Texas is a hunter’s paradise, offering diverse landscapes and a long list of game species. Whether you’re after whitetail deer, feral hogs, or elusive predators like bobcats, timing and location play a big role in your success. Understanding seasonal patterns and the best hunting spots will help you make the most of your next guided hunting trip in Texas.
Best Hunting Trip Seasons in Texas
Texas offers year-round hunting opportunities, but knowing the best seasons for deer, hogs, turkey, and predators can make all the difference in your success.
Whitetail Deer
Deer hunting is a Texas tradition, drawing hunters from all over the country. The general season typically runs from early November through early January, but at Mellon Creek Outfitters, we offer extended opportunities due to our MLD tags. Our hunting season runs from mid-October through mid-January, allowing us to harvest deer with a rifle well before and after the traditional seasons. The rut in our area typically kicks off in late October and runs through early December, making this an excellent time to find bucks on the move. While we do not offer archery hunts, the cooler temperatures during our season make the deer more active during daylight hours, maximizing your chances of a successful hunt.
Aoudad (Barbary Sheep) in Texas
Aoudad, or Barbary sheep, are an exotic species introduced to Texas in the 1950s, thriving in the state’s rugged hill country and desert landscapes. Known for their muscular build, tan coats, and impressive curved horns, these animals are well-suited for Texas’ rocky, arid terrain. They are excellent climbers and primarily graze on grasses and shrubs. With populations growing, aoudad are a popular target for hunters, offering a challenging and unique hunt. Mellon Creek Outfitters offers guided aoudad hunting trips in areas spread across the western part of Texas, providing an exciting opportunity for hunters to pursue this elusive and tough animal in its natural habitat.
Texas Elk
Elk were reintroduced to Texas in the 1990s and now thrive in the state’s western and Hill Country regions. Known for their impressive size and massive antlers, Texas elk are a key feature of the state’s wildlife. These animals prefer forested areas and open meadows, where they graze on grasses and shrubs. During the rut, the eerie bugle calls of bulls echo across the landscape, attracting hunters eager to pursue them. Mellon Creek Outfitters offers guided elk hunts, giving hunters the chance to experience the thrill of chasing these majestic animals in the scenic Texas wilderness. Our expert hunting guides in Texas ensure an unforgettable hunting experience, with access to prime elk habitats across the state.
Feral Hogs
Feral hogs can be hunted year-round in Texas, and Mellon Creek Outfitters provides some of the best opportunities to target these aggressive and elusive animals. While they are primarily nocturnal, we recommend hunting during the cooler months from late fall through early spring when hogs are more likely to move during the day. Hunting over feeders as well as spot and stalk are two common methods practiced.
Turkey
South Texas is home to some of the best Rio Grande turkey hunting in the country. At Mellon Creek Outfitters, we exclusively offer spring turkey hunts, which run from March through late April. During this time, male turkeys are highly responsive to calls, making for an exciting and challenging hunt. The spring season is the prime opportunity to target these majestic birds in our region.
Predators and Varmints
Coyotes, bobcats, and several other predatory species are abundant throughout Texas and are a popular target for hunters. At Mellon Creek Outfitters, we aim to target these predators during the late fall and winter months when they are typically more responsive to calls. However, it’s also important to note that predator hunting during mating season and birthing season is highly effective. Whether you’re using electronic callers, decoys, or traditional methods, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to track these elusive creatures.
Best Locations for Hunting Trips in Texas
From dense woodlands to open plains, Texas offers diverse hunting grounds that cater to a wide range of game species and hunting styles.
South Texas/Costal Bend
Located in the South Texas/Coastal Bend/Plains region, Mellon Creek Outfitters offers some of the best hunting opportunities in the state. The rich, nutrient-dense soil and sprawling ranch lands provide the perfect habitat for whitetail deer, which are abundant on our property. We also offer hunts for feral hogs, Nilgai, bobcats, coyotes, ducks, and turkeys. The variety of game species ensures a dynamic and rewarding hunting experience year-round.
West Texas
Mellon Creek Outfitters West Texas properties are perfect for those seeking challenging hunts in rugged terrain. We specialize in Aoudad and elk hunting in this region, providing unique opportunities for hunters who are up for the challenge of mountain terrain and diverse wildlife.
Planning Your Texas Guided Hunting Trip
Before heading out, it’s important to check hunting regulations for the specific area you’re targeting. Texas Parks and Wildlife sets hunting seasons, bag limits, and other rules to ensure healthy wildlife populations. If you’re hunting on private land, which makes up most of Texas, securing permission from the landowner or booking with a reputable outfitter like Mellon Creek Outfitters is essential.
Ready to book your next Texas hunting adventure? At Mellon Creek Outfitters, we have the experience, land, and game to make it happen through our guided hunting trips. Call us at (361) 484-2398 today!
