For hunters, September is the start of the best season of the year. From now until the middle of January is hunting season. For the non-hunters reading this please notice I said “hunting” season not “killing” season. Hunters enter the woods, leaving the urban life behind and try to blend into the woods like a shadow. When animals walk past us and are oblivious to our presence, it has been a productive hunt.
The exception to this almost mystical experience are feral hogs. Feral hog hunting is killing. From rooting up crops to eroding creek banks, feral hogs are responsible for an enormous amount of agricultural and environmental damage. In the reproduction department they give the rabbits a run for the money. The hogs don’t have very many predators, except for man. There are a few rules and regulation regarding hunting feral hogs but the term used the most is “any means or methods”. The standing rule in most deer camps is “shoot on sight”. That may sound harsh but take a look at what the USDA has to say about feral hogs.
Receiving a ticket during a hunting trip is not fun. The number one reason a hunter will receive a ticket is because he or she lacks proof of hunter education. Every hunter, born on or after Sept. 2, 1971, must successfully complete hunter education and carry proof while hunting. If you can’t locate your card, go online and print a duplicate at no charge. Over 1 million Texans have completed hunter education and the field is a MUCH safer place to be because of it. Speaking of safety, check out this short video of firearm safety tips every hunter should know. You can take hunter education online or in a classroom, in English or in Spanish. Everyone who hunts with you will feel (and be) safer if you do. Then keep the proof in your pocket and avoid that ticket. Published courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department |
Last year Texas dove season was good, but the forecast for the upcoming dove season is outstanding. In fact, dove populations are so healthy, the season has been extended to 90 days for the first time in 80 years. This makes it the longest dove season in the country – another reason why the hunting is best in Texas.
Opening day is September 1 in the North and Central Zones, September 23 in the South Zone and the daily bag limit is 15. Check your Outdoor Annual for more details. It’s also a good idea to refer to the dove identifier so you’ll know which birds to avoid. Be sure to have a Migratory Game Bird endorsement and HIP certification if you plan to hunt dove.
If you need a new spot to hunt, check out Walk-in Hunts, the Public Hunting Program that gives you access to over 1 million acres across the state, including areas for dove hunting. Wherever you go on opening day, good hunting!
Published courtesy of Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
In appreciation of hunters like you who help keep Texas an ace place to hunt, Texas Parks and Wildlife is offering an awesome new drawing that’s FREE to enter. They’ve also expanded the Lifetime License Drawings, giving you 3 chances to win instead of the traditional 2.
Win Your Dream Year Outdoors – 1 lucky license buyer will win the big shebang: 1 dove hunting trip, 5 fishing trips, $2,000 of Cabela’s gear and more. It’s FREE to enter, you just need a current license. Enter by Nov. 30. Click here to enter.
Lifetime License Drawings – 3 people will win a Lifetime Super Combo License and never EVER have to buy a state license again. Enter by Sept. 30 for the best chance to win. Next drawing is October 31. Only $5 per entry. Click here to read more.
Big Time Texas Hunts – Enter to win 9 different primo hunt packages on top-notch private ranches and wildlife management areas, like this Ultimate Mule Deer hunt. Enter by Oct. 15, just $9 per online entry. Click here to enter.
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