PRIVATE LAND
Since Osceolas are found in both the South Zone and part of the Central Zone, turkey hunters going after one of these bronze beauties need to be aware of two sets of season dates. In the South Zone, turkey season runs from March 4 to April 9. In the Northeast Zone, the dates are March 18 through April 23.

You can use decoys if you like, and can hunt with shotguns, as well as bows and arrows, muzzle-loading guns, crossbows and handguns.

PUBLIC LAND
When you start looking at wildlife management areas or wildlife and environmental areas, season dates and regulations vary from tract to tract. On these areas, shooting hours are from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1:00 p.m.

Most WMAs -- and all the newer ones -- have hunts managed under the Quota Hunt, Special Opportunity Hunt, or Recreational Use Permit programs. At this point in the year, unless you already have one of these permits, you're shut out until next year. However, there are still a few public properties that don't require a permit.

Keep in mind that circumstances do change, so check the regulations on each of these areas before you go.

NORTH CENTRAL REGION
Big Bend WMA Jena Unit
This, the southernmost unit of the Big Bend WMA, covers 12,522 acres, and is located in Dixie County. The season runs March 18 through April 23.

The only special requirement for hunting here is a daily use permit. To get this permit, stop by one of the check stations on your way into the area.

Lochloosa WMA
This 11,149-acre WMA is located in Alachua County. The season runs from March 18 through April 23. Lochloosa Lake is in the middle of the area, and the swamp around the lake is a good place to look for turkeys.

Santa Fe Swamp WEA
Santa Fe Swamp WEA is located in Bradford County and covers 5,627 acres. Turkey season here runs from March 18 through April 23. The area is just north of Little Santa Fe Lake.

NORTHEAST REGION
Bull Creek WMA
Located in Osceola County, this area covers 23,646 acres. The season starts March 18 and goes to April 23. The Florida Trail crosses this area, so be aware of the presence of hikers.

Jumper Creek WMA
Turkey season on Jumper Creek WMA runs March 18 to April 23. The area has 10,512 acres and is located in Sumter County, right along the Withlacoochee River and just southwest of Lake Panasoffkee.

Richloam WMA
Richloam covers 56,401 acres in Hernando, Pasco, Sumter and Lake counties. The season runs from March 18 through April 23. You must have a Quota Hunt permit during the first nine days of the season, but after that, any licensed hunter is welcome.

Upper St. Johns River Marsh WMA
Located in Brevard and Indian River counties, Upper St. Johns River Marsh WMA sprawls across 119,419 acres. The season here runs March 18 through April 23. No permits are required for any hunts on this area.