Does Florida have a gator hunting season?
William Rodriguez
Published Jan 24, 2026
Florida is the alligator hunting capital of the world!
Can you hunt alligator year round in Florida?
In making your Alligator hunting plans, you should consider that Gator tags are not required for private lands, and gators can be hunted year-round. Conversely, on public waters, Gator hunt tags are issued by the State of Florida on a limited first-come, first-served basis.
Can you legally hunt alligators in Florida?
1, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Statewide Alligator Hunt is perfectly legal, but you'll need a permit to participate. The FWC reports that more than 10,000 applicants will apply for about 5,000 permits; participants can harvest two alligators.
How much does alligator hunting cost in Florida?
Below is a list of our public hunt prices and trophy fees: One hunter, one sport size gator $1,850. One hunter, two-sport size gators $2,750. Two hunters a sport size gator each $3,500.
How much is an alligator tag in Florida?
The alligator trapping license/harvest permit and two hide validation CITES tags cost $272 for Florida residents, $22 for those with a Florida Resident Persons with Disabilities Hunting and Fishing License, and $1,022 for nonresidents. The cost for applicants who already have an alligator trapping license is $62.
15 related questions foundHow much is a gator worth?
Reportedly, Louisiana alligator hunters used to make between $20 – $40 per foot of unprocessed alligator. However, in 2017 and 2018 there was increased competition coming from overseas and this caused gator sales to drop to an all-time low.
How much does Troy Landry make alligator hunting?
One of the show's most popular cast members, Troy Landry is said to earn the most from being on the show. He's said to have a net worth of $2 million and earns $30,000 per month from the show.
What caliber rifle is used for alligator hunting?
“All my life I've been gator hunting,” Troy Landry said when asked how long he's pursued these leathery beasts. When asked what it takes to kill a gator, he added, “You've got to hit him in the right spot. All we use is a . 22 magnum.
What caliber is best for alligator hunting?
Alligators may only be dispatched with a shotgun with shot size no larger than #6 shot (ex. 6, 7, 7.5, 8, and 9 shot only) or with a bangstick chambered in . 38 caliber or larger.
Why do alligator hunters use a 22?
Most use . 22 rimfires because the sound does not carry so far in the dark.
How much does an alligator tag cost?
Tags are property specific and must be used on the property indicated on the hunter's license. Alligator hunters must also have their license in possession to possess or sell wild alligators, their skins, or parts. Resident Alligator Hunter Licenses cost $25.
How much do Swamp People make?
He's said to have a net worth of $2 million and makes $30,000 per month from the show. His son Jacob makes $40 per Swamp People episode. Other sources say that the cast of the show makes as little as $10,000 per episode.
Is there a size limit on alligators in Florida?
Alligator hunting
American Alligator hunters with the proper permit may kill and keep two non-hatchling alligators per day, per permit, and each must be longer than 18 inches (46 cm). Also, all hunters must observe the legal alligator harvesting season which usually starts on September 1 in Florida.
Can you hunt gator at night in Florida?
The Alligator Hunt
In Florida, you can hunt day or night with a variety of weapons.
How many tags do you get for alligator season?
3 They Need At Least 50 Tags To Be On The Show
Swamp People devotes most of its screen time to hauling in big alligators, so it makes sense that they would want to focus on well-established hunters.
How do you scare off alligators?
Running away is a good option and a distance of around 20 or 30 feet is usually all it takes to get safely away from an alligator. "They are not made for running after prey," he said. Making a lot of noise can also scare off a gator before any attack begins.
What kind of rifle does Troy Landry use?
That's why the Landry family chooses Savage rifles. All three rifles—the Rascal, Mark II and Model 93—feature a rugged synthetic stock dipped in distinctive gator camouflage, as well as Troy Landry's signature and “Choot 'Em” logo.
Can a bullet pierce an alligator?
Not a chance. Alligator skin is definitely not designed for bullet protection and shooting a bullet at it will puncture a hole right through!
Who is pickle on Swamp People?
Pickle Wheat, whose real name is Cheyenne Wheat, is from Poydras. Hailing from a long line of gator wranglers, she is the new alligator hunter on the Swamp People team. Her great grandfather was one of the original alligator hunters in St. Bernard Parish, where she currently lives.
Where do you punch an alligator?
Punch its head
"Don't panic and punch at the animal's head; it's a very vulnerable spot for the alligator," Wasilewski said. "They are looking for easy prey, so they'll usually let go. Make as much noise as possible."
How do you hunt alligators in Florida?
The legal methods of take for alligators include: Fishing rods using a weighted treble hook.
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Legal methods of take for participating in Florida's statewide alligator harvest program include:
- Bows.
- Crossbows.
- Gigs.
- Harpoons.
- Spears.
- Spearguns.
What does Chase Landry do for a living?
Chase Landry net worth: Chase Landry is an American alligator hunter and reality television personality who has a net worth of $200 thousand. Chase Landry is based in Pierre Part, Louisiana, where, part of each year, he works as an alligator hunter with his family.