Frequently Asked Questions

Silver Lake Preserve FAQ

What time should I arrive for my hunt?

Morning hunters should arrive and register at the office at 7:00 a.m. Afternoon hunters should arrive at 2:30 p.m. Please be on time.

All quail hunts include a professional guide, expertly trained bird dogs, transportation on the grounds, and non-alcoholic drinks and refreshments. 

Visit our Quail Hunt page for more details.

For quail, we recommend 7½ to 8 shot. For pheasant and tower shoots, we recommend 6 shot. For wobble deck, use a standard target load.

A Florida hunting license and Florida turkey permit are required for turkey hunts. A Florida trapper’s agent license is required for alligator hunts. Quail hunts and tower shoots do not require a license.

We encourage parents to bring their children. Gun safety is our top priority, and children will be evaluated before hunting. We recommend completing a hunter safety course beforehand. Our experienced guides will make the hunt an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Read more about our safety practices and view our video on our safety page.

Silver Lake Preserve Alligator Hunt

Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring your own dogs and guide them alongside our staff. Just let us know when you book. We’ll always have our dogs available as well. Learn more about our best-in-class hunting dogs on our Guide Dogs page.

Yes. Shotguns are available for rent at $25 per hunter per hunt.

Yes. We carry 12, 16, 20, 28, and .410 gauge shells.

This is a personal preference. We always recommend that you be comfortable and safe when hunting.

Hunter Orange is required while quail hunting. We’ll provide a complimentary loaner orange vest. Safety is always first—the more orange, the better. For more information, view our safety page.

Your Experience

When you visit Silver Lake Preserve, you’re hunting the same land the Lykes family has hunted for generations. Every detail—from our knowledgeable guides to the coveys in the field—reflects our commitment to giving you an experience you won’t forget.

This is Old Florida, preserved and shared with care.