Introduction to Small Game
Small game hunting is a beloved outdoor activity that brings hunters closer to nature while honing their skills. Among the various types of small game, coon hunting, or hunting raccoons, stands out for its unique challenges and rewards. Coon hunters need specialized skills and equipment to track and catch these nocturnal animals. Night hunting with dogs and lights is a common method, as raccoons are most active after dark. The thrill of the hunt, the bond with hunting dogs, and the satisfaction of a successful catch make coon hunting a favorite among small game enthusiasts. Whether you’re after raccoons, squirrels, or rabbits, the principles of small game hunting remain the same: patience, precision, and respect for the wildlife.
Cypress Knees and Palm Shadows
Florida’s swamplands, hammocks, and pine flats offer a unique setting for raccoon hunting. Raccoons are particularly active during the summer months due to the warm temperatures. With year-round warmth, thick undergrowth, and expansive wetlands, raccoons thrive across the state. Night hunting is not just a method here—it’s a necessity. Whether working with hounds or easing through the swamp with a flashlight in hand, Florida offers a consistent and challenging raccoon hunting experience wrapped in humidity and moonlight.
Raccoon Habitat in the Sunshine State
Florida raccoons tend to favor the edge—where water meets land, where cover meets food. Swamps lined with cypress, palmetto thickets, and riverbanks with hardwood overstory all hold raccoons. Raccoons often search for food near deer feeders, especially during winter. They’re particularly active in areas near freshwater sources and along drainage ditches that cut through pine flatwoods or near agricultural operations. Fallen logs, culverts, and old structures become favored den sites, especially in areas with dense human or livestock presence.
Movement and Night Patterns
Raccoons in Florida are almost exclusively nocturnal, especially during the warm months. Evening hunts begin at sundown, with movement peaking in the early hours after dark. Raccoon movement peaks within the first hour after sundown. Cloudy or humid nights keep raccoons active longer, while heavy rains can either scatter or concentrate them depending on how quickly the water recedes. After storms, hunt higher ground or the edge of flood zones where raccoons go to feed and travel.
Using Light Effectively
Bright light discipline is key in Florida’s raccoon woods. A quality headlamp with adjustable brightness and a handheld spotlight allow for scanning treetops and navigating dense cover. Avoid constant movement—hold the light still and scan methodically. Eyeshine is your best clue, especially in thick palmetto or under heavy canopy. Red or amber filters can reduce spooking animals while still revealing movement. On foot or in a boat, managing your beam direction and intensity helps keep the woods quiet and productive.
Dog Work in the Florida Swamps
Hounds remain the most effective way to locate and tree raccoons in Florida. Hunting dogs are also adept at tracking other game, such as hogs. The landscape is dense, often wet, and difficult to hunt without canine help. Dogs work through the heavy brush, bayhead edges, and swamp islands where raccoons roam. Once a track is struck, hunters move quickly to follow the chase, often needing boats, swamp buggies, or simply good boots and stamina. GPS tracking collars are critical tools for monitoring hound movement in this terrain.
Timing the Hunt
While raccoons in Florida are active year-round, late fall through spring offers the best combination of comfort and movement. Winter poses unique challenges for raccoon hunters, as food sources become scarce and raccoons actively search for sustenance. Cooler temperatures mean fewer insects, less snake activity, and more predictable raccoon behavior. Moon phases can affect visibility, and many hunters prefer darker nights for higher movement. Plan hunts around weather shifts—cool evenings after warm days often bring raccoons out early and in greater numbers.
Land Access and Opportunities
Florida’s wildlife management areas and public lands offer raccoon hunting in designated zones, often with specific rules regarding dogs and night hunting. Hunters may need a permit for certain activities, such as hunting on private land or using specific equipment. Swampier regions in the central and northern parts of the state tend to hold more game and offer easier access. Private landowners, especially those near water or timber operations, may also allow raccoon hunting by permission. Always check area-specific regulations, including any seasonal closures or equipment restrictions.
Predator Hunting
Predator hunting is an exhilarating pursuit that targets animals like coyotes, foxes, and bobcats. Much like coon hunting, predator hunting often takes place at night and requires a keen understanding of animal behavior and effective use of equipment. Coon hunters can easily transition to predator hunting, as the skills and techniques overlap significantly. In Florida, predator hunting is permitted in designated areas, allowing hunters to use firearms, traps, and other tools to manage predator populations. The challenge of outsmarting these cunning animals and the thrill of the hunt make predator hunting a rewarding experience for those looking to expand their hunting repertoire.
Night Fishing and Safety
Night fishing offers a unique and thrilling experience, much like night hunting. The calm and quiet of the night, combined with the anticipation of a catch, make it an exciting adventure. However, safety is paramount when fishing after dark. Proper lighting, such as LED headlamps or spotlights, is essential to illuminate the water and surrounding area, ensuring you can see and be seen. Coon hunters who enjoy night fishing should be particularly mindful of safety precautions to avoid accidents. Night fishing can be especially rewarding, with species like catfish and bass being more active after the sun sets. By combining the right equipment with a focus on safety, night fishing can be a fun and productive way to enjoy the outdoors.
The Glow in the Trees
There’s nothing quite like the moment a raccoon is spotted high in the limbs, the glow of its eyes revealing its perch among the moss and leaves. Sometimes, hunters find raccoons hanging from tree limbs, making retrieval efforts more challenging. Florida’s raccoon woods demand attention, patience, and the ability to move quietly in a landscape that rarely sleeps. For those who embrace the humidity, the thorns, and the tangle, raccoon hunting in Florida becomes more than a nighttime pursuit—it becomes part of the rhythm of the land.
Conclusion and Tips
Raccoon hunting in Florida is a unique and rewarding experience that combines the thrill of the hunt with the beauty of the state’s diverse landscapes. From the dense swamps to the pine flatwoods, each hunt offers a new challenge and a chance to hone your skills. Remember to use the best lights and equipment, respect the wildlife, and always prioritize safety. Whether you’re a seasoned coon hunter or new to the sport, the key to a successful hunt lies in preparation, patience, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Happy hunting!
FAQs
Where do raccoons live in Florida?
Raccoons are found in swamps, pine flatwoods, palmetto thickets, and near water sources like rivers, ditches, and flood zones. They often choose the middle of hollow tree trunks or similar sheltered areas as their resting spots during the day.
When is the best time to hunt raccoons in Florida?
Late fall through spring offers cooler weather and more consistent raccoon activity, especially on humid or cloudy nights. Cooler morning conditions can enhance raccoon activity, making it a good time for hunting.
Do I need dogs to hunt raccoons in Florida?
Dogs are the most effective method in Florida’s dense swamps, but some hunters also spot and call raccoons using lights and bait.
What lights work best for raccoon hunting in Florida?
A strong headlamp, a handheld spotlight, and red or amber filters help spot raccoons without spooking them in thick cover. For raccoon hunting in Florida, choosing the best light is crucial to ensure brightness, battery life, and effectiveness in various hunting scenarios.
Can I hunt raccoons on public land in Florida?
Yes, many wildlife management areas allow raccoon hunting with specific rules for night hunting and dog use. Hunters may need a permit for hunting on public lands, depending on the specific regulations of the area. Always verify regulations before entering the field.