Texas land has long been revered for the wide variety of hunting opportunities it offers. Over 95% of Texas land is privately owned or managed which provides hunters with very few public hunting opportunities. The lack of public hunting land has prompted Texas hunters to buy their own land to hunt from.
Whether they are planning to hunt with a bow or firearm, there are several things every hunter should keep in mind when hunting on their own property. Here is some information regarding Texas hunting requirements, why they are necessary, and several tips to follow when hunting on your own land.
Texas Hunting Requirements
Hunting on Texas land can be a complicated process that is littered with several misconceptions. Most of the confusion revolves around how many acres are needed in order to fire a weapon, how to receive permission to hunt on private land, and exactly when hunters need to have a Texas hunting license.
1. How Many Acres?
Any hunter looking to hunt with a bow or firearm will want to confirm that the plot of land they are hunting on is at least 10 acres. Texas state laws require 10 acres, and any hunter found violating this law can receive multiple fines, or worse, upon repeat offenses.
2. Permission from a Land Owner
Obtaining hunting permission from a Texas landowner is quite simple. All that is required is verbal permission, but Texas legislation recommends that landowners and hunters complete a Texas hunting lease certificate.
3. Texas Hunting License
All Texas hunters that are hunting on private or public land are required to purchase a Texas hunting license. Hunting nuisance animals such as feral hogs and coyotes does not require a license.
Why Hunting Requirements Are Necessary
Most of the hunting requirements in Texas are quite lenient, though some hunters still wonder why that is the case. Texas requires that hunters only discharge their weapons on plots of land that are 10 or more acres to ensure the safety of others. This includes neighboring landowners, outdoor enthusiasts, and other hunters.
Permission to hunt on private land is required from a landowner for the obvious reasons, and also to ensure that hunters are familiar with the land’s size and boundaries.
The hunting license system in Texas allows wildlife agencies to keep track of the number of active hunters and the various game species. The license system also ensures the proper use of bows and firearms.
Tips to Follow When Hunting on Your Own Land
When hunting your own land, it’s important to keep the land boundaries in mind as well as anyone else that may be hunting on your land, and the effect on the wildlife population.
Hunters in Texas should ALWAYS follow these tips
- Never discharge a firearm near a property boundary or aim towards another property.
- Create and fill out a hunting lease for every hunter that you allow to access your land.
- Monitor the game populations on your property regularly to see if hunting is feasible.
- Always maintain a valid hunting license and carry it with you into the field.
Good Luck on Your Next Hunt!
Hunting on private land is a time-honored Texas tradition. Following the rules and regulations established by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department will ensure that it is a tradition that continues to grow and flourish. When venturing out for your next hunt, remember to scope out the properties boundaries, obtain permission and a signed hunting lease, and make sure to purchase a Texas hunting license. Good luck and happy hunting.