The phase I application period for the alligator harvest random drawing begins May 18 at 10 a.m. and runs through May 28. More than 6,000 harvest permits will be available. If you’re 18 years old by Aug. 15, 2018, and have a valid credit or debit card, you can apply for an alligator harvest permit that allows the harvest of two alligators on a designated harvest unit or county. Be sure the credit or debit card you use to apply has sufficient funds. Applications that can’t be pre-authorized due to insufficient funds will not be successful in the lottery.

In response to feedback received from alligator hunter opinion surveys, we’ve made a slight change to the application process to spread opportunities for being drawn to more applicants. The number of hunt choices that can be applied for was reduced from 20 to 12, which is expected to increase the number of desirable permits available during the second application period. It also should reduce the number of applicants who are awarded permits for areas they didn’t want – but listed as part of their 20 choices. Learn more about how the random drawing works and check out these tips to apply for alligator harvest permits.

The updated Guide to Alligator Hunting in Florida is another great source of information about the application process and hunt structure, rules and regulations, methods of take, and tips on how to safely and responsibly hunt alligators. It also provides information about how to process, store and cook the meat, and preserve the hide.

Also new this year are maps for all county alligator management units showing what waters are available to hunt.

Since 1988, Florida's statewide alligator harvest program has been nationally and internationally recognized as a model for the sustainable use of a renewable natural resource. Each year, alligator management units are established with appropriate harvest quotas to provide recreational opportunities for hunters from Florida and beyond.

Numerous spring and summer wild hog hunting opportunities are available at 18 wildlife management areas from April to September (mostly on weekends). Most of the areas for the spring/summer hunts don’t require a quota permit, but you will need a $26.50 management area permit.

 You also can hunt wild hogs on wildlife management areas during most hunting seasons (except spring turkey). On private lands, wild hogs may be hunted year-round with no hunting license required.

 Also, because wild hogs can carry parasites and diseases, we encourage you to take precautions when dressing and handling harvested wild hogs.

1.  Kids learn about conservation and develop skills such as shooting a bow and arrow, building a campfire, fishing, paddling and using a map and compass.
   
2. They spend the day outdoors getting fresh air and being active.
3. It’s a great place to make new friends.
4. Outdoor Adventure Summer Camps are safe, affordable and fun!

Our camps are available for kids who have completed third grade and up and are located throughout the state. Spots are limited and filling fast, so register your kids today for the experience of a lifetime!  

Help us learn more about wood ducks, mottled ducks and whistling ducks by suggesting new places to band ducks this summer. We’re looking for wetlands that hold ducks during spring and summer, have lots of vegetation and are fairly free of stumps and trees. Trapping may be done anywhere on public or private lakes or rivers, even in backyards of lakeshore properties. Many people have wood duck boxes in their yards, and ducks tend to congregate in these areas.

Banding takes place July through September and is done to assess harvest, lifespan and movement patterns. If you know of an area that fits the description, please forward the location and details to ducks@MyFWC.com or call 850-488-5878.

While there are spring/summer hog hunting opportunities, hunting often takes a back seat this time of year to target shooting, fishing, and even yard work. However, there are still lots of ways you can stay engaged in hunting and conservation:

1. Start the process now to take someone hunting later this year. Help new hunters get started. Take them shopping for needed gear and clothes. Enroll in a hunter safety course with them. Teach them about wildlife conservation. Practice important hunting skills.
2. Clean and repair your hunting equipment before storing it. And replace items in short supply.
3. Practice your marksmanship skills. Find a FWC-managed range.
4. Start the process for planting a food plot by getting your soil tested and prepping the seedbed.
5. Join a conservation organization. Get involved and meet new people who share your interests.
6. Introduce others to safe, responsible hunting by volunteering for the hunter safety program or the Youth Hunting Program of Florida.