Top Hunting Places in Pompano Beach, Florida

Top Hunting Places in Pompano Beach, Florida

Pompano Beach, Florida, is more than a paradise for beach lovers—it’s also an excellent hub for outdoor enthusiasts and hunters who are eager to experience Florida’s diverse ecosystems. Located near some of the most game-rich lands in South Florida, Pompano Beach provides easy access to both public and private hunting grounds with opportunities ranging from wild hog and white-tailed deer to small game and migratory birds. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to the sport, this guide explores the top hunting places, regulations, and best practices for an unforgettable experience.

Best Public Hunting Areas Near Pompano Beach


1. J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

Located just under two hours from Pompano Beach, J.W. Corbett WMA spans more than 60,000 acres of pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and wet prairies. This state-managed hunting area is teeming with game and supports a wide range of seasons and species.

Game Available:

  • White-tailed deer
  • Wild hogs
  • Turkeys
  • Small game including squirrels and raccoons

Best Season: Deer season (archery and muzzleloader), wild hogs year-round with no bag limit.

Permit Requirements: A WMA permit, along with appropriate licenses for specific game, are required.

2. Holey Land Wildlife Management Area

Approximately 90 minutes west of Pompano Beach, Holey Land WMA offers prime waterfowl and hog hunting. It's a favorite among locals due to its accessibility and productivity during hunting season.

Terrain: Open marshes, cypress strands, and levees provide a challenging yet rewarding terrain for hunters.

Game Available:

  • Ducks and other waterfowl
  • Wild hogs
  • Occasional deer

Regulations: Water levels dictate access—check local conditions before planning your trip.

3. Rotenberger Wildlife Management Area

Adjacent to Holey Land WMA, Rotenberger WMA offers similar terrain with a focus on muzzleloader and general gun season for deer. It is less crowded, providing a quieter hunting experience.

Highlights:

  • Ideal for solitude and deep-woods hunting
  • Access via levees or airboat in flooded season

Species:

  • Deer
  • Hog
  • Duck (seasonal)

Private Hunting Clubs and Leases Near Pompano Beach


1. South Florida Hog Hunting

This family-owned outfitter operates on privately leased land in nearby counties, offering guided hog hunts with no trophy fees. It’s a great option for beginners looking for a guaranteed harvest experience.

Services Include:

  • Day or night hog hunts
  • Tree stand or ground blind options
  • Equipment rental and processing available

Bonus: Year-round availability with no license needed on private land—check updated Florida laws.

2. Cypress Creek Hunting Lodge

A short drive from Pompano Beach, Cypress Creek specializes in full-service hunting experiences that include lodging, meals, and expert guides. Their land supports deer, turkey, and hog hunts in a serene and well-managed environment.

Amenities:

  • Lodging on-site
  • Cleaning stations
  • Scouting reports and pre-hunt briefings

Why It’s Popular: High success rates and luxury-level service make it ideal for both casual and corporate hunting trips.

What to Hunt: Seasonal Breakdown for Pompano Beach Hunters

White-Tailed Deer

Best Time: Archery in late summer, general gun season in fall
Location: Corbett WMA, Rotenberger WMA
Tips: Focus on transition zones between feeding and bedding areas. Early morning and late evening yield the best movement.

Wild Hogs

Best Time: Year-round
Location: Holey Land WMA, South Florida Hog Hunting
Tips: Look for fresh rooting and wallows near water sources. Night hunts with thermal optics are highly effective.

Turkeys

Best Time: Spring turkey season (March–April)
Location: Corbett WMA
Tips: Early scouting is essential. Mimicking hen calls at dawn improves odds of encountering dominant toms.

Ducks and Migratory Birds

Best Time: Winter (November–January)
Location: Holey Land WMA, Rotenberger WMA
Tips: Bring decoys and a call; early positioning before sunrise is crucial. Watch for updated bag limits and water levels.

Licenses, Tags, and Regulations

Florida requires a hunting license and may also require WMA permits, migratory bird permits, or archery/muzzleloader endorsements, depending on the species.

Where to Buy:

  • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website
  • Authorized vendors throughout Broward and Palm Beach County

Key Rules:

  • Always check season dates and bag limits before heading out
  • Blaze orange requirements apply during deer gun seasons
  • Respect no-hunt zones and property boundaries

Essential Gear for South Florida Hunting

  • Lightweight camouflage or breathable blaze orange
  • Snake boots and gaiters for swamp terrain
  • Insect repellent (mosquitoes are relentless in wet seasons)
  • Optics: Binoculars or night vision/thermal for hog hunts
  • GPS or app-based mapping: OnX Hunt or HuntStand
  • Coolers: For preserving harvested game meat in hot weather

Pro Tips for a Successful Hunt in Pompano Beach

  • Scout with satellite imagery to identify game trails, bedding areas, and water sources
  • Arrive early to beat crowds, especially on public land
  • Use game cameras if you're returning to the same WMA frequently
  • Always have a backup plan, especially when navigating flood-prone areas

Conclusion: Why Pompano Beach Is a Hidden Gem for Hunters

Pompano Beach may not immediately come to mind when discussing Florida’s best hunting destinations, but its proximity to top-tier public lands, year-round game opportunities, and affordable access make it a must-visit location for hunters of all skill levels. From stalking wild hogs under moonlight to calling turkeys at sunrise, South Florida’s wild side is alive and well just beyond the suburbs of Pompano.