Florida Osceola Hunt Recommendation

Is there a reason you prefer guided on public land and not guided on private land?

Anyone got any advice on potential public areas to research?

Florida resident here. A few dozen Osceola birds behind me.

If looking at next year you are pretty much looking at a guided/outfitted hunt. The good news; if any, is that with the tough economy you may be able to talk an outfitter into a hunt at a relative bargain. Still expect to pay somewhere around $3K for a single bird hunt.

Quota WMA permits for high quality units are now commanding 2-4 preference points. If starting this year; you are looking at 2027 at best. Non-draw public options are out there; with a less than 5-10% chance of success.

I want to be very clear that turkey populations are way down in FL. Private land is a vastly superior option compared to public. I did a 4 day hunt on what most would argue is FL’s best public land hunt in March. In years past it wasn’t uncommon to hear dozens of gobblers. In 4 days I heard two. Most of the birds harvested were Jake’s. I see no reason to be optimistic about next year being better. Those enthusiastic 2 year olds already died as Jake’s.

Can email me at -<—- myusername@hotmail.com if you want more intel.