Top Hunting Place in Miami, Florida

Miami may be best known for its beaches, nightlife, and vibrant cultural scene—but beyond the city limits lies a hidden paradise for hunters. South Florida’s diverse ecosystems offer year-round opportunities for those seeking big game, exotic species, and waterfowl adventures. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best hunting locations in and around Miami, Florida, detailing everything from public lands to exclusive private ranches, seasonal game availability, and expert hunting tips.

Best Public Hunting Lands Near Miami, FL

Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area

The Everglades and Francis S. Taylor WMA is one of the largest public hunting areas in South Florida, spanning over 671,000 acres. Located just a short drive west of Miami, this area offers prime opportunities for hog hunting, deer hunting, and waterfowl hunting.

Key Game Available:

• White-tailed deer
  
• Wild hogs
  
• Mourning doves
  
• Ducks (especially during waterfowl season)
  

Noteworthy Info: Much of the area is only accessible by airboat, so hunters with the right equipment gain access to more secluded, high-yield zones. Be sure to check seasonal regulations and obtain a WMA permit through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Top Private Hunting Ranches Around Miami

 

Osceola Outfitters – Private Land Hunts for Osceola Turkeys and Hogs

Located north of Miami, Osceola Outfitters specializes in trophy Osceola turkey hunting, a bucket-list hunt for many hunters completing their Grand Slam. This private land also offers hog hunts year-round, with stand and spot-and-stalk options.

Why It’s Exceptional:

• Low-pressure hunting environment
  
• Guided and semi-guided options
  
• Comfortable accommodations and meals included
  

Trophy Hammock Hunt Club – Exotic and Native Game

Situated in central Florida but still within easy reach for Miami hunters seeking an extended trip, Trophy Hammock Hunt Club provides guided hunts for axis deer, blackbuck, and native whitetails. With over 1,000 acres of private land, it offers a luxury hunting experience complete with cabins and expert guides.

Available Species:

• Axis deer
  
• Blackbuck antelope
  
• Florida whitetail deer
  
• Wild hogs
  

This location is ideal for hunters looking to combine sport, comfort, and the chance to take home rare exotic trophies.

Duck Hunting Near Miami: Where to Go

 

Holey Land Wildlife Management Area

Situated adjacent to the Francis S. Taylor WMA, the Holey Land WMA is a hotspot for duck hunting. The area is renowned for attracting large flocks of blue-winged teal, ring-necked ducks, and mottled ducks, especially during peak migration seasons.

Best Time to Hunt: November through January.

Hunting Tip: Bring a flat-bottom boat and decoys for optimal success. Early morning setups boost chances of success.

Alligator Hunting in South Florida

For adrenaline-seekers, alligator hunting offers one of the most thrilling challenges in Florida. Permits are awarded by lottery via the FWC’s statewide program.

Best Places Near Miami for Alligator Hunts:

• Lake Okeechobee (northwest of Miami)
  
• Big Cypress National Preserve
  

Season: Mid-August through early November.

Note: Alligator hunts require a special license and tags, and often benefit from hiring a licensed guide.

Wild Hog Hunting Year-Round

One of the best aspects of hunting in Florida is the year-round availability of wild hog hunting. These invasive species and can be hunted without a closed season on both public and private lands.

Where to Hunt Wild Hogs Near Miami:

• Big Cypress WMA
  
• Private land via outfitters such as Swamp N Stalk
  

Recommended Gear: Thermal optics for night hunts, as many outfitters offer night hog hunts, which are effective and thrilling.

Osceola Turkey: The Florida Grand Slam Trophy

Unique to Florida, the Osceola turkey is a coveted prize for serious turkey hunters. These birds are found only in the southern half of the state, and the Miami region serves as a base for trips into prime habitats.

Best Time to Hunt: March through April.

Permit Requirements:

• Hunting license
  
• Turkey permit
  
• WMA permit (if on public land)
  

Top Location for Osceola Turkey Near Miami:

• Dinner Island Ranch WMA
  
• Private ranches west of Lake Okeechobee
  

Planning Your Miami Hunting Trip: What You Need to Know

 

Licenses and Permits

To legally hunt in Florida, especially near Miami, you’ll need:

• Florida Hunting license
  
• WMA permit (for public land access)
  
• Species-specific permits (e.g., turkey, alligator)
  

Licenses are available from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Best Times to Hunt in South Florida

• Deer: Late September through early January
  
• Duck: November through January
  
• Hog: Year-round
  
• Turkey: Spring season (March–April)
  
• Gator: August–November
  

Expert Hunting Tips for South Florida Terrain

• Invest in waterproof gear: The terrain can get wet and muddy quickly, especially in swampy WMAs.
  
• Bring mosquito repellent: Mosquitoes in South Florida are relentless—especially in warmer months.
  
• Scout before the season: If hunting public lands, spend time learning the area to improve success rates.
  
• Go guided for your first trip in the Everglades: The landscape is vast and often treacherous for first-timers.
  

Conclusion: Miami Is More Than Beaches—It’s a Hunter’s Paradise

From swamps teeming with wild hogs and waterfowl to private ranches offering exotic species and Osceola turkeys, Miami, Florida, stands out as a premier hunting destination in the southeastern United States. Whether you're a local sportsman or visiting on a dedicated hunting trip, the region’s wildlife diversity and accessibility make it a must-visit spot.

Prepare thoroughly and follow regulations, and experience the wild side of South Florida like never before.