Top Hunting Place in Hollywood, Florida

May 17, 2025

Introduction to Hunting in Hollywood, Florida

Hollywood, Florida, renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant lifestyle, also offers an unexpected delight for outdoor enthusiasts — exceptional hunting opportunities. While the city itself is a bustling urban center, the surrounding areas feature expansive preserves, wetlands, and wildlife management zones perfect for hunters seeking adventure and success. We invite you to discover the best hunting locations near Hollywood, Florida, along with essential tips, game species information, and seasonal insights.

Top Public and Private Hunting Lands Near Hollywood, Florida

Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area

Located just west of Hollywood, the Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area spans over 671,000 acres of protected wetlands. This massive tract offers abundant hunting opportunities, particularly for white-tailed deer, wild hogs, and various waterfowl species. Access points are plentiful, and the area is known for its challenging yet rewarding hunting experiences. The terrain consists mainly of marshes and sloughs, requiring airboats or shallow-draft boats for optimal navigation during hunting seasons.

Main Species: White-tailed deer, wild hogs, ducks, snipe
Best Time to Hunt: Fall and winter months
Permit Requirements: Florida hunting license and WMA permit

Top Public and Private Hunting Lands Near Hollywood, Florida

Rotenberger Wildlife Management Area

Another hidden gem, the Rotenberger WMA, offers nearly 29,000 acres of prime hunting territory. Located within an hour’s drive from Hollywood, it is part of the historic Everglades ecosystem and features a mix of sawgrass marshes and tree islands. This WMA is ideal for small game hunting, such as rabbits and squirrels, and also attracts seasoned hunters during waterfowl season.

Main Species: Ducks, rabbits, squirrels
Best Time to Hunt: Waterfowl season (late fall to early winter)

Big Cypress National Preserve

Just a short drive west, the Big Cypress National Preserve delivers an unrivaled wilderness experience for hunters. Covering over 729,000 acres, this preserve provides opportunities for hunting white-tailed deer, wild hogs, and turkeys. Due to the rugged and swampy conditions, Big Cypress requires hunters to be well-prepared and skilled in navigating challenging environments.

Main Species: White-tailed deer, wild hogs, turkey
Best Time to Hunt: Fall (deer season), spring (turkey season)
Special Regulations: Check federal guidelines for hunting in national preserves

Top Private Hunting Ranches Near Hollywood, Florida

Okeechobee Outfitters

For hunters seeking a premium guided experience, Okeechobee Outfitters offers world-class hunting on private land about two hours north of Hollywood. This outfitter specializes in trophy wild boar, Osceola turkey, and alligator hunts. Packages often include lodging, meals, and experienced guides who know the terrain intimately.

Highlight: Trophy wild boar and Osceola turkey hunts
Best Time to Hunt: Year-round for hogs; spring for turkey
Amenities: Lodging, meals, trophy processing

Florida Hunting Adventures

Located in the heart of South Florida, Florida Hunting Adventures provides private ranch hunting for a variety of species, including axis deer, blackbuck antelope, and wild hogs. The controlled environment increases the likelihood of a successful hunt, and hunters can customize packages to suit their goals.

Highlight: Exotic species hunting
Best Time to Hunt: Year-round
Special Offerings: Corporate group hunts and family packages

Species You Can Hunt Near Hollywood, Florida

White-tailed Deer

The white-tailed deer is one of the most sought-after game animals in Florida. Public lands around Hollywood offer plentiful opportunities to pursue these elusive creatures. Hunters should pay close attention to local regulations regarding antler point restrictions and seasonal bag limits.

Wild Hogs

An invasive species with no closed season, wild hogs are abundant in South Florida. These animals provide a thrilling hunting experience and are often targeted on both public WMAs and private lands.

Waterfowl

Waterfowl enthusiasts can take advantage of Hollywood’s proximity to marshes and wetlands, hunting species such as mottled ducks, blue-winged teal, and wood ducks. Scouting before the season and understanding water levels is crucial for success.

Osceola Turkey

Exclusive to Florida, the Osceola turkey is a prized wild game bird among hunters nationwide. Known for its elusive nature and sharp eyesight, hunting Osceola turkeys requires patience, skill, and a bit of luck.

Small Game

Squirrels, rabbits, and doves are plentiful throughout South Florida’s hunting lands. These species offer excellent hunting opportunities for beginners and a chance to hone shooting skills.

Hunting Seasons and Regulations in South Florida

Understanding the seasons and regulations is critical before heading out. South Florida operates under unique hunting zones:

Archery Season: Typically begins in late July
Muzzleloading Gun Season: Starts in early September
General Gun Season: Runs from mid-September to late January
Spring Turkey Season: March to April
Waterfowl Season: Varies, typically November to January

All hunters must hold a valid Florida hunting license, appropriate permits for specific WMAs, and adhere to all state and federal regulations.

Essential Tips for Hunting Near Hollywood, Florida

Scout Early: Visit hunting locations before the season opens to understand the terrain and wildlife movement patterns.
Prepare for Wet Conditions: Much of South Florida hunting requires navigating marshes and wet areas. Proper gear, such as waterproof boots and light boats, is essential.
Bring Bug Protection: Mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent in South Florida’s hunting environments. Insect repellent and protective clothing is highly recommended.
Respect Wildlife Regulations: Follow bag limits, species protections, and ethical hunting practices to ensure the sustainability of the region’s natural resources.
Use Local Guides: Hiring local outfitters can dramatically increase the chances of a successful hunt, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with South Florida’s unique ecosystem.
Invest in Quality Gear: Protect your firearms during transport with durable Tactical Soft Rifle Cases, especially when trekking through rugged or wet environments.

Final Thoughts

Hollywood, Florida, may be famous for its beaches and nightlife, but it also serves as a strategic gateway to some of South Florida’s finest hunting territories. Whether you’re seeking the challenge of public land hunting in the Everglades or prefer the comfort of a guided private ranch experience, there’s something for every hunter just a short drive away. With preparation, knowledge, and respect for the land, you can enjoy a truly memorable hunt near Hollywood, Florida.