WMA high water closure question

[Raul G]

With the recent closure of several WMA's in south florida and elsewhere, but particularly the Glades, because of high water and the "stress" on fauna there, can one still hunt teal (and woodie) this upcoming season adhering to the 1 mile from the canal limits in the language of the directive?? The last time this occurred I bagged it and went to the Big O, but I'd rather stay near home and try it if I can. Any suggestions?

[novaalex]

In Time Of High Water Blue And Green Birds Do Not Fly!

[Raul G]

Hey Alex, good to hear from you! I had my sights set on a pair of woodies if possible. I guess that won't be in the Glades because of the closure. I did make the trip to the Big O a couple of years ago for the same reasons and bagged a pair of woodies. I could hear the airboaters gunning the blue wings about a mile away. I had not been able to do any scouting and just "winged" it and got lucky. Actually, in my estimation, after all the work around the house and the usual stresses, a trip to the lake is is worth it anyway just to motor around- something we could not do last year.

[novaalex]

You Could Try Other Areas Of The Glades That Are Not Closed!

[Raul G]

Thank you Nova! I might go mid-state and try out the bow since I have a permit. I haven't had the opportunity to scout so the ducking may have to wait till November. Be well!

[duckmanJR]

Raul..look at the WMA brochure for your area...you may be able to hunt woodies AND deer since many brochures say " Migratory waterfowl may be hunted during established seasons that coincide bla blah blah...... If you have a permit that allows access...

[Raul G]

Ok, Duckmanjr, I will have a look at the WMA regs...although the closure like so many years running because of high water ran usually into just before the november regular duck season start. Maybe there is a loophole? Jpsq2, I need your expertise!

[novaalex]

NO loophole in the Glades, it clearly says "no hunting unless you are a licensed gator trapper or agent participating in the statewide gator hunt". That means that even those who acquired airboat quota permits are out. It says that you can access the marsh up to a certain area but that is for fishing only! Joe is referring to other WMA's that might be possible, e.g. Southern Glades in Florida City.

[Raul G]

10-4 Nova, I will just dream of bwt buzzing the dekes at first light...going to get my bow ready. I haven't washed my truck in ages, I might just do that.