The Forgotten Coast — the stretch of Gulf Coast from Apalachicola through Carrabelle and down to St. George Island — is one of Florida's most underrated waterfowl hunting destinations. The combination of Apalachicola Bay, the Apalachicola River delta, extensive coastal marshes and proximity to the Gulf migration corridor makes this area a legitimate duck hunting destination for those willing to put in the work.
This isn't a guide to a specific lease or a secret honey hole. It's a practical overview of what to expect, what species you'll encounter, where public access exists, and how to prepare for a hunt on the Forgotten Coast.
Waterfowl Species on the Forgotten Coast
The Apalachicola Bay area sits along the Atlantic Flyway and receives a variety of migrating ducks and geese throughout the season. Common species include:
- Teal — Blue-winged and green-winged teal are the first to arrive in early fall. The early teal season typically opens in September and offers some of the best action of the year.
- Mottled Duck — Florida's resident duck. Mottled ducks are present year-round in the coastal marshes and bay shallows.
- Ringneck Duck — One of the most common diving ducks in the area during the regular season.
- Lesser Scaup — Common in the bay and open water during the regular season.
- Bufflehead — Small, fast divers that work the open bay and coastal ponds.
- Hooded Merganser — Common in the river system and tidal creeks.
- Gadwall, Wigeon & Pintail — Puddle ducks that use the marshes and flooded areas during migration.
Duck Season Dates in Florida
Florida duck seasons are set annually by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Dates vary by zone — the Apalachicola area falls within the North Zone. Always verify current season dates at myfwc.com before hunting.
The early teal season typically runs for about two weeks in September. The regular duck season in the North Zone typically runs from late November through late January, with a split. Snow goose conservation order may extend opportunities into spring.
Public Land Access Near Apalachicola
Apalachicola National Forest — The largest national forest in Florida, located just north of Apalachicola. The forest contains numerous ponds, sloughs and wetlands that hold ducks during the season. Access is generally open to hunting with a valid license and federal duck stamp.
Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area (WEA) — Managed by the Florida Forest Service, this area along the Apalachicola River provides access to river swamps, oxbows and bottomland hardwoods that hold ducks and other waterfowl.
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge — Located east of Apalachicola near St. Marks, this refuge offers managed waterfowl hunting on designated impoundments. Hunting is by permit in some areas. Check the refuge website for current regulations and permit requirements.
Tate's Hell State Forest — Located between Apalachicola and Carrabelle, Tate's Hell contains extensive wetlands and is open to hunting with appropriate licenses.
What You'll Need
Waterfowl hunting in Florida requires a Florida hunting license, a Florida waterfowl permit, and a federal duck stamp. Non-toxic shot is required for all waterfowl hunting. Steel shot is the most common choice; bismuth and tungsten are options for tighter chokes.
For hunting the coastal marshes and bay, a shallow-draft boat or kayak is essential. Waders are useful for marsh hunting. A good retriever is a significant advantage — the Forgotten Coast is retriever country, and a trained dog makes a real difference.
Gear Up at Crum & Co. Outdoors
Crum & Co. Outdoors carries ammunition, hunting accessories, scent control products, knives and outdoor gear for hunters on the Forgotten Coast. We're located at 76 Market Street, Unit B in downtown Apalachicola — open Tuesday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm. We also carry Katie's Bumpers training dummies and dog training supplies for retriever owners.
This guide is provided for informational purposes. Always verify current hunting regulations, season dates and license requirements with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (myfwc.com) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before hunting. Public land access and regulations are subject to change.