by Catherine Barbaro

Created on: December 14, 2009   Last Updated: September 14, 2010

Historically, Texas whitetail deer hunting fed families when the economy could not. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) regulates game and fishery in the state and publishes a free booklet covering information pertinent to hunting in Texas. It is available at all locations that sell hunting licenses. 

Although the organization that is now TPWD began in the late 19th century, individual counties were reluctant to participate.  It was not until 1963 that the Texas State Legislature granted statewide authority over wildlife in the passage of the Wildlife Conservation Act.  

The primary variation in hunting different regions of the state is the season set forth by the TPWD. The season opens earlier in some counties and goes longer in others. There are several hunting tips that universally apply throughout the state. 

The first principle that serves a hunter well is observation. Whether hunting a lease, family land, or a package hunt, seek opportunities well before whitetails are in hard-antler to watch them. This will enable the hunter to know what the land holds, since whitetail deer have a browsing range of a square mile or less. Observing a few weeks apart will enhance awareness of size, habits, and age. 

Next is the principle of hunting position. Hunting high above the deer’s nose level thwarts their scent ability to detect man. Positioning yourself in approach is important also. Where the wind blows is crucial. If a north wind is blowing, then a southern approach will not alert the entire hunting range of the hunter’s presence.

Consider water sources and vegetation. Deer will always have paths to water and they have defined preferential browse. Looking at the brush and forbs (weeds) ahead of time will allow any hunter the ability to observe worn patterns on trees where deer have rubbed velvet away from their developing antlers. 

Another principle to utilize is the fact that Texas doesn’t limit baiting—using attractants like corn, apples, oats, maize or salt licks. Whereas some states, Colorado, for instance, forbid baiting, Texas allows it.

The final principle is the most important.  It is the rut—the time when does enter their estrus cycles and their scent overwhelms the buck and causes him to ignore all caution. The rut is dependent on the temperature, so north Texas will see the rut in October, whereas south Texas may not experience the rut until December. This is the hardest principle to act upon: Don’t waste your tags too early in the season. Exercise self-control and be patient. 

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