For 34 years, Manatee County’s Hunt Program at Duette Preserve has brought hunters together through a tradition focused on outdoor recreation, responsible wildlife management and community connection.
The program offers several hunting opportunities, including big game, turkey, small game and charity hog hunts. It also features a free youth hunt, which includes a raffle and lunch for participating young hunters.
Education and safety are also key parts of the program. Participants attend an in-person orientation covering hunting rules, safety procedures and preserve guidelines. The orientation also gives hunters an opportunity to meet park rangers, ask questions and learn about practices designed to protect both participants and Duette Preserve.
The program has remained popular over the years, selling out for the past decade. County officials say the continued demand reflects the strong connection many area hunters have with Duette Preserve and the tradition of hunting in Manatee County.
A change is planned for next year as Manatee County moves to online registration for the Hunt Program. County residents will receive a 24-hour priority registration period before remaining hunting opportunities are opened to the general public.
Duette Preserve is Manatee County’s largest preserve and provides habitat for a wide variety of native Florida wildlife while supporting conservation, recreation and environmental stewardship.
Additional information about hunting opportunities, requirements and registration is available through Manatee County’s Duette Preserve Hunt Program webpage.
