Let The Quota Hunt Game Begin

An earlier-than-normal deadline for alligator quota hunts highlights the beginning of the 2019-2020 hunting season for those who play the quota-hunt lottery game. WRD began accepting applications for all their quota hunts this morning, and a July 15 deadline for alligator quota hunts means it’s time to begin making plans.

“Because quota hunts allow a predetermined number of hunters on a particular area, they most certainly provide exceptional hunting opportunities,” says John Bowers, Chief of the Game Management Section of WRD.  “So, if you are hoping to get to hunt the area of your choice, don’t let the deadlines get past you without applying.”

Randy Blaisdell, of Sugar Hill, was drawn for a quota hunt on the Fort Perry Tract of CFL WMA. He killed this nice 8-pointer.

For those who want to tangle with a big lizard this fall, review the Lottery Odds based on last year’s applicants. Zone 4 (around Valdosta) was the easiest Zone to be selected for last year, with 75% of applicants being selected using just two priority points.

The most popular area for Georgia gator hunters is Zone 1, which is a swath of counties in southwest Georgia but excluding Lake Eufaula. Only 43% of applicants were drawn for a Zone 1 permit when using five priority points. The second most popular zone was Zone 01A, which is Lake Eufaula. Only 58% of applicants were drawn when using five priority points.

Check out Georgia’s Gator Zone Map as you begin to make plans.

Dove quota-hunts deadlines are Aug. 15, deer deadlines will be Sept. 15, and the deadline for a host of small-game quota-hunt opportunities will be Oct. 15. All WMA quota-hunt deadline dates are posted on the DNR website.

Applying for a Quota Hunt is simple. Visit www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com and select “Quota Hunts” and follow the steps to complete your application. Make sure that your email is current and correct in order to receive quota updates, confirmations or any notices about quota hunts.