Guana River - Recreation

In support of the resource management goals and objectives for the area and to provide a quality experience for all area users, hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, biking, horseback riding and paddling are allowed.  A popular area for hunting, the editors of Game and Fish magazine have named Guana River as one of the five top areas to hunt waterfowl in North Florida.

Hunting

Guana River Wildlife Management Area is best known for duck hunting.  During the 2001-2002 season, hunters bagged 2000 ducks. The hog, squirrel, and deer populations are also good.

Fishing

Fishing is excellent at times for redfish, seatrout, croaker, black drum and spot. You can fish at the dam and along the banks of the impoundment and the ponds. The impoundment is also a popular spot for crabbing. Boat ramps are located at Guana Dam and off A1A at Six Mile Landing. Reference the map of Guana River WMA to locate boat ramp(s).  For more information go to Recreational Hunting and Fishing Licenses and Permits, Freshwater Fishing Regulations and Saltwater Fishing Regulations.

Wildlife Viewing

During April and October, especially with a west wind or after a cold front, this is the best place in northeast Florida to see peregrine falcons. Nearly 3000-4000 migratory ducks, American coots, common moorhens, common gallinules, and pied-billed grebes winter at Lake Ponte Vedra. This area is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. You may also request a copy or download or print the Guana River Bird List . Visit the  Wildlife page for more information about the area's wildlife.

Hiking

Miles of hiking trails are located throughout the area, some lead to observation platforms with magnificent marsh views. See map of Guana River WMA for trail locations.

Biking

Permitted on most named and numbered roads, established trails, and fire lines.

Horseback Riding

Permitted on most named and numbered roads, established trails and firelanes. Horses are prohibited during archery, muzzleloading gun, general gun, small game and spring turkey  seasons.  Children under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet when riding on public lands.  For more detailed information go to Nicole's Law .  All horseback riders must have proof of current negative Coggins Test results for their horses when on state lands.

Paddling

On Lake Ponte Vedra and the Guana River. Reference the map of Guana River WMA to locate boat ramps).