I'm a student here in tallahassee going to Florida State University, about to finish up my degree. Ive done the public land hunting for years now, and although I have had some luck, i would like to try leasing property since I will have more money. Here is the kicker....I would like it to be in Florida. Crazy, I know. I just enjoy hunting florida, and im not looking for monster bucks...just legal came with the chance of an occasionaly big boy. I know i can probably find cheaper property to lease, and larger bucks in GA or AL, but there is just somthing about FL and i really enjoy my time in these swampy woods.
I have looked on other forums, woods n water, local papers, etc. I just never had any luck. Ive tried calling landowners who list there property for sale, but they areant interested in leasing. You dont see many "property for lease" ads, and i assume most property that is leased is word of mouth.
My father is about to retire, and my best friend has been looking with me for 2 years now. We want to lease out a couple hundred acres for us to hunt...money isnt a problem as much as location, and property. We are willing to pay premium price for access to a small piece of property, as long as it has a huntable game population. If leasing a small tract is too difficult or hard to find, i have other family and friends that could help reduce the bill for a larger tract.
I know average prices paid per acre in different regions of the south, including florida. I know how much insurance will cost, and that landowners are concerned about liability. I know timber companies lease out property, but those in Florida ive had no luck. I know finding this in florida is difficult, but i dont want to think impossible. I have an overall good understanding of the leasing process... however I DONT know where to find landowners to lease from.
What is the best way to get into contact with landowners...how does one get started in leasing property?
I thought about going to the clerk of courts and searching county records for landowners in certain counties and cold calling about leasing... but i dont want to be rude (or know if i can even do that).
Thought about posting fliers (with pics, copy of hunter safety card, references etc) at the local feed and seed shops, hunting stores, post office, mom and pop restaurants -anywhere landowners are likely to go.
I hate to sound like im whining, and im sure there are plenty of other people in my same position...it just can be so darn frustrating.
ANY advice will be considered, in case you cant tell im past desperation lol. Thanks!
Adam G. Young
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