) Harvest permits may be applied for through the Commissions online licensing system at designated times and dates each year by: (b) Applicants for a harvest permit shall: (c) Harvest permits shall be issued upon determination that the applicant meets the requirements of this subsection. 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. All equipment and tag. (f) Alligators may only be taken in the area specified in the harvest permit. Those wishing to assist in this way canpurchase an Alligator Trapping Agent licensefor $52 anywhere licenses are sold. (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. (9) The feet, viscera or skeletal parts of lawfully acquired alligators may be retained or transferred provided that all transfers, with the exception of retail sales to the consumer, shall be documented in writing to indicate the kind and quantity of items and date transferred and the name and address of each recipient, and such records shall be maintained for a period of one year. SUMMARY: We, the U.S. The FWC sets specific dates for hunting season, which typically runs from August 15 to November 1. At the time of the random drawing an authorization check is done on all submitted cards to determine whether there are sufficient funds available if successful in the drawing. These USGS topographic maps are free to download by clicking on the"Map Locator Tool. Of course, this can leave you between a rock and a hard place because removing the alligator yourself may . WMAs where you can hunt can be found in the specific harvest unit description. FWC said airbows were not commercially available the last time harvest methods for alligators were updated. No. The harvest areas and hunt dates are specific for each permit, and the permit specifies the boundaries or limitations of the harvest area. Alligators are a common sight in the state of Florida, and many people are curious about whether it is legal to hunt them. You will be hunting with all weapons needed to insure we get your alligator. 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. HistoryNew 5-5-88, Amended 2-14-89, 4-11-90, 4-1-96, 9-15-96, 6-1-97, 4-12-98, 4-15-99, Formerly 39-25.052, Amended 4-30-00, 3-30-06, 9-13-20. Alligator Harvesting: Hunting as a Regulatory Tool - The Florida Bar This tagging process is essential for tracking the number of harvested alligators accurately. A CITES tag or Commission-approved tamperproof tag shall remain affixed to the hide piece until the hide piece is destroyed, tanned, taxidermy mounted, or exported from the state. Can I use a countywide permit to take alligators on private property? NOTE: Residents over 65 who have previously held a Florida Resident Persons with Disabilities Hunting and Fishing License and need to renew it should reach out to CustomerService@myfwc.com before applying for the statewide alligator harvest to avoid being charged $272. Importance of Residency at Time of Application: Residency status is established at the time of application and will be used throughout the issuance process. In conclusion, Florida offers an exciting alligator hunting experience, but it is essential to understand and comply with the state's regulations. If youre ready for a relaxing glamping trip, here are the best portable hot tubs. Alligator Trapping License/Permit/two CITES tags for Resident Disability Hunt/Fish License Holders: $22.00. It's a state you can pursue three native sub-species of whitetail deer (Florida coastal white-tailed deer, Florida white-tailed deer, and Florida Key deer), as well as alligators, wild hogs, and waterfowl. You can expect to see 5 to 25 alligators a day that range from 5 foot to 13 foot plus on your hunt. Written records of the number, source, and disposition of all alligator carcasses received, bought, sold, or transferred, including copies of Alligator Harvest Report Forms (FWC form 1001AT), shall be maintained for a period of one year following sale, transfer, or disposal of the carcass, meat, hides, or parts thereof. The harvest permit will specify the harvest period. Boat restrictions are regulated by local or regional government authorities. Get the Android Weather app from Google Play, Neighbors worried about wastewater spill cleanup, FACT FOCUS: Is Dodger Stadium flooded? How to Cancel or Change an Application: Applicants can opt to cancel a submitted application during the open application period for Phases I, II, and III. Please note STA harvest units and A-1 FEB are weekend only hunts. The increased hours would make gator hunting legal 24 hours a day in most areas, according to FWC. Many recognize the Florida alligator hunts offered by Ross Hammock Ranch to be the best available .
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