Pythons are not native to the state of Florida. They are an invasive species whose presence in the Sunshine State is entirely attributed to discarded pets. The population in the Everglades region has gotten so out of control that there are now annual state-sanctioned python hunts.
The event has undergone changes in duration and title over the years, but since 2020, it has been known as the Florida Python Challenge, with a ten-day competition.
Current estimates of the Burmese Python population in FL are in the tens of thousands. These hunts have yielded approximately 200 captures annually since 2021, with 20 total pythons being the most captured by an individual over the past two years.
The hunters are a mix of professionals and amateurs, and the grand prize for the top finisher is set at $10,000 for 2025. The pythons must be disposed of humanely with a strike to the brain that renders them unconscious immediately.
The use of traps, firearms, and explosives is prohibited in the competition.
Online entertainment sportsbooks are now taking action on the Florida Python Challenge, with props for different aspects of the contest.
Length of the longest python caught
- Over 16.5 Longest Python Feet -120
- Under 16.5 Longest Python Feet -120
Totals have been set for the longest python caught, the total number of pythons the winner will catch, and the total overall pythons caught by all contestants. The moneyline odds are set at -120 for every option on the board, so players will have to risk a little more than they can earn, no matter where they lay their action.
How many pythons will the winner catch?
- Over 18.5 Pythons By Winner -120
- Under 18.5 Pythons By Winner -120
In 2024, Ronald Kiger caught the most pythons with 20 overall. This year’s over/under is set at 18.5, but the winner has bagged 20 or more snakes for the past four years in a row.
Total number of pythons caught at the FPC
- Over 192.5 Total Pythons Caught -120
- Under 192.5 Total Pythons Caught -120
The above entertainment prop bet suggests that the total number of pythons caught this year will be in the range of 192 or 193. Once again, this is a number that has been surpassed every year since 2021, making the over an attractive option.
This year’s event begins one minute after midnight on July 11th and ends promptly at 5 p.m. on July 20th. Florida Python Challenge odds should remain online until just before the competition begins.
Sources: BetOnline Sportsbook (review) | Official Website Of The Florida Python Challenge
