Top Hunting Place in St. Petersburg, Florida

When it comes to outdoor adventure and thrilling hunting experiences, St. Petersburg, Florida offers access to some of the most diverse and rewarding hunting grounds in the state. Nestled on Florida’s Gulf Coast, this city serves as a perfect launching point for hunters seeking game across forests, wetlands, and nearby reserves. Whether targeting waterfowl, deer, or hogs, the region around St. Petersburg presents a rich variety of opportunities.

Why St. Petersburg, Florida, is a Prime Destination for Hunters

The surrounding environment of St. Petersburg blends coastal marshes, freshwater wetlands, and inland forests, creating a habitat that supports a wide range of game species. Hunters can explore both public and private lands, many of which are carefully managed to maintain healthy populations of whitetail deer, wild hogs, turkey, quail, and waterfowl. Proximity to multiple wildlife management areas (WMAs) ensures that hunters can experience both day trips and extended expeditions without traveling far from the city.

Best Public Hunting Lands Near St. Petersburg

1. Green Swamp Wildlife Management Area

Located just under an hour’s drive from St. Petersburg, Green Swamp WMA spans over 50,000 acres and is renowned for its trophy-sized whitetail deer and healthy populations of wild hogs. Green Swamp is a must-visit for hunters seeking an authentic Florida wilderness experience. The area offers archery, muzzleloading gun, general gun, and spring turkey seasons, with permits often awarded through limited entry quota hunts to ensure conservation.

Key species:

• Whitetail deer
  
• Wild hogs
  
• Osceola turkey
  
• Small game (squirrels, rabbits)
  

Amenities:

• Primitive camping
  
• Designated hunting areas
  
• Well-marked trails
  

2. Upper Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area

A hidden gem just northeast of Tampa, Upper Hillsborough WMA provides hunters with opportunities for both small and big game hunting. Spanning over 5,000 acres, this area features hardwood hammocks, swamps, and pine flatwoods. Hunters favor it for its accessibility and the diversity of game.

Key species:

• White-tailed deer
  
• Wild hogs
  
• Waterfowl
  
• Dove
  

Hunting tips:

• Water levels can vary seasonally; waterproof boots are strongly recommended.
  
• Early scouting ensures better stand selection.
  

3. Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area

Although slightly farther north, Chassahowitzka WMA offers some of the most beautiful and untouched hunting grounds accessible from St. Petersburg. Known for its dense forests and marshlands, it supports a wide range of wildlife. Bowhunting is particularly popular here due to the thick cover and close-quarter nature of many encounters.

Key species:

• Osceola turkey
  
• White-tailed deer
  
• Feral hogs
  
• Small game and waterfowl
  

Unique features:

• Exceptional spring turkey hunting
  
• Opportunities for year-round wild hog hunting
  

Top Private Hunting Ranches and Outfitters

 

1. G5 Outdoors Hunting Ranch

Located just a short drive north of St. Petersburg, G5 Outdoors provides a high-quality hunting experience on private land. Hunters can pursue trophy bucks, exotics, and wild hogs, with fully guided packages that include lodging and meals. G5 is ideal for those looking to maximize their success with expert local knowledge.

Offerings:

• Trophy whitetail hunts
  
• Hog hunts (day and night options)
  
• Corporate and group packages
  

Amenities:

• Luxury lodging
  
• Guided hunts with game cleaning services
  
• Access to premium hunting equipment
  

2. Trophy Hammock Outfitters

For hunters craving an authentic Florida hunting experience, Trophy Hammock Outfitters specializes in wild hog and Osceola turkey hunts on thousands of acres of private land. They offer fully guided and semi-guided hunts, making them an excellent choice for both seasoned and novice hunters.

Highlights:

• No trophy fees on hog hunts
  
• Dog-hunting and stand-hunting options
  
• High success rates for turkey during spring season
  

Most Popular Game to Hunt Near St. Petersburg

Whitetail Deer

The Florida whitetail deer may be smaller compared to their northern counterparts, but the challenge and thrill of a successful hunt make it highly rewarding. Key deer hunting seasons include archery (early fall), muzzleloading, and general gun seasons.

Wild Hogs

Wild hogs are abundant year-round in Florida, and hunting them requires no closed season on private lands. Hunters enjoy the adrenaline of both spot-and-stalk and stand hunts. Wild hog hunting also offers an excellent opportunity for night hunting using thermal scopes at participating outfitters.

Osceola Turkey

Florida’s Osceola turkey is a prized subspecies coveted by hunters aiming to complete their Grand Slam. The spring turkey season is highly anticipated, and permits are limited for public lands, making private outfitter hunts an attractive alternative.

Waterfowl and Small Game

Marshes, lakes, and rivers around St. Petersburg create prime waterfowl hunting environments. Ducks, coots, and other migratory birds are common during the winter season. Meanwhile, small game like squirrels and rabbits provide excellent opportunities for younger or beginner hunters.

Essential Hunting Tips for St. Petersburg Hunters

• Secure Necessary Licenses: Florida hunting requires a state license and species-specific permits. Always check current regulations through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
  
• Scout Early: Familiarity with the terrain increases success rates. Visit hunting areas beforehand to identify trails, bedding zones, and feeding areas.
  
• Weather Awareness: Florida weather can change rapidly. Pack lightweight rain gear and monitor local forecasts.
  
• Use Scent Control: Particularly for deer and hog hunting, minimizing human scent can dramatically improve your odds.
  
• Respect Conservation Rules: Following bag limits and area-specific regulations helps preserve the local game populations for future hunters.
  
• Invest in Quality Gear: Protect your firearms during transit with durable Tactical Soft Rifle Cases to ensure they’re ready for action in the field.
  
  

Best Time of Year for Hunting in St. Petersburg

• Deer Season: August through January, varying by zone and weapon choice.
  
• Turkey Season: Spring (March-April) for Osceola gobblers.
  
• Hog Hunting: Year-round on private land; check public land rules.
  
• Waterfowl Season: Typically from late November through January.
  

Planning hunts around the prime seasons increases both success rates and the quality of the overall hunting experience.

Final Thoughts: St. Petersburg as a Gateway to Florida’s Finest Hunts

St. Petersburg is more than just beaches and cultural attractions; it is a strategic hub for hunters seeking the thrill of the chase amidst Florida’s dynamic landscapes. With proximity to top WMAs, private hunting ranches, and abundant game species, hunters of all experience levels can find memorable adventures just a short drive from the city. Preparing ahead, respecting local regulations, and choosing the right spots based on your desired game will ensure every trip is a success.