The following refuge units have been opened for hunting and/or fishing, and are listed in alphabetical order with applicable refuge-specific regulations.
Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State and Federal regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. You must possess and carry a signed refuge waterfowl hunt permit (signed brochure) while hunting. These brochures are available at the refuge visitor center and on the refuge's Web site (http://www.fws.gov/loxahatchee).
2. We allow hunting in the interior of the refuge south of latitude line 26.27.130 and north of mile markers 12 and 14 (SEE PERMIT MAP). We prohibit hunting from canals or levees and those areas posted as closed.
3. Consult the refuge manager for current waterfowl season dates and times.
4. We do not open to hunting on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Christmas Day.
5. We allow hunting on the refuge from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to 1 p.m. Hunters may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. and must be off the refuge by 3 p.m.
6. Hunters may only enter and leave the refuge at the Headquarters Area (Boynton Beach) and the Hillsboro Area (Boca Raton).
7. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of Federal, State, and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in this part 32).
8. We allow only temporary blinds of native vegetation. We prohibit the taking, removing, or destroying of refuge vegetation (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
9. Hunters must remove decoys and other personal property (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) from the hunting area each day.
10. We encourage the use of dogs to retrieve dead or wounded waterfowl. Dogs must remain under the immediate control of the owner at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). We prohibit pets at all other times.
11. Hunters must complete a Migratory Bird Hunt Report (FWS Form 3-2361) and place it in an entrance fee canister each day prior to exiting the refuge.
12. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a licensed and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain with the adult while hunting. Youth hunters must have completed a hunter education course.
13. We allow only boats equipped with factory-manufactured-water-cooled outboard motors, electric motors, and nonmotorized boats. We prohibit boats with air-cooled engines, airboats, fan boats, hovercraft, and personal watercraft (Jet Skis, Jet Boats, Wave Runners, etc.).
14. There is a 35 mph speed limit in all waters of the refuge. A 500-foot (150-meter) Idle Speed Zone is at each of the refuge's three boat ramps.
15. We require all boats operating outside of the main perimeter canals (the L-40 Canal, L-39 Canal, L-7 Canal, and L-101 Canal) in interior areas of the refuge and within the hunt area, to fly a 12-inch by 12-inch (30-cm x 30-cm) orange flag 10 feet (3 m) above the vessel's waterline.
16. We prohibit motorized vehicles of any type on the levees and undesignated routes (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
17. For emergencies or to report violations, contact law enforcement personnel at 1-800-307-5789. Law enforcement officers may be monitoring VHF Channel 16.
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of alligators on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with Federal and State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must possess and carry a signed refuge alligator hunt permit (signed brochure) while hunting. These brochures are available at the refuge visitor center and on the refuge's Web site (http://www.fws.gov/loxahatchee/).
2. We allow hunting in the interior of the refuge south of latitude line 26.27.130 and north of mile markers 12 and 14, including the canals south of that line (SEE PERMIT MAP). We prohibit hunting from levees and those areas posted as closed.
3. Consult the refuge manager for current alligator hunt season dates and times.
4. We prohibit the taking of any other plants or wildlife (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
5. We allow hunting on the refuge 1 hour before sunset on Friday night through 1 hour after sunrise Saturday morning, and 1 hour before sunset on Saturday night through 1 hour after sunrise Sunday morning. Alligator hunting will be permitted the first 2 weekends during Harvest Period 1 (August) and the first 2 weekends during Harvest Period 2 (September). Following the close of Harvest Period 2, the remaining weekends in October will be open for alligator harvest permittees who possess unused CITES tags. Specific dates for the alligator hunt will be provided on the harvest permit.
6. Hunters 18 years and older must be in possession of all necessary State and Federal licenses, permits, and CITES tags, as well as a refuge hunt permit (signed hunt brochure) while hunting on the refuge. They must possess an Alligator Trapping License with CITES tags or an Alligator Trapping Agent License, if applicable.
7. Hunters under the age of 18 may not hunt, but may only accompany an adult of at least 21 years of age who possesses an Alligator Trapping Agent License.
8. Hunters may only enter and leave the refuge at the Hillsboro Area (Loxahatchee Road, Boca Raton).
9. You may take alligators using hand-held snares, harpoons, gigs, snatch hooks, artificial lures, manually operated spears, spear guns, and crossbows. We prohibit the taking of alligators using baited hooks, baited wooden pegs, or firearms. We allow the use of bang sticks (a hand-held pole with a pistol or shotgun cartridge on the end in a very short barrel) with nontoxic ammunition only for taking alligators attached to a restraining line (see Sec. 32.2(k)). Once an alligator is captured, it must be killed immediately. We prohibit catch and release of alligators. Once the alligator is dead, you must lock a CITES tag through the skin of the carcass within 6 inches (15.2 centimeters) of the tip of the tail. The tag must remain attached to the alligator at all times.
10. Hunters must complete a Big Game Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-2359) and place it in an entrance fee canister each day prior to exiting the refuge. A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Alligator Harvest Report Form (FWC Form 1001AT, supplied with your FWC permit) must be completed by the permit holder within 24 hours of taking each alligator and prior to the transfer to a permitted alligator processing facility. A copy of the FWC Alligator Harvest Report Form must accompany the alligator carcass until processing. An online version of the form can be found at MyFWC.com/alligator.
11. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of Federal, State, and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in this part 32).
12. Hunters must remove all personal property (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) from the hunting area each day.
13. We allow only one vessel per hunting group or party.
14. Conditions A14 through A18 apply.
15. For emergencies or to report violations, contact law enforcement personnel at 1-800-307-5789. Law enforcement officers may be monitoring VHF Channel 16.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with Federal and State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We only allow fishing from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
2. Special black bass regulations are in effect within the boundaries of the refuge. The daily creel limit is five black bass per person, per day, where only one bass may be over 14 inches (35 cm) in length.
3. We allow fishing south of a line of latitude of 26.27.130 and in the rim canal in the rest of the refuge. We prohibit fishing in those areas posted as closed to fishing or to the public.
4. We only allow the use of rods and reels and poles and lines, and anglers must attend them at all times.
5. We prohibit commercial fishing and the taking of frogs, turtles, and other wildlife (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
6. We allow commercial guiding by Special Use Permit only (Commercial Activities--Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-C). Contact the Refuge Office at 561-735-6029 for more information.
7. We allow 12 fishing tournaments a year by Special Use Permit only (General Activities--Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-G). Contact the Refuge Office at 561-735-6029 for more information.
8. We prohibit the possession or use of cast nets, seines, trot lines, jugs, gigs, and other fishing devices.
9. Anglers may only launch boats at the Headquarters Area (Boynton Beach), the Hillsboro Area (Boca Raton), and 20 Mile Bend (West Palm Beach).
10. Conditions A4, A8, A14 through A17, and A19 apply.
11. For emergencies or to report violations, contact law enforcement personnel at 1-800-307-5789. Law enforcement officers may be monitoring VHF Channel 16.
Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. We allow salt water sport fishing year-round in accordance with State regulations subject to the following condition: We will close a 300 foot (90 m) buffer zone beginning at mean high tide line and extending into the waters around Seahorse Key to all public entry from March 1 through June 30.
Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow migratory game bird hunting in those areas designated as open to hunting in accordance with applicable Federal and State laws, and subject to the following conditions:
1. In Citrus County:
i. You may take only ducks and coots.
ii. We allow waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays during those seasons established by the State of Florida; however, we may close or alter hunts in cases of emergency situations.
iii. State bag limits apply.
iv. We allow the use of dogs in accordance with State regulations to retrieve taken waterfowl.
v. We allow airboats only on the designated airboat route with a refuge Special Use Permit (General Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-G) issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We prohibit the use of airboats on vegetation. Airboats must be in compliance with State and county regulations (Sec. 27.32 of this chapter).
vi. We require hunters to possess and carry a signed, no-cost refuge hunting permit (signed brochure).
vii. In addition to State hunter education requirements, an adult (parent or guardian) age 21 or older must supervise and remain within sight and normal voice contact of any youth hunter age 15 or younger. An adult may supervise no more than two (2) youths.
viii. We prohibit hunting within 100 yards (91.4 meters) of any residence or on navigable waterways of Chassahowitzka River, Seven Cabbage Cut-off, and Mason Creek.
ix. We allow temporary blinds and decoys, but require all blinds and decoys to be removed from the refuge daily.
x. We prohibit the use of bait, salt, oil, or ingestible attractant. We prohibit taking or attempting to take any game animal with the aid of live decoys, recorded game calls or sounds, set guns, artificial light, net, trap, snare, drug, or poison (see Sec. Sec. 20.21 of this chapter and Sec. 32.2(h)).
xi. We prohibit taking or herding of wildlife from any vessel that is under power, until power and movement have ceased (Sec. 20.21(e) of this chapter).
xii. We prohibit target practice.
xiii. You may use only steel or approved nontoxic shot for hunting migratory game birds (see Sec. 32.2(k)). We prohibit possession of lead or other toxic shot (Sec. 20.21(j) of this chapter).
xiv. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on the refuge must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32).
xv. We prohibit the marking of trees, using flagging tape, reflective tacks, and other similar marking devices; and the cutting/trimming of trees. We prohibit driving or screwing any metal object into a tree or hunting from a tree in which a metal object has been driven or screwed to support a hunter (see 32.2(i)).
xvi. We prohibit commercial activities, including guiding or participating in a guided hunts (Sec. 27.97 of this chapter).
xvii. We prohibit fires.
xviii. We prohibit the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)/tracked motorized vehicles.
2. In Hernando County:
i. All hunters in Hernando County must comply with the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area regulations, including quota hunt requirements, in addition to refuge rules.
ii. Conditions A.1.iii, A.1.iv, A.1.vi, A.1.vii, and A.1.ix through A.1.xviii apply.
iii. We allow hunting of rails, common moorhen, mourning dove, white winged dove, snipe, and woodcock during seasons established by the Commission for these species and listed in the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area regulations. We allow hunting of geese, duck, and coot on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays; however, hunts may be closed or altered in cases of emergency situations by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
iv. You may use airboats on all navigable waterways within Hernando County with a refuge Special Use Permit (General Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-G) issued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We prohibit the use of airboats on vegetation. Airboats must be in compliance with State and county regulations.
v. We prohibit hunting within 100 yards (91.4 meters) of any residence.
B. Upland Game Hunting.
1. [Reserved]
2. In Hernando County, we allow hunting of quail, squirrel, and rabbit in accordance with Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area regulations, and subject to the following conditions:
i. Conditions A.1.iii, A.1.v through A.1.xii, and A.1.xiv through A.1.xviii, A.2.i, A.2.iv, and A.2.v apply.
ii. We prohibit the use of traps or snares to take game.
iii. You must report harvested game at the State Wildlife Management Area Check Station.
iv. We prohibit hunting of raccoon, bobcat, and otter.
v. You may take feral hog, opossum, armadillo, beaver, coyote, skunk, and nutria as incidental species with the equipment legal for use during the season.
C. Big Game Hunting.
1. [Reserved]
2. In Hernando County, we allow hunting of whitetail deer and turkey, in accordance with Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area regulations, and subject to the following conditions:
i. Conditions B.2.i through B.2.iii and B.2.v apply.
ii. We prohibit the use of dogs to take big game and feral hogs.
D. Sport Fishing.
1. In Citrus County, we allow sport fishing on the refuge year-round in areas designated as open in the refuge hunting and fishing brochure, in compliance with State fishing regulations and license requirements, and subject to the following conditions:
i. Conditions A.1.v, A.1.xiv, A.1.xv, A.1.xvii, and A.1 xviii apply.
ii. We allow fishing 24 hours per day, year-round, except in areas posted closed.
iii. All fish must remain in a whole condition while being transported from the refuge.
iv. We prohibit harvesting and possession of horseshoe crabs, turtles, and snakes.
v. We prohibit the taking of frogs.
vi. We permit commercial activities, including guiding, with a Special Use Permit (Commercial Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-C). You must apply for the permit.
2. In Hernando County, we allow sport fishing on the refuge year-round in areas designated as open in the refuge hunting and fishing brochure, in compliance with State fishing regulations and license requirements, and subject to the following conditions: Conditions D.1.i through D.1.vi apply.
Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on the refuge year-round in areas designated as open and in accordance with State fishing regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow fishing from designated refuge beaches during open hours.
2. Anglers may only use two poles per angler and must attend both poles at all times.
Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We only allow fishing from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
2. We allow salt-water fishing along the Atlantic Ocean and Indian River Lagoon year-round in accordance with State recreational fishing regulations.
3. We prohibit the disturbance or taking of sea turtles, their eggs, and their nests. We prohibit the taking of any wildlife, plants, and cultural artifacts (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
4. We prohibit camping, fires, pets, and the use of metal detectors.
5. We allow the use of only rods and reels and poles and lines, and anglers must attend them at all times.
6. We allow only two poles per angler, and anglers must attend those poles at all times in conjunction with the Martin County, Florida, two-pole ordinance.
7. We prohibit motorized vehicles of any type on the beach, fire roads, undesignated routes, and areas posted as closed (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
8. For emergencies or to report violations, contact law enforcement personnel at 1-800-307-5789. Law enforcement officers may be monitoring VHF Channel 16.
J. N. ``Ding'' Darling National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing and crabbing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit fishing and crabbing in all waters of the Bailey Tract except for Smith Pond and Airplane Canal.
2. We allow fishing and crabbing in all other refuge waters except in areas designated as ``closed to public entry''.
3. We prohibit the taking of horseshoe crabs, stone crabs, or spider crabs.
4. We allow the take of blue crabs with the use of dip nets only.
5. The daily limit of blue crabs is 20 per person (including no more than 10 non-eggbearing females).
6. We prohibit kite surfing, kite boarding, wind surfing, sail boarding, and any similar type of activities.
7. We allow vessels propelled only by polling, paddling, or floating in the posted ``no-motor zone'' of the J.N. ``Ding'' Darling Wilderness Area. All motors, including electric motors, must be in a nonuse position (out of the water) when in the ``no-motor zone.''
8. We allow vessels propelled only by polling, paddling, floating, or electric motors in the posted ``pole/troll zone'' of the Wulfert Flats Management Area. All non-electric motors must be in a non-use position (out of the water) when in the ``pole/troll zone.''
9. We prohibit camping on all refuge lands and overnight mooring of vessels on all refuge waters.
10. We allow you to launch canoes and kayaks anywhere on the right (north) side of Wildlife Drive. We prohibit launching motorized vessels over 14 feet (4.2 meters) in length from Wildlife Drive. We allow launching of motorized vessels only 14 feet (4.2 meters) or less in length from designated site 2.
11. We allow public access to Wildlife Drive and Indigo Trail, except on Fridays, when we close Wildlife Drive to all public access. See hours posted at the front gate or on the refuge Web site (http://www.fws.gov/dingdarling/), or call 239-472-1100.
12. All visitors (e.g., anglers and photographers) must exit refuge lands and waters no later than \1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
13. We prohibit all public entry into the impoundments on the left (south) side of Wildlife Drive.
14. We prohibit commercial fishing and crabbing (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
15. We prohibit the possession or use of seines or trot lines.
16. We prohibit the use of cast nets from the left (south) side of Wildlife Drive or any structure affixed to Wildlife Drive.
17. All fish must remain in whole condition.
18. We prohibit the use of bows and spears from Wildlife Drive or any trail or structure affixed to Wildlife Drive.
19. We prohibit airboats, Hovercraft, and personal watercraft (Go Devils, Jet Skis, jet boats, and Wave Runners).
20. Vessels must not exceed slow speed/minimum wake in refuge waters.
21. We close to public entry all refuge islands (including rookery islands) except for designated trails.
Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following condition: We require refuge permits.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We only allow fishing from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
2. We prohibit the use of airboats on the refuge.
3. We prohibit commercial fishing or the taking of frogs or turtles (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
4. We prohibit the use of snatch hooks in the refuge impoundments.
5. When boating, you must slow down and observe all manatee speed zones and caution areas.
Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require all hunters, ages 16 or older, to purchase and possess a general refuge hunting permit (name/address/phone number) and a State of Florida Hunting License to hunt during all refuge hunts, unless otherwise exempt. You can purchase a hunting permit (name/address.phone number) through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission licensing Web site, county tax office, or another outlet that sells State licenses. We do not require youth hunters age 15 and younger to possess a general refuge hunt permit (name/address/phone number). We do not require State Wildlife Management Area stamps. Unless otherwise exempt, we require hunters to have appropriate archery, muzzleloader, deer, and turkey stamps/permits. Unless exempt, we require waterfowl hunters to have appropriate State and Federal waterfowl stamps.
2. We designate open and closed refuge hunting areas on the map in the refuge hunt brochure, which the hunter must possess and carry. The refuge can designate temporary closed hunting areas at the management's discretion for refuge management activities (prescribed burns, forestry, habitat restoration, wildlife management).
3. You must park vehicles in a manner that does not block roads or gates (see Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter).
4. We prohibit the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicles (UTVs) (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this chapter).
5. We prohibit horses.
6. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in Sec. 32).
7. We prohibit hunting from or within 150 feet (45 m) of all refuge roads open to public vehicle travel.
8. We prohibit construction of permanent blinds or stands.
9. In addition to State hunter education requirements, an adult (parent or guardian) age 21 or older must supervise and must remain within sight of and in normal voice contact of the youth hunter age 15 and under. Parents or adult guardians are responsible for ensuring that hunters under age 16 do not engage in conduct that would constitute a violation of the refuge regulations. An adult may supervise no more than two youths.
10. We prohibit guiding or participating in a guided hunt where a fee is charged.
11. We prohibit target practice or any nonhunting discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
12. We prohibit marking any tree, or other refuge feature, with flagging, litter, paint, or blaze.
13. We prohibit flagging, reflective markers, paint, litter, or pins for marking in any manner on refuge property, with the exception of the following: Clothes type pins or clips with reflective or colored markings can be used for the temporary marking of vegetation in order to identify a route of travel to or from a tree stand. You must remove these pins at the end of deer season (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter). Each clothes type pin or clip must contain both the name and hunting license number of the hunter.
14. Hunters utilizing the refuge are subject to inspection of licenses, permits, hunting equipment, bag limits, vehicles, and their contents during compliance checks by refuge or State law enforcement officer.
15. Hunters must be at their vehicles by 1 hour after legal shooting time.
16. We prohibit cleaning of game within 1,000 feet (300 m) of any developed public recreation area, game check station, or gate.
17. We prohibit the dumping of game carcasses on the refuge.
18. We prohibit consumption of alcohol or possession of open alcohol containers while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of feral hog, gray squirrel, armadillo, opossum, rabbit, raccoon, coyote, and beaver on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1 through A18 apply.
2. We will print dates for the refuge upland game (small game) and raccoon/opossum hunting seasons in the annual refuge hunt brochure. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.
3. You may use only .17, .22, and .22 magnum caliber rimfire rifle firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter), bows, or shotguns with nontoxic shot no larger than 4 birdshot, or muzzleloader or.40 caliber or less when hunting (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
4. We allow night hunting in accordance with State regulations for raccoon and opossum during nighttime hours from legal sunset until legal sunrise.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of big game on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1 through A18 apply.
2. During the refuge archery season, hunters may only use archery equipment in accordance with State archery regulations.
3. During the refuge muzzleloader season, hunters may only use muzzleloading firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter) in accordance with State muzzleloader regulations.
4. We prohibit driving or screwing any metal object into a tree or hunting from a tree in which a metal object has been driven or screwed to support a hunter (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
5. Temporary tree stands may be left on the refuge starting one week before archery season and must be removed by the last day of hog season. All tree stands left on the refuge within the hunt season must display the hunters name and hunting license number legibly written on or attached to the stand. We may confiscate and dispose of tree stands not in compliance (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter). You may use tree stands during small game season, but you must remove them by the last day of this season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
6. All hunters (including all persons accompanying hunters) must wear a minimum of 500 square inches (3,250 square centimeters) of fluorescent orange visible above the waistline while hunting during all refuge deer gun hunts.
7. We prohibit the use of organized drives for taking or attempting to take game.
8. We will publish the dates of the refuge general gun season in the annual refuge hunt brochure. Contact the refuge office for specific dates. Consult the Florida State Zone C for current State regulations.
9. The family hunt follows the refuge general gun season. We will print dates in the annual refuge hunt brochure. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.
10. The refuge will provide an annual feral (wild) hog hunt. We will print dates in the annual refuge hunt brochure. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.
11. During the youth turkey hunt, an adult age 18 or older must accompany the youth, age 15 and younger, but only the youth hunter may hunt.
12. We allow hunting of deer (except spotted fawns), feral hog (no size or bag limit), gray squirrel, rabbit, armadillo, opossum, raccoon, beaver, and coyote during the archery season.
13. We prohibit harvesting antlered deer not having one (1) antler with two (2) or more points, except persons younger than age 16 may harvest any antlered deer with one (1) antler 5 inches (12.7 centimeters) or more in length. You may take feral hog (no bag or size limit) during the archery, muzzleloader, and general-gun season.
14. Hunters may take feral hog (no size or bag limit), and a maximum of two deer per day, during the family hunt, except only one deer may be antlerless for each day of the family hunts.
15. Hunters may take only feral hog (no size or bag limit) during the feral (wild) hog hunt.
16. Hunters must fill out a Big Game Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-2359) and check all game harvested during all deer and hog hunts.
17. Hunters may take only bearded turkeys and only during the State Zone C youth turkey hunts and spring turkey season.
18. Shooting hours for spring turkey begin 1/2 hour before legal sunrise and end at 1 p.m.
19. We only allow shotguns with shot no larger than size 2 common shot or bows and arrows for spring turkey hunting.
20. We prohibit crossbows except with a State-issued disabled crossbow permit. You may not use a crossbow during muzzleloader season.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Anglers may take game and nongame fish only with pole and line or rod and reel.
2. We prohibit taking of frogs and turtles (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
3. We prohibit leaving boats on the refuge overnight (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of Federal, State, and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and part 32).
2. Hunters must possess and carry a current, signed Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) at all times while hunting waterfowl on the refuge.
3. Hunters must possess and carry (or hunt within 30 yards [27 m] of a hunter who possesses) a valid refuge waterfowl hunting quota permit (State permit) while hunting in areas 1 or 4 from the beginning of the regular waterfowl season through December 31. No more than four hunters will hunt using a single valid refuge waterfowl hunting quota permit.
4. We allow hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and all Federal holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day, that fall within the State's waterfowl season.
5. We allow hunting in four designated areas of the refuge as delineated in the refuge hunting regulations map. We prohibit hunters to enter the normal or expanded restricted areas of the Kennedy Space Center.
6. We allow hunting of only waterfowl on refuge-established hunt days from the legal shooting time (\1/2\ hour before legal sunrise) until 1 p.m.
7. We allow entrance to the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. for the purpose of waterfowl hunting.
8. We require all hunters to successfully complete a State-approved hunter education course.
9. We require an adult, age 21 or older, to supervise hunters age 15 and younger.
10. We prohibit accessing a hunt area from Black Point Wildlife Drive. We prohibit leaving vehicles parked on Black Point Wildlife Drive, Playalinda Beach Road, or Scrub Ridge Trail (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
11. We prohibit construction of permanent blinds (see Sec. 27.92 of this chapter) or digging into dikes.
12. We prohibit hunting or shooting within 15 feet (4.5 m) or shooting from any portion of a dike, dirt road, or railroad grade.
13. We prohibit hunting or shooting within 150 yards (135 m) of SR 402, SR 406, any paved road right-of-way, or any road open to vehicle traffic. We prohibit shooting over any dike or roadway.
14. All hunters must stop at posted refuge waterfowl check stations and report statistical hunt information on the Migratory Bird Hunt Report (FWS Form 3-2361) to refuge personnel.
15. Hunters may not possess more than 25 shells in one hunt day.
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. We allow you to fish, crab, clam, oyster, and shrimp in designated areas of the refuge as delineated in the refuge fishing regulations map in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Anglers must possess and carry a current, signed refuge fishing permit (signed brochure) at all times while fishing on the refuge.
2. We prohibit fishing after legal sunset or before legal sunrise, except that we allow fishing at night from a vessel in the open waters of Mosquito Lagoon, Indian River Lagoon, Banana River, and Haulover Canal.
3. We allow launching of boats for night fishing activities only from Bair's Cove, Beacon 42, and Bio Lab boat ramps.
4. We prohibit crabbing or fishing, and access for the purpose of crabbing or fishing, from Black Point Wildlife Drive or any side road connected to Black Point Wildlife Drive except L Pond Road.
5. We prohibit launching boats, canoes, or kayaks from Black Point Wildlife Drive or any side road connected to Black Point Wildlife Drive except L Pond Road.
6. Anglers and crabbers must attend their lines at all times.
7. We prohibit harvesting and possession of horseshoe crab, frog, turtle, snake, and/or other wildlife (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
8. We prohibit use of personal watercraft, air thrust boats, and hovercraft.
9. Vessels must not exceed idle speed in Bairs Cove and KARS Marina.
10. We prohibit motorized vessels in the Banana River within the posted ``No-Motor Zone,'' including any vessel having an attached motor or a nonattached motor capable of use (including electric trolling motor).
11. We prohibit fishing within the normal or expanded restricted areas of the Kennedy Space Center (KSC), unless those areas are officially designated by KSC as special fishing opportunity sites.
12. We allow vessels drafting 12[sec] (30 cm) or less (measured while vessel is fully stopped) to be propelled only by poling, paddling, drifting, or electric trolling motors in the established Pole & Troll Zone(s), except in the posted running channels.
13. We prohibit fish cleaning on refuge property.
14. We prohibit kite surfing, kite boarding, wind surfing, sail boarding, and other similar nonwildlife-oriented recreational activities.
15. We require all guides to purchase, possess, and carry a Commercial Harvesting Permit (NPS Form 10-930).
16. We will remove abandoned or unchecked crab pots after 72 hours (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
17. We prohibit glass beverage containers.
18. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of Federal, State, and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and part 32).
Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. Fishing is permitted on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Fishing is permitted year-round.
2. Bank fishing from spoil islands is permitted, during daylight hours only.
Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing in refuge-managed waters year-round in areas designated as open, in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow fishing only from vessels in the waters surrounding Tarpon Key.
2. We close refuge lands to all public use.
3. We prohibit the disturbance of any nesting birds, wildlife, or vegetation.
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. You must remove blinds daily (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
2. We allow retriever dogs to recover game.
3. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting in the Executive Closure Areas on the refuge.
4. Hunters may access the hunt area by boat.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of grey squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require refuge permits (signed brochure) for hunting upland game. Permits are available at no cost from the refuge office or can be downloaded and printed from the refuge Web site. Each hunter must possess and carry a signed refuge permit while participating in a hunt.
2. All visitors must wear 500 square inches (3,250 cm\2\) of fluorescent orange above the waistline while in a designated hunting unit during a refuge hunt.
3. You may use .22 caliber or smaller rim-fire rifles, shotguns with nontoxic shot (4 bird shot or smaller) (see Sec. 32.2(k)), or muzzleloaders to harvest squirrel, rabbit, and raccoon. In addition, you may use shotgun slugs, buckshot, archery equipment, or pistols to take feral hogs. We prohibit the use of other weapons.
4. We allow the use of leashed dogs for trailing injured or harvested game. We prohibit unleashed dogs.
5. There is no limit on the size or number of feral hog that hunters may take.
6. We allow hunting on designated areas of the refuge. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.
7. We prohibit hunting from any named or numbered road (with the exception of persons hunting during the mobility impaired hunt).
8. We prohibit cleaning of game within 1,000 feet (300 m) of any residence, developed public recreation area, or game check station.
9. You must check out all game taken at a game check station.
10. We prohibit the use of flagging, paint, blazes, or reflective trail markers (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
11. We limit vehicle access to permitted hunters during the hunt.
12. Portions of the refuge adjacent to Flint Rock Wildlife Management Area (as specified in the hunt brochure) will be open concurrent with Flint Rock Wildlife Management Area seasons and regulations except only feral hog, grey squirrel, rabbit, and raccoon may be harvested.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require refuge permits (hunters apply through State for license--fee charged). Permits are nontransferable. There is an additional fee for duplicate permits. Each hunter must possess and carry a signed permit when participating in a hunt. Prior to hunting each day, you must check-in at a hunt check station as specified in the refuge hunt brochure. You must check out upon completion if hunting each day.
2. Conditions B2 and B4 through B11 apply.
3. You may access the refuge hunt areas by vehicle for pre-hunt scouting 2 days prior to the hunt for which you are drawn (lottery administered by the State).
4. There is a two deer limit per hunt as specified in condition C8 below, except in the youth hunt where the limit is as specified in C9 below. The limit for turkey is one per hunt. There is no limit on feral hog.
5. We prohibit the use of deer decoys.
6. There are two fall archery hunts: Hunters may harvest either-sex deer, feral hog, and either-sex turkey during the fall archery hunts. There will be a fall archery hunt on the Panacea and Wakulla Units.
7. There are two modern gun hunts. Hunters may harvest deer, feral hog, and bearded turkey. Modern guns must meet State requirements. We will hold one hunt on the Panacea Unit and one hunt on the Wakulla Unit. See condition C8 for game limits. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.
8. The bag limit for white-tailed deer is two deer per scheduled hunt period. We allow hunters to harvest two antlerless deer per scheduled hunt period. We define antlerless deer per State regulations (i.e., un-antlered deer or antlered deer with both antlers less than 5 inches (12.7 centimeters) in length). Otherwise, hunters may harvest one antlerless deer and one antlered deer per hunt. Hunters must ensure that antlered deer have at least 3 points, of 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) or more in length on one antler.
9. There is one youth hunt, for youth ages 12 to 17, on the St. Marks Unit in an area we will specify in the refuge hunt brochure. Hunters may harvest two deer, either two un-antlered deer as defined in C8 or one un-antlered deer and one antlered deer. An adult age 21 or older acting as a mentor must accompany each youth hunter. One youth turkey hunt will be conducted in a similar manner. The limit will be one gobbler per hunter. Only the youth hunter may handle or discharge firearms. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.
10. There is one mobility-impaired hunt. Hunters may have an assistant accompany them. You may transfer permits issued to assistants. We limit those hunt teams to harvesting white-tailed deer and feral hog within the limits described in condition C8. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.
11. There is one spring gobbler turkey hunt. You may harvest one bearded turkey per hunt. You may only use shotguns or archery equipment to harvest turkey. Contact the refuge office for specific dates. We prohibit hunting after 1 p.m.
12. Portions of the refuge adjacent to Flint Rock Wildlife Management Area (as specified in the hunt brochure) will be open concurrent with Flint Rock Wildlife Management Area seasons and regulations except only white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey may be harvested. We require a refuge permit (signed brochure).
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit taking blue crabs from impounded water on the St. Marks Unit.
2. We only allow fishing in refuge lakes, ponds, and impoundments from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to \1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
3. We allow fishing in tidal and coastal waters 24 hours per day year-round.
4. We prohibit use of boats with motors over 10 hp on any refuge lake or pond.
5. We allow use of hand-launched boats on impoundments on the St. Marks Unit from March 15 through October 15 each year. We prohibit launching of boats from trailers in the impoundments in the St. Marks Unit. We prohibit all gasoline-powered motors in the impoundments in the St. Marks Unit.
6. We prohibit taking of frogs or turtles (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
7. We prohibit use of cast nets or traps to take fish from any lake, pond, or impoundment on the refuge.
8. You must attend all fishing equipment.
9. We prohibit bow fishing on refuge lakes, ponds, and impoundments.
10. The interior ponds and lakes on the Panacea Unit are open year-round for bank fishing. We open vehicle access to these areas from March 15 through May 15 each year. Ponds and lakes that anglers access from County Road 372 are open year-round for fishing and boating.
11. We prohibit commercially registered boats, air-thrust boats, commercial guides, and personal watercraft to launch at the saltwater boat ramp on the St. Marks Unit.
12. We prohibit air-thrust boats, personal watercraft, and commercial guides to launch from Wakulla Beach.
13. All fish must remain in a whole condition when being transported from the refuge.
St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, sambar deer, raccoon, and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We require refuge permits (State license--fee charged). The permits are nontransferable, and the hunter must possess and carry them while hunting. Only signed permits are valid. We only allow people with a signed refuge hunt permit on the island during the hunt periods. Contact the refuge office for details on receiving a permit. We will charge fees for duplicate permits.
2. We restrict hunting to three periods: Sambar deer, raccoon, and feral hog (primitive weapons); white-tailed deer, raccoon, feral hog (archery); and white-tailed deer, raccoon, and feral hog (primitive weapons). Contact the refuge office for specific dates. Hunters may check-in and set up camp sites and stands on the day prior to the scheduled hunt as specified in the brochure. Hunters must leave the island and remove all equipment by the date and time specified in the brochure.
3. Hunters must check in at the check stations on the island. We restrict entry onto St. Vincent Island to the Indian Pass and West Pass Campsites. We restrict entry during the sambar deer hunt to the West Pass Campsite. All access to hunt areas will be on foot or by bicycle from these areas.
4. Hunt hours are \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until 3 p.m. for the sambar deer hunt. All other hunt times will be in accordance with State regulations.
5. We restrict camping and fires (see Sec. 27.95(a) of this chapter) to the two designated camping areas. We may restrict or ban fires during dry periods.
6. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages during the refuge hunt period (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
7. You may set up tree stands only after you check in, and you must remove them from the island at the end of the hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
8. You may retrieve game from the closed areas only if accompanied by a refuge staff member or a refuge officer.
9. We limit weapons to primitive weapons (bow and arrow and muzzleloader) on the sambar deer hunt and the primitive weapons white-tailed deer hunt. We limit the archery hunt to bow and arrow. Weapons must meet all State regulations. We prohibit crossbows during the white-tailed deer archery hunt except with a State disabled persons permit.
10. We allow only stand, still, and stalk hunting. We prohibit game drives.
11. We prohibit the use of flagging, paint, blazes, or reflective trail markers.
12. We prohibit target practice on the refuge (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter). You may discharge muzzleloaders at the designated discharge area between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m.
13. Nonmovement stand hours for all hunts will be from legal morning shooting time until 9 a.m.
14. We prohibit discharging of weapons (including cap firing) in campgrounds (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
15. Hunting weapons must have the caps removed from muzzleloaders and arrows quivered before and after legal shooting hours.
16. Hunters must check out at the check station prior to leaving the refuge at the end of their hunt. A refuge staff member or volunteer must check the campsites before the hunters leave the refuge.
17. We prohibit motorized equipment, generators, or land vehicles (except bicycles).
18. Bag limits:
i. Sambar deer hunt--one sambar deer of either sex, no limit on feral hog or raccoon.
ii. Archery hunt--one white-tailed deer of either sex (no spotted fawns or spike bucks), no limits on feral hog or raccoon.
iii. Primitive weapons hunt--one white-tailed deer buck having one or more forked antlers at least 5 inches (12.5 cm) in length visible above the hairline with points greater than 1 inch (12.5 cm) in length; we issue a limited number of either-sex permits. If you have an either-sex permit, the bag limit is one deer that may be antlerless or a buck with legal antler configuration. There is no limit on feral hog or raccoon.
19. We prohibit bringing live game into the check station.
20. Hunters must observe quiet time in the campground between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. We prohibit loud or boisterous behavior or activity.
21. We prohibit domestic animals.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. You may fish from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to \1/2\ hour after legal sunset year-round.
2. We allow boats with electric motors. You must remove all other motors from the boats and secure them to a designated motor rack with a lock and chain.
3. We prohibit the use of live minnows as bait.
4. We allow boats in refuge lakes from May 15 through September 30.
5. We allow the use of only rods and reels or poles and lines in the refuge lakes. Anglers must attend their fishing equipment at all times.
6. You may take only fish species and fish limits authorized by State regulations. We prohibit taking of frog and/or turtle.
Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck and coot in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting daily during the early wood duck/teal season.
2. We allow hunting only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal holidays that fall within the State's waterfowl season, including: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
3. Hunters must possess and carry a valid, signed refuge permit (signed brochure) at all times while hunting on the refuge.
4. We allow only hunting in the areas posted and shown on the refuge hunt brochure.
5. Hunters may enter the refuge from the south side of U.S. 41. We allow hunting from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until 12 p.m. Hunters may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. and must remove all decoys, guns, blinds, and other related equipment (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) by 1 p.m. daily.
6. We prohibit hunting within 100 yards (90 m) of the south edge of U.S. 41 and the area posted around Marsh Trail extending south from U.S. 41.
7. We prohibit pit blinds and permanent blinds (see Sec. 27.92 of this chapter).
8. We allow and recommend prehunt scouting from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
9. Hunters may only take duck and coot with a shotgun (no larger than a 10 gauge). We prohibit target practice on the refuge (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
10. We prohibit air-thrust boats, hovercraft, personal watercraft (jet skis, jet boats, and wave runners), and off-road vehicles at all times. We limit vessels to a maximum of a 25 hp outboard motor.
11. We require all commercial guides to purchase, possess, and carry a refuge Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383).
12. We allow and recommend use of dogs for waterfowl retrieval. Dogs must remain under the immediate control of their handlers at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). We allow dogs during prehunt scouting.
13. We allow youth hunt days in accordance with State regulations. We also will designate a special youth hunt day during the second phase of the regular State waterfowl season that we will specify in the annual hunt brochure. Hunters under age 16 may hunt only with a nonhunting adult age 18 or older. Youth hunters must remain within sight and sound of the nonhunting adult.
14. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of Federal, State, and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and part 32).
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing and crabbing on the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit air-thrust boats, hovercraft, personal watercraft (jet skis, jet boats, and wave runners), and off-road vehicles in the freshwater and brackish marsh area south of U.S. 41. We limit vessels to a maximum of 25 hp outboard motor.
2. We allow fishing in the freshwater and brackish marsh area of the refuge year-round from legal sunrise to legal sunset. You may fish the tidal and barrier island area of the refuge year-round 24 hours a day.
3. We only allow crabbing for recreational use in the freshwater and brackish marsh area of the refuge. You may use a dip or landing net, drop net, or hook and line.
4. We prohibit commercial fishing and the taking of snake, turtle, frog, and other wildlife (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter) in the freshwater and brackish marsh area of the refuge.
5. We prohibit the use of trotlines, gigs, spears, bush hooks, snatch hooks, crossbows, or bows and arrows of any type in the freshwater and brackish marsh area of the refuge.
6. Anglers and crabbers must attend their lines at all times.
7. We require all commercial guides operating in the freshwater and brackish marsh area of the refuge to purchase, possess, and carry a refuge Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383). [58 FR 5064, Jan. 19, 1993, as amended at 59 FR 6690, Feb. 11, 1994; 59 FR 55185, Nov. 3, 1994; 61 FR 46394, Sept. 3, 1996; 62 FR 47376, Sept. 9, 1997; 63 FR 46915, Sept. 3, 1998; 65 FR 30781, May 12, 2000; 65 FR 56401, Sept. 18, 2000; 66 FR 46355, Sept. 4, 2001; 67 FR 58944, Sept. 18, 2002; 69 FR 54362, 54378, Sept. 8, 2004; 70 FR 54163, Sept. 13, 2005; 73 FR 33168, June 11, 2008; 74 FR 45682, Sept. 3, 2009; 76 FR 3956, Jan. 21, 2011; 76 FR 56066, Sept. 9, 2011; 77 FR 56037, Sept. 11, 2012; 79 FR 14825, Mar. 17, 2014; 80 FR 51894, Aug. 26, 2015]