Recreation (updated
yearly)
In support of the resource management goals and objectives for the
area and to provide a quality experience for all area users, the following
recreation activities are allowed.
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Youth Dove Hunting
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Hunting is limited to high quality hunts with a limited number of
hunters during seasons that run from September to March. A
hunting
license, Wildlife
Management Area Permit and a
quota hunt permit are required to hunt here. Check the
Dinner Island Ranch Hunt Brochure for the type of quota permit
required for each season. This area was one of the most sought after
quota hunt areas in the state when it was opened for hunting in 2003.
The area boasts excellent hog hunting and good opportunities for deer,
turkey, dove and migratory birds.
Fishing is permitted throughout the area but opportunities are
limited to bank fishing along canals and in scattered ponds. Water
levels fluctuate with seasonal rainfall. Appropriate
licenses and permits
are required.
Dinner Island Ranch WMA is an excellent place to view wildlife
year-round. Wading birds of all types - ibis, herons, egrets, wood
storks, roseate spoonbills - as well as Florida sandhill cranes, crested
caracaras, kestrels and white-tailed deer are common. This area is part
of the Great
Florida Birding Trail. You may also
request a copy or download or print the
Dinner Island
Ranch Bird List -
pdf file. Visit the
Wildlife page
for more information about the area's wildlife.
Road through improved pasture
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Hikes are pleasant along the unpaved roads and mowed trails from fall
through spring. Eight short trail segments branch off from the unpaved
roads. All trails are open to vehicles during hunts and seasonal
rainfall periodically floods some trail sections. Trail 5 is the driest
trail and offers one the best opportunities for foot travel.
Off-road bicyclists will find that the unpaved road offers the best travel
conditions. Mountain bikes may be able to travel on Trail 5 (see
Hiking). Both roads and trails offer great scenery and abundant
wildlife.
Horses are prohibited during hunting seasons with the exception of
the dove hunts on established dove fields. At other times, horses are
permitted on named and numbered roads and designated equestrian trails
only.
During established hunting seasons, individuals may camp at the
designated primitive campsite. A primitive camping area accessible by
special use permit may be developed in the near future.
Well-maintained, unpaved roads pass through a variety of natural
communities and offer opportunities to observe wildlife, wild flowers,
butterflies and much more.
Vehicle
use regulations.
