Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Hunting and Game Management

For assistance, call 850-488-3831 or visit https://myfwc.com/about/inside-fwc/hgm/

What is the purpose of the program?

The purpose of the commission's Hunting and Game Management Program is to facilitate the safe, responsible, and sustained use of Florida's wildlife.

What services are provided by the program?

The Hunting and Game Management Program's services include
  • coordinating the development and management of public hunting opportunities;
  • delivering hunter safety training and certification;
  • developing and managing public shooting ranges; and
  • providing scientific expertise to inform decisions on managing game wildlife species; and
  • communicating about hunting opportunities and programs to stakeholders.

Are there hunting opportunities on public lands?

The commission cooperatively manages public hunting opportunities on more than 6 million acres in its wildlife management area system. A person must possess a recreational hunting license (and other permits depending on the species and season) and a management area permit to hunt on wildlife management areas. There are licensing exemptions, including one for persons less than 16 years of age and more than 65 years of age.

Are hunters satisfied with their hunting experience?

For Fiscal Year 2021-22, commission data indicated that 68.5% of licensed deer hunters surveyed were satisfied with their deer hunting experience.

How are these activities funded?

Fiscal Year: 2023-24
Title Fund Dollars Positions
PROGRAM: WILDLIFE
HUNTING AND GAME MANAGEMENT
8,462,941
45.00
TOTAL
8,462,941
45.00

Updates

Expanding Hunting Opportunities. In 2023, the FWC, in cooperation with the area’s lead land manger, Northwest Florida Water Management District, is offering hunting opportunities at a new wildlife management area in northwest Florida. Garcon Point, a 3,245-acre area in Santa Rosa County, is offering hunting for deer, wild turkey, wild hog, migratory birds, and small game.

Where can I find related OPPAGA reports?

A complete list of related OPPAGA reports is available on our website.

Where can I get more information?

Other Reports
No Net Loss of Hunting Lands 2021-22 Annual Report, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Websites of Interest
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Inspector General
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Research Publications
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Strategic Plan
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Performance Information


Performance measures and standards for the department may be found in its Long Range Program Plan.

What are the applicable statutes?

Section 20.331 and Ch. 379, Florida Statutes

Whom do I contact for help?

George Warthen, Director, Hunting and Game Management, 850-488-3831, email: George.Warthen@myfwc.com
Website