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| Escambia River |
Escambia River WMA
-- Explore by: Location : Activity : Name -- What are WMAs? -- Publications -- Additional Resources --
Managed in cooperation with
Northwest Florida Water Management District
Northwest Florida Water Management District
Escambia River WMA consists of more than 34,000 acres bordering 25 miles of the Escambia River from CR 4 south to near Pensacola in
Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Much of the river is bordered by floodplain forest. Water levels fluctuate considerably throughout the year,
subject to rainfall amounts. Hunting is permitted in season. A boat is needed to access most of the area, but vehicle access is possible at
Cotton Landing, Little Williams, Bogia Road, Mystic Springs, Bluff Springs and Salters Lake in Escambia County. Vehicle access in Santa Rosa
County is available at Quintette Landing, Webb Landing, Keyser Landing, and Williams Lake. Primitive camping is permitted throughout the area
and one group campsite is available at Mystic Springs with a permit from the Northwest Florida Water Management District (850-539-
5999 850-539-5999 ). Fishing is the major recreational draw in this area. The Escambia River has the richest assemblage of
freshwater fish of any river in Florida, including numerous sportfish species — shadow bass, warmouth, bluegill, longear sunfish, redear sunfish,
spotted sunfish, spotted bass, largemouth bass, black crappie, chain pickerel, blue catfish, channel catfish, flathead catfish, and sunshine bass.
Numerous boat launches are available along the Escambia River.
http://myfwc.com/recreation/WMASites_EscambiaRiver_index.htm
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Escambia River
The cool, clear Escambia River is popular for fishing and swimming, and is largely protected under District ownership. Some 30 miles of forested
river corridor, covering about 35,000 acres of floodplain, is being preserved in its natural state for posterity. While providing access for nature
appreciation and recreation, the area, operated as the Escambia River Water Management Area (WMA), also secures a vegetated buffer that
filters runoff and preserves water quality in an endangered system, which flows to Pensacola Bay. The extensive preserve also offers a
continuous ecosystem of diverse habitats, rich in mature bottomland hardwood forest, pine uplands and estuarine marsh.
Bluff Springs is a recent addition, a rolling tract overlooking the river mouth and surrounded by District lands. The District is managing the tract
to restore and enhance bottomland hardwood habitat, as well as returning a pine plantation to old growth forest habitat. Access roads have
been improved, and boundaries are marked and posted.
The Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) mitigation program and Florida Forever funds paid for the 311.3-acre parcel. Florida Forever
funds also helped restore Big Escambia to its original channel, eliminating about 10,000 tons of sediment a year from washing into the Escambia
River and Bay.
The Escambia River WMA provides several boat ramps and primitive campsites, as well as the Mystic Springs Group Use Campsite, available on
weekends by reservation for groups of 25 or less. A group area permit application and a $20 fee are required. It includes primitive campsites,
picnic tables, fire rings, trails, charcoal grills, a toilet and a pavilion. A public boat ramp is located nearby.
Read the FWC 2010-11 Hunting Brochure
2010-
2011
Hunting Season
Escambia River
Wildlife Management Area
Regulations Summary and Area Map
July 1, 2010 - June 30, 2011
A cooperative public wildlife and recreational area
Northwest Florida Water Management District
Florida Fish and WildlifeConservation Commission
MyFWC.com
This brochure is designed to provide the public with information and a summary of regulations pertaining to hunting and other recreational use
on the Escambia River Wildlife Management Area. Regulations that are new or differ substantially from last year are shown in bold print. Area
users should familiarize themselves with all regulations. For exact wording of the wildlife laws and regulations, see the Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission’s wildlife code, on file with the Secretary of State and state libraries. This brochure and the Florida Hunting
Regulations handbook should provide the information necessary for you to plan your hunting activities. These publications are available from any
Commission office, county tax collector and at MyFWC.com.
Persons using wildlife management areas are required to have appropriate licenses, permits and stamps. The following persons are exempt from
all license and permit requirements (except for quota permits when listed as “no exemptions”, recreational use permits, antlerless deer permits
and the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp [federal duck stamp]): Florida residents who are 65 years of age or older; residents
who possess a Florida Resident Disabled Person Hunting and Fishing Certificate; residents in the U.S. Armed Forces, not stationed in Florida,
while home on leave for 30 days or less, upon submission of orders; and children under 16 years of age. Children under 16 years of age are
exempt from the duck stamp. Anyone born on or after June 1, 1975 and 16 years of age or older must have passed a Commission-approved
hunter-safety course prior to being issued a hunting license, except the Hunter Safety Mentoring exemption allows anyone to purchase a
hunting license and hunt under the supervision of a licensed hunter, 21 years of age or older, for one year.
Licenses and permits may be purchased from county tax collectors, license agents, at MyFWC.com/license or by telephone at 1-888-4868356. A
no-cost Migratory Bird Permit is available when purchasing a hunting license. Any waterfowl hunter 16 years of age or older must possess a
federal duck stamp; available where hunting licenses are sold, at most post offices or at duckstamp.com. Note: A $5 deer permit is required to
hunt deer.
QUOTA PERMIT INFORMATION: Quota permits are not required for this area.
GENERAL AREA REGULATIONS:
All general laws and regulations relating to wildlife and fish shall apply unless specifically exempted for this area. Hunting or the taking of
wildlife or fish on this area shall be allowed only during the open seasons and in accordance with the following regulations:
1.
Any person hunting deer or accompanying another person hunting deer shall wear at least 500 square inches of daylight fluorescent-orange
material as an outer garment, above the waistline. These provisions are not required when hunting with a bow and arrow during archery season.
2.
Taking of spotted fawn, swimming deer or roosted turkey is prohibited. Species legal to hunt are listed under each season.
3.
It is illegal to hunt over bait or place any bait or other food for wildlife on this area.
4.
Driving a metal object into any tree, or hunting from a tree into which a metal object has been driven, is prohibited.
5.
No person shall cut, damage or remove any natural, man-made or cultural resource without written authorization of the landowner or primary
land manager.
6.
Taking or attempting to take any game with the aid of live decoys, recorded game calls or sounds, set guns, artificial light, net, trap, snare, drug
or poison is prohibited. Recorded calls and sounds can be used to hunt furbearers and crows.
7.
The wanton and willful waste of wildlife is prohibited.
8.
Hunting, fishing or trapping is prohibited on any portion of the area posted as closed to those activities.
9.
People, dogs, vehicles and other recreational equipment are prohibited in areas posted as “Closed to Public Access” by FWC administrative action.
10.
Taking or herding wildlife from any motorized vehicle, aircraft or boat, which is under power is prohibited until power, and movement from that
power, has ceased.
11.
Most game may be hunted from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset (see exceptions for each season).
12.
The release of any animal is prohibited, without written authorization of the landowner or primary land manager.
13.
The head and evidence of sex may not be removed from the carcass of any deer or turkey on the area.
14.
The planting or introduction of any non-native plant is prohibited, without written authorization of the landowner or primary land manager.
15.
Wild hog may not be transported alive.
16.
Littering is prohibited.
17.
It is unlawful to set fire to any forest, grass or woodlands.
18.
A Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Law Enforcement Officer may search any camp, vehicle or boat, in accordance with law.
2010-
2011
Hunting Season
Escambia River
Wildlife Management Area
Regulations Summary and Area Map
July 1, 2010 - June 30, 2011
A cooperative public wildlife and recreational area
Northwest Florida Water Management District
Florida Fish and WildlifeConservation Commission
MyFWC.com
19. Falconers may hunt during the statewide falconry season anytime a management area is open for public access. Falconers are not exempt
from quota permits during hunts requiring them.
PUBLIC ACCESS AND VEHICLES:
1.
Open to public access year round.
2.
Vehicles may be operated only on named or numbered roads.
3.
The use of all-terrain vehicles is prohibited.
4.
Parked vehicles may not obstruct a road, gate or firelane.
5.
No motor vehicle shall be operated on any part of any wildlife management area that has been designated as closed to vehicular traffic.
HUNTERS AND CHECK STATIONS:
Hunting equipment and dogs may be taken onto the WMA after 8
a.m. the day before the opening of a season and shall be removed by 6
p.m. one day after the end of the season.
GUNS:
1.
All firearms shall be securely encased and in a vehicle, vessel, camper or tent, during periods when they are not a legal method of take. Persons
in possession of a valid Concealed Weapon or Firearm License may carry concealed handguns.
2.
Target practice is prohibited, except at the shooting range.
3.
Hunting on or from rights-of-way of Keyser Landing Road, Webb Landing Road, S.R. 184 or any other paved road within the area is prohibited.
4.
Hunting with a gun and light is prohibited (see exception for Fox, Raccoon, Opossum and Bobcat Season).
5.
Muzzleloading guns used for taking deer must be .40 caliber or larger, if firing a single bullet, or be 20 gauge or larger if firing two or more balls.
6.
Children under the age of 16 may not be in possession of a firearm unless in the presence of a supervising adult.
7.
No person shall have a gun under control while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
8.
For hunting non-migratory game, only shotguns, rifles, pistols, bows, crossbows (during the general gun, small game and spring turkey
seasons or by permit) or falconry may be used.
9.
For hunting migratory game, only shotguns, bows, crossbows or falconry may be used. Shotguns shall not be larger than 10 gauge and shall be
incapable of holding more than three shells in the magazine and chamber combined.
10.
Firearms using rimfire or non-expanding, full metal jacket (military ball) ammunition are prohibited for taking deer.
11.
Fully automatic or silencer-equipped firearms, centerfire semiautomatic rifles having a magazine capable of holding more than five rounds,
explosive or drug-injecting devices and setguns are prohibited.
DOGS:
1.
Hunting with dogs, other than bird dogs or retrievers, is prohibited on Parker and Morgan Islands (except when hunting raccoon) and in that
portion of the area north of State Road 184 in Santa Rosa County, and north of Cedartown Road and Daffin Road in Escambia County (see
map).
2.
No person shall allow any dog to pursue or molest any wildlife during any period in which the taking of wildlife by the use of dogs is prohibited.
3.
Dogs on leashes may be used for trailing wounded game.
4.
For purposes other than hunting, dogs are allowed, but must be kept under physical restraint at all times.
CAMPING: Camping is allowed throughout the area (except where posted as no camping), but for no more than 14 consecutive days at a time
and is limited to tents, trailers, or self-propelled camping vehicles only. Kitchen stoves, refrigerators and freezers are prohibited, unless
contained in mobile campers. Lumber, sheet metal or other building materials, are prohibited. For additional information, call the Northwest
Florida Water Management District at 850-539-5999.
BAG AND POSSESSION LIMITS:
1.
Deer - Daily limit 2, possession limit 4.
2.
Wild hog - No size or bag limit.
3.
Turkey - Daily limit 1, season limit 2, possession limit 2.
4.
Gray squirrel, quail and rabbit - Daily limit 12, possession limit 24 for each.
5.
Raccoon, opossum, armadillo, beaver, coyote, skunk and nutria - No bag limits.
6.
Bobcat and otter - Possession limit 1 unless in possession of a Trapping License.
7.
Migratory birds - See Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations pamphlet.
ARCHERY SEASON:
October 16 through November 14.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, archery permit, deer permit (if hunting deer), wild turkey
permit (if hunting wild turkey) and migratory bird permit (if hunting migratory birds).
Legal to Hunt - Any deer (except spotted fawn), wild hog, turkey of either sex, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, armadillo, beaver,
coyote, skunk, nutria and migratory birds in season.
Regulations Unique to Archery Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting with firearms or crossbows is prohibited, except that centerfire shotguns are allowed for hunting migratory birds when one or more
species are legal to hunt (see Migratory Bird section and the current Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations pamphlet).
2.
Hunting deer or wild hog with dogs is prohibited.
FOX, RACCOON, OPOSSUM AND BOBCAT SEASON:
November 1 through March 18 and April 25 through July 31.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license and management area permit.
Legal to Hunt - Raccoon (November 1 through March 1 only) and opossum. Bobcat from December 1 through March 1.
Regulations Unique to Fox, Raccoon, Opossum and Bobcat Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting with dogs is prohibited in the still hunt areas, except that raccoon may be taken at night with the aid of dogs on Parker and Morgan
Islands in accordance with provisions of the following paragraph.
2.
Raccoon may be taken at night by the aid of light and dogs, with .22 rimfire firearms other than .22 magnum, or with a single-shot .410 gauge
shotgun using shot no larger than No. 6 provided that no firearm shall be loaded at any time except immediately prior to shooting of a treed or
bayed raccoon. The hunting of raccoon under the provisions of this paragraph by display or use of light from a moving vehicle, boat or animal is
prohibited.
3.
Raccoon may be pursued with dogs during the entire season, but may be taken by the use of firearms only from November 1 through March
1.
4.
Killing fox is prohibited.
SMALL GAME SEASON:
November 13 through March 6.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, migratory bird permit (if hunting migratory birds), and
state waterfowl permit and federal duck stamp (if hunting waterfowl).
Legal to Hunt - Wild hog, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon (through March 1), opossum, armadillo, beaver, coyote, skunk, nutria and
migratory birds in season. Bobcat and otter from December 1 through March 1.
Regulations Unique to Small Game Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply. Hunting with centerfire
rifles is prohibited, except during general gun season.
MUZZLELOADING GUN SEASON:
November 19-21.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, muzzleloading gun permit, deer permit (if hunting deer),
migratory bird permit (if hunting migratory birds), and state waterfowl permit and federal duck stamp (if hunting waterfowl).
Legal to Hunt -Deer with at least one antler 5 inches or more in length, wild hog, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, armadillo,
beaver, coyote, skunk, nutria and migratory birds in season.
Regulations Unique to Muzzleloading Gun Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting with archery equipment or firearms, other than muzzleloading guns, is prohibited, except that centerfire shotguns are allowed for
hunting migratory birds when one or more species are legal to hunt (see Migratory Bird section and the current Migratory Bird Hunting
Regulations pamphlet) and small game may be harvested with any gun other than centerfire rifles.
2.
Hunting deer or wild hog with dogs is prohibited.
GENERAL GUN SEASON:
November 25-28 and December 11 through February 2.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, deer permit (if hunting deer), migratory bird permit (if
hunting migratory birds), and state waterfowl permit and federal duck stamp (if hunting waterfowl).
Legal to Hunt -Deer with at least one antler 5 inches or more in length, wild hog, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, armadillo,
beaver, coyote, skunk, nutria and migratory birds in season. Bobcat and otter beginning December 1.
Regulations Unique to General Gun Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
ARCHERY/MUZZLELOADING GUN SEASON:
February 17-27.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, archery permit (if hunting with archery equipment),
muzzleloading gun permit (if hunting with a muzzleloading gun), deer permit (if hunting deer) and migratory bird permit (if hunting migratory
birds).
Legal to Hunt -Deer with at least one antler 5 inches or more in length, wild hog, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, armadillo,
beaver, coyote, skunk, nutria, bobcat, otter and migratory birds in season.
Regulations Unique to Archery/Muzzleloading Gun Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting with crossbows or firearms (except muzzleloading guns) is prohibited, except that centerfire shotguns are allowed for hunting
migratory birds when one or more species are legal to hunt (see Migratory Bird section and the current Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations
pamphlet) and small game may be harvested with any gun other than centerfire rifles.
2.
Hunting deer or wild hog with dogs is prohibited.
TRAPPING: Prohibited.
SPRING TURKEY SEASON:
March 19 through April 24.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit and wild turkey permit.
Legal to Hunt -Bearded turkey or gobbler.
Regulations Unique to Spring Turkey Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Legal shooting hours are ½ hour before sunrise until 1 p.m.
2.
Hunting with dogs is prohibited.
3.
Hunting other animals is prohibited.
MIGRATORY BIRD SEASONS:
Rails, common moorhen, mourning dove, white-winged dove, snipe, duck, geese, coot, woodcock and crows may be hunted during seasons
established by the Commission for these species.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, migratory bird permit and state waterfowl permit and
federal duck stamp (if hunting waterfowl).
Legal to Hunt -See Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations pamphlet. Regulations Unique to Migratory Bird Seasons - In addition to these
regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting duck, geese and coot with lead shot is prohibited.
2.
Centerfire shotguns are allowed for hunting during established area seasons when one or more migratory birds are legal to take.
FISHING AND FROGGING:
Allowed year round.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Fishing license (not required
when frogging). Legal to Take - See Florida Freshwater Fishing Regulations Summary. Regulations Unique to Fishing and Frogging - All General
Area Regulations and General Freshwater Fishing Regulations shall apply.
1.
Fishing on or from the rights-of-way of Keyser Landing Road and Webb Landing Road is prohibited.
2.
Shooting frogs is allowed only during the listed open hunting seasons and only with the legal methods of take during each particular season.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
1.
Information for persons with disabilities can be found at MyFWC.com/ADA.
2.
If you have any questions about this material, please call the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 850-265-3676 (TDD 800-9558771).
NORTHWEST FLORIDA WMD RULES AND INFORMATION:
1.
This land was acquired by the Northwest Florida Water Management District (District) to protect public water resources. The purpose of the
District's land acquisition and management program is to conserve and protect unique and irreplaceable land and water resources, restore areas
to their original condition as much as possible and allow controlled multiple recreational and educational uses consistent with this purpose.
2.
The District's land management activities for this area may include prescribed burning and timber harvesting during most months of the year.
For personal safety reasons, area users should be aware of activities in the area and contact the District's Land Management office at 850-539-
5999 with any questions. The District has no responsibility or obligation to identify and/or protect personal property while undertaking its land
management activities.
COOPERATION REQUESTED:
If you see law violators or suspicious activities, contact your nearest Commission regional office or call 1-888-404-FWCC. You may qualify for a
cash reward from the Wildlife Alert Reward Association.
The U.S. Department of the Interior prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex or handicap. If you believe that
you have been discriminated against in any program, activity or facility as described above, or if you desire further information, please write to:
The Office for Human Resources, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240. The project described in
this publication is part of a program funded by federal dollars under the Wildlife Restoration Act. Federal funds pay 20 percent of the cost of the
program.
-------------------------
Escambia River
McDavid, Florida
United States
Current Weather
Spot Description:
Escambia River WMA consists of more than 34,000 acres bordering 25 miles of the Escambia River from CR 4 south to near Pensacola in
Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Much of the river is bordered by floodplain forest. Water levels fluctuate considerably throughout the year,
subject to rainfall amounts. Hunting is permitted in season. A boat is needed to access most of the area, but vehicle access is possible at
Cotton Landing, Little Williams, Bogia Road, Mystic Springs, Bluff Springs and Salters Lake in Escambia County. Vehicle access in Santa Rosa
County is available at Quintette Landing, Webb Landing, Keyser Landing, and Williams Lake. Primitive camping is permitted throughout the area
and one group campsite is available at Mystic Springs with a permit from the Northwest Florida Water Management District.Fishing is the major
recreational draw in this area. The Escambia River has the richest assemblage of freshwater fish of any river in Florida, including numerous
sportfish species — shadow bass, warmouth, bluegill, longear sunfish, redear sunfish, spotted sunfish, spotted bass, largemouth bass, black
crappie, chain pickerel, blue catfish, channel catfish, flathead catfish, and sunshine bass. Numerous boat launches are available along the
Escambia River.Public Boat Access: Many located along river including: Molino Boat Ramp: Located off Fairgrounds Road in Molino Mystic Springs
Ramp: Located off Mystic Springs Road, South of Century off US 29.
-- Explore by: Location : Activity : Name -- What are WMAs? -- Publications -- Additional Resources --
Managed in cooperation with
Northwest Florida Water Management District
Northwest Florida Water Management District
Escambia River WMA consists of more than 34,000 acres bordering 25 miles of the Escambia River from CR 4 south to near Pensacola in
Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Much of the river is bordered by floodplain forest. Water levels fluctuate considerably throughout the year,
subject to rainfall amounts. Hunting is permitted in season. A boat is needed to access most of the area, but vehicle access is possible at
Cotton Landing, Little Williams, Bogia Road, Mystic Springs, Bluff Springs and Salters Lake in Escambia County. Vehicle access in Santa Rosa
County is available at Quintette Landing, Webb Landing, Keyser Landing, and Williams Lake. Primitive camping is permitted throughout the area
and one group campsite is available at Mystic Springs with a permit from the Northwest Florida Water Management District (850-539-
5999 850-539-5999 ). Fishing is the major recreational draw in this area. The Escambia River has the richest assemblage of
freshwater fish of any river in Florida, including numerous sportfish species — shadow bass, warmouth, bluegill, longear sunfish, redear sunfish,
spotted sunfish, spotted bass, largemouth bass, black crappie, chain pickerel, blue catfish, channel catfish, flathead catfish, and sunshine bass.
Numerous boat launches are available along the Escambia River.
http://myfwc.com/recreation/WMASites_EscambiaRiver_index.htm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Escambia River
The cool, clear Escambia River is popular for fishing and swimming, and is largely protected under District ownership. Some 30 miles of forested
river corridor, covering about 35,000 acres of floodplain, is being preserved in its natural state for posterity. While providing access for nature
appreciation and recreation, the area, operated as the Escambia River Water Management Area (WMA), also secures a vegetated buffer that
filters runoff and preserves water quality in an endangered system, which flows to Pensacola Bay. The extensive preserve also offers a
continuous ecosystem of diverse habitats, rich in mature bottomland hardwood forest, pine uplands and estuarine marsh.
Bluff Springs is a recent addition, a rolling tract overlooking the river mouth and surrounded by District lands. The District is managing the tract
to restore and enhance bottomland hardwood habitat, as well as returning a pine plantation to old growth forest habitat. Access roads have
been improved, and boundaries are marked and posted.
The Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) mitigation program and Florida Forever funds paid for the 311.3-acre parcel. Florida Forever
funds also helped restore Big Escambia to its original channel, eliminating about 10,000 tons of sediment a year from washing into the Escambia
River and Bay.
The Escambia River WMA provides several boat ramps and primitive campsites, as well as the Mystic Springs Group Use Campsite, available on
weekends by reservation for groups of 25 or less. A group area permit application and a $20 fee are required. It includes primitive campsites,
picnic tables, fire rings, trails, charcoal grills, a toilet and a pavilion. A public boat ramp is located nearby.
Read the FWC 2010-11 Hunting Brochure
2010-
2011
Hunting Season
Escambia River
Wildlife Management Area
Regulations Summary and Area Map
July 1, 2010 - June 30, 2011
A cooperative public wildlife and recreational area
Northwest Florida Water Management District
Florida Fish and WildlifeConservation Commission
MyFWC.com
This brochure is designed to provide the public with information and a summary of regulations pertaining to hunting and other recreational use
on the Escambia River Wildlife Management Area. Regulations that are new or differ substantially from last year are shown in bold print. Area
users should familiarize themselves with all regulations. For exact wording of the wildlife laws and regulations, see the Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission’s wildlife code, on file with the Secretary of State and state libraries. This brochure and the Florida Hunting
Regulations handbook should provide the information necessary for you to plan your hunting activities. These publications are available from any
Commission office, county tax collector and at MyFWC.com.
Persons using wildlife management areas are required to have appropriate licenses, permits and stamps. The following persons are exempt from
all license and permit requirements (except for quota permits when listed as “no exemptions”, recreational use permits, antlerless deer permits
and the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp [federal duck stamp]): Florida residents who are 65 years of age or older; residents
who possess a Florida Resident Disabled Person Hunting and Fishing Certificate; residents in the U.S. Armed Forces, not stationed in Florida,
while home on leave for 30 days or less, upon submission of orders; and children under 16 years of age. Children under 16 years of age are
exempt from the duck stamp. Anyone born on or after June 1, 1975 and 16 years of age or older must have passed a Commission-approved
hunter-safety course prior to being issued a hunting license, except the Hunter Safety Mentoring exemption allows anyone to purchase a
hunting license and hunt under the supervision of a licensed hunter, 21 years of age or older, for one year.
Licenses and permits may be purchased from county tax collectors, license agents, at MyFWC.com/license or by telephone at 1-888-4868356. A
no-cost Migratory Bird Permit is available when purchasing a hunting license. Any waterfowl hunter 16 years of age or older must possess a
federal duck stamp; available where hunting licenses are sold, at most post offices or at duckstamp.com. Note: A $5 deer permit is required to
hunt deer.
QUOTA PERMIT INFORMATION: Quota permits are not required for this area.
GENERAL AREA REGULATIONS:
All general laws and regulations relating to wildlife and fish shall apply unless specifically exempted for this area. Hunting or the taking of
wildlife or fish on this area shall be allowed only during the open seasons and in accordance with the following regulations:
1.
Any person hunting deer or accompanying another person hunting deer shall wear at least 500 square inches of daylight fluorescent-orange
material as an outer garment, above the waistline. These provisions are not required when hunting with a bow and arrow during archery season.
2.
Taking of spotted fawn, swimming deer or roosted turkey is prohibited. Species legal to hunt are listed under each season.
3.
It is illegal to hunt over bait or place any bait or other food for wildlife on this area.
4.
Driving a metal object into any tree, or hunting from a tree into which a metal object has been driven, is prohibited.
5.
No person shall cut, damage or remove any natural, man-made or cultural resource without written authorization of the landowner or primary
land manager.
6.
Taking or attempting to take any game with the aid of live decoys, recorded game calls or sounds, set guns, artificial light, net, trap, snare, drug
or poison is prohibited. Recorded calls and sounds can be used to hunt furbearers and crows.
7.
The wanton and willful waste of wildlife is prohibited.
8.
Hunting, fishing or trapping is prohibited on any portion of the area posted as closed to those activities.
9.
People, dogs, vehicles and other recreational equipment are prohibited in areas posted as “Closed to Public Access” by FWC administrative action.
10.
Taking or herding wildlife from any motorized vehicle, aircraft or boat, which is under power is prohibited until power, and movement from that
power, has ceased.
11.
Most game may be hunted from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset (see exceptions for each season).
12.
The release of any animal is prohibited, without written authorization of the landowner or primary land manager.
13.
The head and evidence of sex may not be removed from the carcass of any deer or turkey on the area.
14.
The planting or introduction of any non-native plant is prohibited, without written authorization of the landowner or primary land manager.
15.
Wild hog may not be transported alive.
16.
Littering is prohibited.
17.
It is unlawful to set fire to any forest, grass or woodlands.
18.
A Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Law Enforcement Officer may search any camp, vehicle or boat, in accordance with law.
2010-
2011
Hunting Season
Escambia River
Wildlife Management Area
Regulations Summary and Area Map
July 1, 2010 - June 30, 2011
A cooperative public wildlife and recreational area
Northwest Florida Water Management District
Florida Fish and WildlifeConservation Commission
MyFWC.com
19. Falconers may hunt during the statewide falconry season anytime a management area is open for public access. Falconers are not exempt
from quota permits during hunts requiring them.
PUBLIC ACCESS AND VEHICLES:
1.
Open to public access year round.
2.
Vehicles may be operated only on named or numbered roads.
3.
The use of all-terrain vehicles is prohibited.
4.
Parked vehicles may not obstruct a road, gate or firelane.
5.
No motor vehicle shall be operated on any part of any wildlife management area that has been designated as closed to vehicular traffic.
HUNTERS AND CHECK STATIONS:
Hunting equipment and dogs may be taken onto the WMA after 8
a.m. the day before the opening of a season and shall be removed by 6
p.m. one day after the end of the season.
GUNS:
1.
All firearms shall be securely encased and in a vehicle, vessel, camper or tent, during periods when they are not a legal method of take. Persons
in possession of a valid Concealed Weapon or Firearm License may carry concealed handguns.
2.
Target practice is prohibited, except at the shooting range.
3.
Hunting on or from rights-of-way of Keyser Landing Road, Webb Landing Road, S.R. 184 or any other paved road within the area is prohibited.
4.
Hunting with a gun and light is prohibited (see exception for Fox, Raccoon, Opossum and Bobcat Season).
5.
Muzzleloading guns used for taking deer must be .40 caliber or larger, if firing a single bullet, or be 20 gauge or larger if firing two or more balls.
6.
Children under the age of 16 may not be in possession of a firearm unless in the presence of a supervising adult.
7.
No person shall have a gun under control while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
8.
For hunting non-migratory game, only shotguns, rifles, pistols, bows, crossbows (during the general gun, small game and spring turkey
seasons or by permit) or falconry may be used.
9.
For hunting migratory game, only shotguns, bows, crossbows or falconry may be used. Shotguns shall not be larger than 10 gauge and shall be
incapable of holding more than three shells in the magazine and chamber combined.
10.
Firearms using rimfire or non-expanding, full metal jacket (military ball) ammunition are prohibited for taking deer.
11.
Fully automatic or silencer-equipped firearms, centerfire semiautomatic rifles having a magazine capable of holding more than five rounds,
explosive or drug-injecting devices and setguns are prohibited.
DOGS:
1.
Hunting with dogs, other than bird dogs or retrievers, is prohibited on Parker and Morgan Islands (except when hunting raccoon) and in that
portion of the area north of State Road 184 in Santa Rosa County, and north of Cedartown Road and Daffin Road in Escambia County (see
map).
2.
No person shall allow any dog to pursue or molest any wildlife during any period in which the taking of wildlife by the use of dogs is prohibited.
3.
Dogs on leashes may be used for trailing wounded game.
4.
For purposes other than hunting, dogs are allowed, but must be kept under physical restraint at all times.
CAMPING: Camping is allowed throughout the area (except where posted as no camping), but for no more than 14 consecutive days at a time
and is limited to tents, trailers, or self-propelled camping vehicles only. Kitchen stoves, refrigerators and freezers are prohibited, unless
contained in mobile campers. Lumber, sheet metal or other building materials, are prohibited. For additional information, call the Northwest
Florida Water Management District at 850-539-5999.
BAG AND POSSESSION LIMITS:
1.
Deer - Daily limit 2, possession limit 4.
2.
Wild hog - No size or bag limit.
3.
Turkey - Daily limit 1, season limit 2, possession limit 2.
4.
Gray squirrel, quail and rabbit - Daily limit 12, possession limit 24 for each.
5.
Raccoon, opossum, armadillo, beaver, coyote, skunk and nutria - No bag limits.
6.
Bobcat and otter - Possession limit 1 unless in possession of a Trapping License.
7.
Migratory birds - See Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations pamphlet.
ARCHERY SEASON:
October 16 through November 14.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, archery permit, deer permit (if hunting deer), wild turkey
permit (if hunting wild turkey) and migratory bird permit (if hunting migratory birds).
Legal to Hunt - Any deer (except spotted fawn), wild hog, turkey of either sex, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, armadillo, beaver,
coyote, skunk, nutria and migratory birds in season.
Regulations Unique to Archery Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting with firearms or crossbows is prohibited, except that centerfire shotguns are allowed for hunting migratory birds when one or more
species are legal to hunt (see Migratory Bird section and the current Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations pamphlet).
2.
Hunting deer or wild hog with dogs is prohibited.
FOX, RACCOON, OPOSSUM AND BOBCAT SEASON:
November 1 through March 18 and April 25 through July 31.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license and management area permit.
Legal to Hunt - Raccoon (November 1 through March 1 only) and opossum. Bobcat from December 1 through March 1.
Regulations Unique to Fox, Raccoon, Opossum and Bobcat Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting with dogs is prohibited in the still hunt areas, except that raccoon may be taken at night with the aid of dogs on Parker and Morgan
Islands in accordance with provisions of the following paragraph.
2.
Raccoon may be taken at night by the aid of light and dogs, with .22 rimfire firearms other than .22 magnum, or with a single-shot .410 gauge
shotgun using shot no larger than No. 6 provided that no firearm shall be loaded at any time except immediately prior to shooting of a treed or
bayed raccoon. The hunting of raccoon under the provisions of this paragraph by display or use of light from a moving vehicle, boat or animal is
prohibited.
3.
Raccoon may be pursued with dogs during the entire season, but may be taken by the use of firearms only from November 1 through March
1.
4.
Killing fox is prohibited.
SMALL GAME SEASON:
November 13 through March 6.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, migratory bird permit (if hunting migratory birds), and
state waterfowl permit and federal duck stamp (if hunting waterfowl).
Legal to Hunt - Wild hog, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon (through March 1), opossum, armadillo, beaver, coyote, skunk, nutria and
migratory birds in season. Bobcat and otter from December 1 through March 1.
Regulations Unique to Small Game Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply. Hunting with centerfire
rifles is prohibited, except during general gun season.
MUZZLELOADING GUN SEASON:
November 19-21.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, muzzleloading gun permit, deer permit (if hunting deer),
migratory bird permit (if hunting migratory birds), and state waterfowl permit and federal duck stamp (if hunting waterfowl).
Legal to Hunt -Deer with at least one antler 5 inches or more in length, wild hog, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, armadillo,
beaver, coyote, skunk, nutria and migratory birds in season.
Regulations Unique to Muzzleloading Gun Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting with archery equipment or firearms, other than muzzleloading guns, is prohibited, except that centerfire shotguns are allowed for
hunting migratory birds when one or more species are legal to hunt (see Migratory Bird section and the current Migratory Bird Hunting
Regulations pamphlet) and small game may be harvested with any gun other than centerfire rifles.
2.
Hunting deer or wild hog with dogs is prohibited.
GENERAL GUN SEASON:
November 25-28 and December 11 through February 2.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, deer permit (if hunting deer), migratory bird permit (if
hunting migratory birds), and state waterfowl permit and federal duck stamp (if hunting waterfowl).
Legal to Hunt -Deer with at least one antler 5 inches or more in length, wild hog, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, armadillo,
beaver, coyote, skunk, nutria and migratory birds in season. Bobcat and otter beginning December 1.
Regulations Unique to General Gun Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
ARCHERY/MUZZLELOADING GUN SEASON:
February 17-27.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, archery permit (if hunting with archery equipment),
muzzleloading gun permit (if hunting with a muzzleloading gun), deer permit (if hunting deer) and migratory bird permit (if hunting migratory
birds).
Legal to Hunt -Deer with at least one antler 5 inches or more in length, wild hog, gray squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, armadillo,
beaver, coyote, skunk, nutria, bobcat, otter and migratory birds in season.
Regulations Unique to Archery/Muzzleloading Gun Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting with crossbows or firearms (except muzzleloading guns) is prohibited, except that centerfire shotguns are allowed for hunting
migratory birds when one or more species are legal to hunt (see Migratory Bird section and the current Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations
pamphlet) and small game may be harvested with any gun other than centerfire rifles.
2.
Hunting deer or wild hog with dogs is prohibited.
TRAPPING: Prohibited.
SPRING TURKEY SEASON:
March 19 through April 24.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit and wild turkey permit.
Legal to Hunt -Bearded turkey or gobbler.
Regulations Unique to Spring Turkey Season - In addition to these regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Legal shooting hours are ½ hour before sunrise until 1 p.m.
2.
Hunting with dogs is prohibited.
3.
Hunting other animals is prohibited.
MIGRATORY BIRD SEASONS:
Rails, common moorhen, mourning dove, white-winged dove, snipe, duck, geese, coot, woodcock and crows may be hunted during seasons
established by the Commission for these species.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Hunting license, management area permit, migratory bird permit and state waterfowl permit and
federal duck stamp (if hunting waterfowl).
Legal to Hunt -See Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations pamphlet. Regulations Unique to Migratory Bird Seasons - In addition to these
regulations, all General Area Regulations shall apply.
1.
Hunting duck, geese and coot with lead shot is prohibited.
2.
Centerfire shotguns are allowed for hunting during established area seasons when one or more migratory birds are legal to take.
FISHING AND FROGGING:
Allowed year round.
Permit, Stamp and License Requirements - Fishing license (not required
when frogging). Legal to Take - See Florida Freshwater Fishing Regulations Summary. Regulations Unique to Fishing and Frogging - All General
Area Regulations and General Freshwater Fishing Regulations shall apply.
1.
Fishing on or from the rights-of-way of Keyser Landing Road and Webb Landing Road is prohibited.
2.
Shooting frogs is allowed only during the listed open hunting seasons and only with the legal methods of take during each particular season.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
1.
Information for persons with disabilities can be found at MyFWC.com/ADA.
2.
If you have any questions about this material, please call the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 850-265-3676 (TDD 800-9558771).
NORTHWEST FLORIDA WMD RULES AND INFORMATION:
1.
This land was acquired by the Northwest Florida Water Management District (District) to protect public water resources. The purpose of the
District's land acquisition and management program is to conserve and protect unique and irreplaceable land and water resources, restore areas
to their original condition as much as possible and allow controlled multiple recreational and educational uses consistent with this purpose.
2.
The District's land management activities for this area may include prescribed burning and timber harvesting during most months of the year.
For personal safety reasons, area users should be aware of activities in the area and contact the District's Land Management office at 850-539-
5999 with any questions. The District has no responsibility or obligation to identify and/or protect personal property while undertaking its land
management activities.
COOPERATION REQUESTED:
If you see law violators or suspicious activities, contact your nearest Commission regional office or call 1-888-404-FWCC. You may qualify for a
cash reward from the Wildlife Alert Reward Association.
The U.S. Department of the Interior prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex or handicap. If you believe that
you have been discriminated against in any program, activity or facility as described above, or if you desire further information, please write to:
The Office for Human Resources, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240. The project described in
this publication is part of a program funded by federal dollars under the Wildlife Restoration Act. Federal funds pay 20 percent of the cost of the
program.
-------------------------
Escambia River
McDavid, Florida
United States
Current Weather
Spot Description:
Escambia River WMA consists of more than 34,000 acres bordering 25 miles of the Escambia River from CR 4 south to near Pensacola in
Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Much of the river is bordered by floodplain forest. Water levels fluctuate considerably throughout the year,
subject to rainfall amounts. Hunting is permitted in season. A boat is needed to access most of the area, but vehicle access is possible at
Cotton Landing, Little Williams, Bogia Road, Mystic Springs, Bluff Springs and Salters Lake in Escambia County. Vehicle access in Santa Rosa
County is available at Quintette Landing, Webb Landing, Keyser Landing, and Williams Lake. Primitive camping is permitted throughout the area
and one group campsite is available at Mystic Springs with a permit from the Northwest Florida Water Management District.Fishing is the major
recreational draw in this area. The Escambia River has the richest assemblage of freshwater fish of any river in Florida, including numerous
sportfish species — shadow bass, warmouth, bluegill, longear sunfish, redear sunfish, spotted sunfish, spotted bass, largemouth bass, black
crappie, chain pickerel, blue catfish, channel catfish, flathead catfish, and sunshine bass. Numerous boat launches are available along the
Escambia River.Public Boat Access: Many located along river including: Molino Boat Ramp: Located off Fairgrounds Road in Molino Mystic Springs
Ramp: Located off Mystic Springs Road, South of Century off US 29.
View ALAQUA CREEK in a larger map
under construction