Top Hunting Place in Miramar, Florida

Top Hunting Place in Miramar, Florida

Located in the heart of South Florida, Miramar offers a surprising blend of suburban charm and access to some of the region’s most rewarding hunting experiences. While the city itself is urbanized, a short drive reveals rich wetlands, wildlife management areas, and sprawling hunting grounds ideal for both beginners and seasoned hunters. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top hunting places near Miramar, Florida, complete with expert insights, species availability, seasonal timing, and practical tips.


Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area – A South Florida Hunting Icon

The Everglades and Francis S. Taylor WMA is the premier hunting destination near Miramar. Stretching over 671,000 acres, this vast ecosystem offers unmatched biodiversity and hunting opportunities.

What You Can Hunt:

  • White-tailed deer
  • Feral hogs
  • Waterfowl (ducks and geese)
  • Small game (rabbits, squirrels)
  • Mourning doves

Best Time to Visit:
Deer and hog seasons typically run from late summer to early winter, while waterfowl hunting peaks between November and January.

Pro Tips:

  • This area is largely wetland and marsh, so airboats and swamp buggies are commonly used.
  • Always check water levels and flood zone warnings before heading out.
  • Permits and licenses are strictly enforced. Make sure to obtain your WMA permit and quota hunt permit if required.

Holey Land Wildlife Management Area – A Hidden Gem for Hog and Deer Hunters

Located just northwest of Miramar, the Holey Land WMA covers 35,000 acres and is known for its relatively low hunting pressure compared to other nearby areas.

Target Species:

  • Wild hogs
  • White-tailed deer
  • Ducks and coots (in season)

Habitat & Terrain:

  • A mix of sawgrass marshes, tree islands, and wet prairies.
  • Ideal for walk-in hunts, though ATV access is allowed in designated areas.

Hunting Strategy:

  • Wild hogs are most active at dawn and dusk. Set up near water edges and hardwood hammocks.
  • Use climbing tree stands for deer to spot movement over brush lines.
  • For easy transport of your gear in this mixed terrain, consider durable Tactical Soft Rifle Cases to protect firearms while maintaining mobility.

Rotenberger Wildlife Management Area – Pristine Wilderness for Bowhunters

If you're a bowhunter seeking peace, quiet, and true immersion in nature, Rotenberger WMA is your destination. Located west of Miramar, it spans over 30,000 acres and is accessible during archery-only hunting and limited firearm seasons.

Game You’ll Find:

  • Deer
  • Hogs
  • Waterfowl
  • Snipe and doves

Unique Features:

  • Known for its tough terrain, making it more suitable for experienced hunters.
  • Limited motorized access ensures less crowding and more pristine hunting conditions.

Best Time to Hunt:

  • Early archery season for deer runs late August through September.
  • Waterfowl and snipe are active from November to January.

Dinner Island Ranch Wildlife Management Area – A Quota Hunt Paradise

About an hour from Miramar, Dinner Island Ranch WMA in Hendry County is well worth the drive. This 21,000-acre ranch offers well-managed quota hunts that provide a fair chance at quality game.

Species Overview:

  • Deer and wild hogs
  • Doves and turkeys
  • Occasional quail sightings

Terrain:

  • A mix of open fields, flatwoods, and pine forests—perfect for stalking or stand hunting.
  • Easier to navigate than the Everglades’ dense wetlands.

Tips for Success:

  • Scout beforehand—the area changes seasonally with vegetation growth.
  • Opt for quiet camouflage gear and scent control tactics in this open terrain.

Big Cypress National Preserve – A Vast and Rugged Frontier

For the adventurous soul, Big Cypress offers over 700,000 acres of rugged wilderness open to regulated hunting. It’s farther than other destinations, but its remoteness is part of the appeal.

Available Game:

  • Whitetail deer
  • Wild hogs
  • Turkeys
  • Waterfowl
  • Small game

Notable Details:

  • Split into three management units with different rules—Bear Island, Stairsteps, and Corn Dance.
  • Hunters can access remote sections via off-road vehicles, with permits.

Challenge Level:
This preserve requires patience, endurance, and excellent navigation skills. It’s ideal for experienced hunters seeking solitude and challenge.

Miramar Pineland Park – Local Archery Practice Grounds

Though not a hunting ground, Miramar Pineland Park is a valuable asset for sharpening your skills. Located within city limits, this urban park offers:

  • Archery practice ranges
  • Nature trails, wildlife viewing areas
  • Family-friendly setting for outdoor education

Use it to hone your bow skills, scout native species, or introduce youth to ethical wildlife practices.

Important Regulations and Licensing for Hunting Near Miramar

Before heading out, hunters must adhere to all Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations.

What You’ll Need:

  • Florida hunting license
  • WMA permit (if required for your chosen area)
  • Quota hunt application (for limited-entry hunts)
  • Migratory bird permit (if waterfowl hunting)

Safety and Legal Reminders:

  • Always wear hunter orange during gun seasons.
  • Follow bag limits and season dates strictly.
  • Check area-specific rules before entry—some require check-ins or daily quotas.

Final Thoughts: Miramar’s Strategic Hunting Access

Miramar, Florida, may not seem like a hunting hub at first glance, but its central location provides quick access to some of the best public hunting lands in South Florida. Whether you're tracking a buck in the Everglades, stalking hogs in Holey Land, or heading west for a remote Big Cypress adventure, you'll find diverse habitats, abundant game, and opportunities for all skill levels.

Take time to scout your area, plan your gear, and ensure your licenses are in order—then immerse yourself in the thrill of the hunt just outside Miramar.