iSportsman Staff

Fort Stewart began their alligator season August 19th, and for the curious and able, hunting these massive prehistoric creatures is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If you’re planning an alligator hunting trip, you have probably already done your research on the best practices and regulations in your destined area. But before setting out, make sure you have the right gear and tools to increase your chances of success. This brief guide will direct you to everything you’ll need for an unforgettable alligator hunting experience. 

Safety Gear and Equipment 

Gator hunting can be very risky if proper safety measures are not taken. It is essential that you wear protective gear and carry certain equipment to stay safe while out on the hunt. Make sure to bring a life jacket, waders, strongly built gloves, goggles, and a first aid kit in case of emergency. Harpoons or other specialized tools may be necessary depending on the alligators’ size as well as local regulations. 

Baited bank hooks, treble hooks, harpoons, crossbows, baited dowels, and centerfire rifles are all included in Outdoor Life’s round-up of necessary gear. Be sure to check with the regulations where you hunt to learn the allowed methods of harvest. 

For Florida residents, the Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission has an easy outfitter and guide database for those who don’t want to try their hunt alone. Either way, its good to know your options since hunting alligator is no different than any other hunt in that it could be potentially dangerous if not knowledgeable and prepared. 

Tricks of the Trade

Despite preparing for an alligator hunt the same way you prepare for any other game animal, alligators are not technically classified as game animals themselves, meaning some tips and tricks are unexpected. For instance, in Florida at least, electronic game calls are perfectly legal as well as extremely effective. 

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Other pro tips include things such as how to gauge the length of an alligator in feet by estimating the distance in inches from the bump on its snout to its eye. Despite not being a game animal, it’s important to note that like game animals, size limitations are important to keep in mind in legal alligator hunts. 

Alligator Hunting Methods and Strategies 

No matter what gear or expertise you have, nothing is going to help a hunt more than dedicating the time and energy to scouting out where the best hunting opportunities are. Scouting is allowed in most alligator hunting areas at any time, if your hunting equipment is disassembled and stowed away or left at home. Like deer, or any other game animal, this effort will help you figure out when game is active in the areas you are permitted to hunt. 

As far as where to hunt gators, Outdoor Life rounded up the best states to hunt them, which include Louisiana, Florida, Texas, South Carolina, Georgia, Arkansas and Alabama. You can also visit Fort Stewart’s iSportsman portal to learn more about their base specific hunts. 

Read more about hunting alligators on iSportsmanUSA.