What are Regulations for High Fence Hunting in Texas?

Eligibility and Leasing

To participate in high fence hunting in Texas, hunters must hunt on a registered high fence ranch or lease that is at least 10 acres in size. The TPWD requires all high fence hunting leases to be registered and inspected annually, and ranches must meet specific habitat and wildlife management requirements. For example, a high fence ranch must have a minimum of 5 acres of habitat per 10 acres of leasehold, and a minimum of 2 acres of habitat per 10 acres of leasehold must be planted with native vegetation within 2 years of the initial inspection.

Wildlife Management and Harvest Regulations

Ranches participating in high fence hunting must adhere to strict wildlife management and harvest regulations to ensure sustainability and fair chase principles. For example, all harvested deer must be reported and recorded, and hunters are limited to a maximum of 4 deer per hunter per year, with a total of 12 antlered deer allowed per 10 acres. Additionally, all high fence ranches must have a minimum of 25% of their deer herd comprised of bucks, and no deer may be harvested that are less than 16 inches inside the spread of their antlers. Furthermore, high fence ranches must also follow specific guidelines for predator control, baiting, and hunting methods to ensure a fair and sustainable hunting experience.

Hunting Seasons and Permits

In Texas, high fence hunting seasons and permits are regulated by the TPWD, and hunters must adhere to specific guidelines and regulations. For example, the whitetail deer hunting season typically runs from mid-October to mid-January, with specific dates varying depending on the region and season. Hunters must also obtain a TPWD hunting license and any necessary permits, such as a high fence permit, which is required for all high fence hunting in Texas.