jcomar1 said:
Jduckhntr, I recently moved to here to Orlando from Louisiana, and I haven't had a chance to scout any duck hunting areas yet.
Can you tell me if there are areas in the Merritt Island WMA were I can paddle in with my pirogue (ie I don't have a motor boat) and get to some nice duck hunting areas?
I'm sure that you have figured it out by now, but several areas are designed for walk/paddle-in hunting. In fact some are closed to engines. There are several zones in MINWR, and their closures and permit requirements vary yearly. Permits are $15 daily, but are only required for some areas. You have to call in october to reserve them, so don't delay. . The refuge is only open to hunting Sat, Sun, Wed. Area 1 would probably be the best bet for paddling in. You have to cross a deep canal about 10yds across and then it is very shallow (walkable). For more info, check out
http://www.fws.gov/merrittisland/
Final note, get there early, because of the limited dates, this place fills up early. The hardcore guys are in the best blinds hours before first light just to reserve them.