The Best Places to Go Iguana Hunting in Florida
Florida’s unique ecosystem and climate make it a haven for a variety of wildlife, including the invasive green iguana. These reptiles, native to Central and South America, have become a significant problem in the Sunshine State as well as several caribbean countries. At Intercoastal Safaris, we provide guided hunting experiences that not only offer thrilling adventure but also help control the iguana population. Here’s our guide to the best places for iguana hunting in Florida.
Why Hunt Iguanas?
Green iguanas seem harmless but actually pose a threat to Florida’s native flora and fauna. They cause extensive damage to gardens, sidewalks, seawalls, and canals, and their burrowing can lead to erosion. The damage to property is the driving factor for hunting by many Florida residents. While hunting these reptiles for sport you’re actually doing a huge service to protect the local environment.
Top Iguana Hunting Spots
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Miami-Dade County
Miami-Dade is ground zero for iguana infestation. The warm climate and lush landscapes create the perfect environment for these reptiles. I was in downtown Maimi a few months back and the iguanas were all over the city. Popular hunting areas include:
- Coral Gables: Known for its beautiful homes and gardens, Coral Gables also has a significant iguana problem. Hunters can often find iguanas lounging on seawalls or in tree canopies. In this area most hunts take place from a small boat in the various municipal canals in residential areas. Yes you can hunt with air rifles in city limits. Coral Gables is also home to excellent peacock bass fishing.
- Biscayne Bay: This area is a mostly aquatic National Park that offers both scenic views and ample hunting and fishing opportunities. Iguanas can be frequently seen basking on docks and boats. When targeting the sea walls and boat docks you need to be a good shot so you don’t damage private property.
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Broward County
Just north of Miami, Broward County is another hotspot for iguana activity. Key locations include:
- Fort Lauderdale: The waterways and residential areas of Fort Lauderdale provide ideal hunting grounds. The New River and Intracoastal Waterway are particularly active. It’s been our experience that the extensive canal systems around Fort Lauderdale make it easy to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.
- Plantation: Known for its parks and green spaces, Plantation is an excellent spot for finding large iguanas. While the waterways are not quite as extensive in Plantation, many of our guides do have standing agreements with private landowners such as HOAs and golf course operators.
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Palm Beach County
Palm Beach County, with its upscale neighborhoods and pristine beaches, also has a notable iguana population. Key hunting areas include:
- West Palm Beach & Boca Raton: The city’s golf courses, parks, and residential areas are frequented by iguanas, making it a prime hunting location. With its blend of coastal and urban environments, Boca Raton offers diverse hunting grounds, from beachfront properties to manicured lawns. The iguana hunting in both Boca Raton & West Palm Beach is similar to that of Plantation.
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Collier County
Over on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Collier County is another prime spot for iguana hunting. Notable locations include:
- Naples: Known for its luxury homes along its waterways, Naples is teeming with iguanas, particularly in the residential areas along the coast.
- Marco Island: This barrier island is not just a tourist destination but also a hotspot for iguanas, particularly around the island’s canals and waterfront properties.
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Monroe County
The Florida Keys, part of Monroe County, offer a unique island hunting experience. Key areas include:
- Key Largo: The northernmost of the Keys, Key Largo has numerous iguanas, especially around its marinas and resort areas. When hunting from a boat check out the clusters of mangrove trees. Additionally, despite Key Largo being an island in the Florida Keys it actually offers various areas for land based hunting.
- Marathon: This central Key is another great spot, with plenty of iguanas found in residential areas and along the shoreline. It’s most effective to hunt from a small boat such as a skiff or center console while patrolling the shoreline.
Tips for a Successful Hunt
- Timing: Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to hunt iguanas, as they are most active during these cooler parts of the day. Not to mention the fishing for invasive species such as Amozionan Cichlid & Peacock Bass is excellent as well.
- Gear: Bring a reliable air rifle or a .22 caliber rifle, as these are effective for hunting iguanas. Most iguana hunters prefer an air rifle because the use of a .22 can limit where you can hunt. If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge try a blow gun. For game retrieval you’re going to need a snare poll, long handled net or even a fishing pole with a treble hook.
- Safety: Always hunt with a partner and be aware of your surroundings. Know whats on the opposing side of your target area and respect private property. Check out the FWC website for the most up to date regulations
Hunt with Intercoastal Safaris
Intercoastal Safaris offers expert-guided iguana hunts across these top Florida locations. we do all we can to thoroughly vet all the guides we work with, in order to ensure a safe, successful, and enjoyable hunting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, we tailor our hunts to your skill level and preferences. In order to get the most out for your trip, consider making it a cast & blast. Many Invasive species of fish can be found in the same inland waterways where the iguanas are found. Needless to say the saltwater fishing in these south Florida counties is top notch.
Additional Iguana hunting information can be found on IntercoastalSafaris.com Various guide profiles and detailed excursion information can be found on our site as well. Both hunting and fishing trips can be booked directly through our website. If you would rather talk about it, so would we! Feel free to call 850-375-2223 and ask for Stephen Lee.