It’s Hunting Season: Your Guide to Texas Hunting Land
The Land Up Learning Series
The “holiday season” can take a back seat: it’s hunting season here in Texas.
Deer, bird, and even helicopter hog hunting (you’re in the helicopter, not the hog) - whether you’re a seasoned pro or just stepped into Cabela’s for the first time, Texas has something for every hunter’s taste. Though you might have all the gear and the game plan, do you know the very first step to a successful hunt?
That’s right: having somewhere to go! Many hunters have their go-to private and public spaces for the season. But from terrain to size to local rules, what makes a property… well, huntable? If you don’t want your camo pants collecting dust this season, look no further - here is your complete guide to hunting land in Texas.
First Thing’s First: When is Hunting Season in Texas?
Archery and Rifle Season
Hunting seasons in Texas can vary depending on the game species and hunting method you are interested in. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) sets specific dates for each hunting season by county or region, and these dates can change from year to year.
Before we dive into the seasons by animal, it’s important to know that the season is typically divided into two main categories:
Archery season: typically starting in early October, archery season allows hunters to use bows and crossbows.
Rifle season: typically starting in early November and ending in January - make sure to wear orange!
General Seasons by Game for 2023-2024
Now that you know what to use and when, we can dive into the game itself! Because there are so many different species across Texas, there are also many different hunting season dates. We’ve included some of the most common game below, but additional info on animals, regulations, permits, and more can be found on the TPWD’s website.
White-tail deer (252 of 254 counties): Sept. 30 - Nov. 3, 2023
Squirrel (all counties): Sept. 1, 2023 - Aug. 31, 2024
Quail (all counties): Oct. 28, 2023 - Feb. 25, 2024
Wild turkey (177 of 254 counties): Sept. 30 - Nov. 3, 2023
Dove (all counties): Sept. 1 - Oct. 29, 2023 and Dec. 15, 2023 - Jan. 14, 2024
Duck (all counties): Nov. 3, 2023 - Jan. 28, 2024 (High Plains Mallard Management Unit), Nov. 11 - 26, 2023 and Dec. 2, 2023 - Jan. 28, 2024 (North Zone), Nov. 4 - 26, 2023 and Dec. 9, 2023 - Jan. 28, 2024 (South Zone)
Rabbits and Hares (all counties): year-round on private property
Alligator (all counties): Sept. 10 - 30, 2023
His favorite shop is BUCK-ee’s.
Public vs. Private Hunting Land in Texas
Now the answer to the question, “where can I hunt in Texas?” For residents and visitors alike, there are two main options when it comes to hunting land in Texas: public or private.
Public Hunting Land
Texas Parks and Wildlife offers nearly one million acres of Texas land for public hunting use. Individuals can apply for their Annual Public Hunting Permit for year-round-hunting, gaining access to lands owned by TPWD or leased from government agencies, forest industries, and participating private landowners.
Public land allows individuals to hunt anywhere across the Lone Star State - without the need to own land themselves - and hunt a variety of species. To learn about this opportunity and other programs, visit their website.
Private Hunting Land
If you’re wanting a successful hunting season, private land may be the way to go. Reports show that in the 2021-2022 deer seasons across the U.S., more than 5 million deer were tagged on private property, compared to only 700,000 on public lands.
There are two options when it comes to hunting on private land: getting permission from the landowner (sometimes including a payment or lease to use the property), or owning the land yourself. If buying hunting land in Texas has sparked your interest, keep on reading.
Hunting gives Fido and Rover a chance to show off their pointing skills, other than when they stare at that spooky empty corner in your house.
What to Look For in Hunting Land
Both private and public land have their pros and cons. But whether hunting is your pass time or passion, investing in Texas real estate can be a smart choice - allowing you plenty of freedom, privacy, and flexibility to create your dream hunting property. However, not just any parcel can be used recreationally. And on top of that, it’s important to look for certain criteria to make sure your property is the best hunting spot possible.
How Many Acres Do I Need to Hunt on My Land in Texas?
While this isn’t the exact answer, if you’re looking for hunting land for sale in Texas, a good rule of thumb is that the property should be a minimum of 10 acres. But let’s dive in deeper to this question and answer.
By State law, there is no minimum acreage requirement to hunt. However, the law does give local counties and municipalities the right to set certain criteria - meaning, minimum acreage requirements are set by the local government in which your property is located.
Many counties in Texas have established a 10 acre minimum size for hunting or discharging firearms on the land. To know for sure, call your local government agency to confirm.
Does My Land Have to be Zoned for Hunting?
Recreational land is typically undeveloped land for sale that can be used for various activities such as hunting, getaways, fishing, ATVing, and more. Ultimately, it can be used however you want. In Texas, land doesn't have to be specifically zoned for hunting like it might be zoned for residential, commercial, or agricultural use.
However, there may be local regulations and restrictions on hunting, which can vary depending on the county or municipality in which your land is located. You should check with the local government or county authorities to understand any hunting regulations or restrictions that may apply. Additionally, you should also be aware of state regulations, such as hunting seasons, bag limits, and licensing requirements. Your Realtor can help you determine if a potential property or area will be the right fit.
Do I Need a Permit to Build a Deer Blind (or Anything Else)?
If you build it, will they come? (The government, that is.)
In Texas, the regulations regarding the construction of deer blinds or hunting stands on private property generally do not require a specific permit from the state or Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
However, if you plan to create your own hunting retreat - with cabins, utilities, and driveways - you may need local government approval and permitting in order to make significant improvements to your property. Be sure to check with your county to ensure you have the necessary approval, documentation, and compliance.
Other Considerations When Choosing Hunting Land
Other than acreage, zoning, and local rules, it’s important to note that it is illegal to shoot towards a residence, across a public roadway, or across property lines. So, when looking for hunting land for sale in Texas, be sure to check the property’s surroundings.
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10 Top Qualities to Look For in Hunting Land
Even if your new property is 10+ acres and ready for recreational use, that won’t matter if it’s completely covered in lava (just kidding, kind of). There’s a lot of land for sale in Texas that may look perfect on paper - but what makes a property fit for hunting?
Size: beyond a minimum 10 acres, how much land do you want? More space = more opportunities and areas for wildlife.
Game species: what do you want to hunt? Different regions may have varying populations of deer, turkey, hogs, and other animals.
Terrain and habitat: does the property have lots of trees, rolling plains, or a river? Different ecosystems = different types of game available.
Safety: are there good spots for blinds, clear shooting lines, or maintained trails? Ensure you and fellow hunters can stay safe.
Amenities: do you have access to roads, accommodations, or anything nearby that would make your excursions easier or better?
Budget: does the property match your current and long term financial goals? Investing in Texas real estate requires money and maintenance.
Water sources: are there ponds, creeks, or rivers to attract game? Or, if you plan to build, will you have access to water and utilites?
Local community and services: how far is the nearest gas station, store, emergency services, or neighborhood?
Environmental considerations: are there any nearby industrial activities, agricultural practices, etc. that could affect local wildlife?
Future developments: is the surrounding area quickly growing? Rapid developments can impact wildlife populations.
Finding Hunting Land For Sale in Texas
You have the gear, you have the guide, and all you need now is the land. That’s where we come in.
From years of selling land in Central Texas, we know the area like no one else. Our Realtors are locals themselves and can help you find the perfect property - before, during, and even after hunting season. If you’re looking for Central Texas land, you should be looking to Land Up Texas. Call us today to get started!