Kerrville Daily Times - Hunting Guide 2019

The Kerrville

Daily Times

IN THE

2019 Hunting Guide 1

Forget the gun, bring the spear

The greatest thing at Gibson’s is the BOAR SPEAR!

CROSSHAIRS 2019 Hunting Guide Stories of Hill Country Deer Hunting Local bookstore has three remarkable titles by Texas authors

CAMO CROCS MATTER Our gear guide is fun!

The real fun is finding the deals for your next trip

Stock up for the

HUNT

OCTOBER 2019

2 In the Crosshairs

1/2 Gold Cup Process 3513

1/2 Simpson Land & Ranch Process 5788

2019 Hunting Guide 3 The Kerrville

Daily Times Season, bag and possession in Kerr County Deer Season: Nov. 2, 2019–Jan. 5, 2020 Archery only: Sept. 28–Nov. 1, 2019 Early youth-only season: Oct. 26– 27, 2017 Late youth-only season: Jan. 6–19, 2018 Late antlerless and spike: Jan. 6–19, 2018 Bag limit: five deer, no more than two bucks, all seasons combined

We challenged Gibson’s on deals, and they delivered Page 18

Dove Season: Sept. 1–Nov. 3, 2019 and Dec. 20, 2019–Jan. 14, 2020 Bag limit: 15 white-winged,

Table of Contents

morning and white-tipped doves in the aggregate, to include no more than two white-tipped Possession limit: Three times the daily bag limit

Turkey Fall Season: Nov. 2, 2019–Jan. 5, 2020 Archery Only: Sept. 28-Nov. 1, 2019 Youth Only: Oct. 26-27, 2019 Bag composition: Either sex Bag limit: The annual bag limit for turkey in the aggregate for all counties is 4, and no more than one of which may be an Eastern turkey

4 Licenses 5 Chronice Wasting Disease 6 Where to buy gear 8 Hunting around the Hill Country 10 Track it, Test your knowledge, by taking this footprint quiz

11 13

18 22

Getting outfitted at Gibson’s A listing of youth hunts scheduled around the Texas Hill Country Gear guide for 2019-2020. Cool stuff.

Wild Game Recipes

Publisher Carlina Villalpando Managing Editor Louis Amestoy Assistant Managing Editor Jeanette Eastwood Nash Photographers Tom Holden William Houghton Composing Manager Dean Heep Advertising Director John Doran Advertising Brandon Baldwin Valerie Tucker Luly Bliss

4 In the Crosshairs

Licenses and stamps These locations include sporting goods stores, gun shops, department stores, discount stores, bait and tackle shops, grocery stores and many other types of stores. Some commercial hunting and fishing licenses are available only at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s headquarters in Austin and Law Enforcement Offices. For added convenience, most recreational licenses may be purchased by phone or on the Internet with a credit card. A $5 administrative fee will be charged for those sales. Many licenses may be purchased for immediate use except where tagging is required (i.e., deer and turkey).

For general license questions, contact the TPWD headquarters in Austin.

Combo license packages The “combo” packages include a resident hunting license, a resident fishing license and either the saltwater stamp endorsement (with a red drum tag), freshwater stamp endorsement or both, depending on the specific package purchased.

• Resident combination hunting and freshwater fishing (Type 503): $50 • Resident combination hunting and saltwater fishing (Type 504): $55 • Combination hunting and all-water fishing

(Type 505): $60 • Senior resident combination hunting and freshwater fishing (Type 506): $16 (for ages 65 and older) • Senior resident combination hunting and saltwater fishing (Type 507): $21 • Senior resident combination hunting and all-water fishing (Typer 508): $26 Residents who purchase “combo” packages specific to either salt or freshwater fishing may upgrade to the all-water package through the purchase of the appropriate stamp endorsement (i.e., the stamp endorsement not included in the initial license package purchased).

Super combo hunting and all-water fishing package For residents who hunt and fish fresh water and/ or salt water, the “super combo” includes a resident hunting license, a resident fishing license and five state stamp endorsements (archery, freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing with a red drum tag, upland game bird and migratory game bird) at a discounted price.

For residents who hunt and fish freshwater and/or saltwater, the “super combo” package can save purchasers up to $18.

• “Super combo” license

package (Type 111): $68 • Senior “super combo” license package (Type 117): $32 (for ages 65 and older) • Disabled veteran “super combo” hunting and allwater fishing package (Type 502): Free Must have a serviceconnected disability, as defined by the Veterans Administration, consisting of the loss of the use of a foot or leg, or a disability rating of 60 percent or more and who is receiving compensation from the U.S. for the disability. Official proof of disability must be shown when applying for this license and must state the rate of disability. Includes all five stamp endorsements (archery, freshwater fishing, migratory game bird, saltwater fishing with a red drum tag and upland game bird). The federal waterfowl stamp is not included.

Hill Country license agents Kerrville

Gibson’s Discount Center: 111 W. Main St., 257-3511 H-E-B No. 089: 300 Main St., 896-3600 H-E-B No. 655: 313 Sidney Baker St. , 896-8030 Hill Country Arms Inc.:1013 Sidney Baker St.,

game bird). The federal duck stamp is not included.

Proof of residency for this license is: military

792-7722 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: 309 Sidney Baker St. South, 257-7611

Ingram

Kerrville Ranch and Pet Center: 1900 Junction Highway, 895-5800

Lowe’s Supermarket No. 159: 619 Front St., 830995-2380

Wal-Mart No. 508: 1216 Junction Highway, 8957900

Lindley’s Taxidermy & Deer Processing: 23868 U.S. Highway 290 W, 830864-5005

service record(s) indicating that the person’s home of record is in Texas or that the person’s duty station

Texas Hunt Lodge: 120 Lakehouse Trail W, 830367-7611

Comfort

Harper

for the six months immediately prior to the time of application is in Texas.

STRANDED?

STRANDED? Don’t Know Where T “We’re Here To Help” STRANDED? Don’t Know Where To Go? STRANDED? 1/8 Since 1978 -Help” We’re Here Take Care Of Yo Don’t Know ToTo Go? “We’re Here ToWhere Don’t Know Where To Go? Since 1978 - We’re Here To Take Care Of Your Vehicle Needs.

A-1 Transmission Family Owned & Operated The Hill Country Since 1978 “We’re Here• Serving To Help” Since 1978 - We’re Here To Take Care Of Your Vehicle Needs COMPLETE FOREIGN & DOMESTIC AUTOMO STRANDED? Military hunting COMPLETE FOREIGN & DOMESTIC# AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR Auto, Truck, R.V. & 4x4 Transmissions • Brakes • Front End Alignment • Air Conditioning • Classic Ca “We’re Here To Help”

Since 1978 - We’re Here To Take Care Of Your Vehicle Needs.

Family Owned & Operated • Serving The Hill Country Since 1978 Family Owned & Operated • Serving The Hill Country Since 1978

COMPLETE FOREIGN & DOMESTIC AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

Family Owned & Operated • Serving The Hill Country Since 1978 Auto, Truck, R.V. & 4x4 Transmissions • Brakes • Front Alignment • Air Conditioning • Classic Car Drive Train Restoration Repair package Don’t To Go? Auto, Truck, R.V. & 4x4 Transmissions • Brakes • Front End Alignment •Know AirEndConditioning •Where Classic Car Drive Train Restoration & &Repair

“We’re Here To Help” Early Bird • Texas resident active COMPLETE FOREIGN & DOMESTIC AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR Early &Bird After duty military hunting Since 1978 - We’re Here To Take Care Of Your Vehicle Needs. & After Truck,512): R.V. & 4x4 Transmissions • Brakes • Front End Alignment • Air Conditioning • Classic CarHour Drive Train Restoration & Re packageAuto, (Type Drop-Off Family Owned & Operated • Serving The Hill Country Since 1978 Free Hour Kerrville KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

A+1 T

Available

Early Bird

s Hour in the U.S. Army, Navy, 830-896-2234 Drop-Off A+1 TrAnsmission speciAlisTs Marines, Air Force, Coast Drop-Off REPAIR COMPLETE FOREIGN & DOMESTIC AUTOMOTIVE & After Available Kerrville to any Texas rAnsmission peciAlisTs Kerrville Available resident on active dutyAuto, Truck, R.V. & 4x4 Transmissions • Brakes • Front End Alignment • Air Conditioning • Classic Car Drive Train Restoration & Repair KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Kerrville

A+1 TrAnsmission speciAl 830-896-2234 A+1 TrAnsmission speciAlisTs 830-896 A+1 TrAnsmission speciAlisTs 117 Gasoline Alley Kerrville, TX 78028 (1 Block Off Junction Hwy)

Early Bird & After www.a1transmissionskerrville.com Hour Available Drop-Off 117 Gasoline Alley Available www.a1transmissionskerrville.com

Guard, Reserves, or National or 117 StateGasoline Guard. Alley This packageKerrville, includesTXa78028 Kerrville (1 Block Junction Hwy) resident hunting Off license Kerrville, TX 78028 and three state endorse(1 Block 117 Gasoline Alley Off Junction Hwy) ments (archery, upland Kerrville, TX 78028 game bird and migratory 117 Gasoline Alley (1 Block Off Junction Hwy) Kerrville, TX 78028 KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(1 Block Off Junction Hwy)

www.a1transmissio 830-896-2234 www.a1transmissionskerrville.com 830-896-2234 www.a1transmissionskerrville.com

2019 Hunting Guide 5

Chronic Wasting Disease in deer warnings Chronic Wasting Disease is a fatal disease that has been discovered in white-tailed deer, mule deer, and elk in localized portions of Texas. To detect and manage this disease, the department has designated CWD zones.

Hunters who harvest mule deer, white-tailed deer, elk, or other CWD-susceptible species within the CWD Zones are REQUIRED to bring their animals to a TPWD check station within 48 hours of harvest. Hunters must check each animal harvested and receive a CWD receipt before taking any part of that animal from the zone, including any meat or quartered parts.

Additional regulations may apply, and additional zones may be established without prior notice upon discovery of CWD. The department will make every effort to publicize the designation and location of CWD zones and check stations, as well as any special regulations that may be adopted following the publication of this

notice. For the latest updates, call or (800) 792-1112, or visit the CWD information page.

A hunter who harvests a CWD-susceptible species outside a CWD zone and wishes to have the animal tested for CWD should contact a wildlife biologist in that area.

As an alternative to TPWD check stations, a list of Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) Certified CWD Postmortem Sample Collectors who are also TPWD-approved is provided on the CWD information page.

Please report any symptomatic CWD-susceptible species to TPWD.

1/8 Rhodes Taxidermy #

1/2 HC Propane 3504

• CUSTOM MOUNTS • AFRICAN GAME • NATIVE GAME • EXOTICS

Gary Broach, Owner • (830) 896-6996 2391-A Junction Hwy. • Kerrville, TX 78028 gbroach@ktc.com

www.rhodestaxidermy.com

BEST TAXIDERMY

6 In the Crosshairs Hunting equipment, supplies, apparel and outfitters • A & K Farm and Ranch Supply 421 Schreiner St., Kerrville 257-6355 or sales@ aandkfarmandranch.com www.aandkfarmandranch.com • Double L Ranch & Wildlife Feed 3225 Junction Highway, Ingram 367-4100 3122 Memorial Blvd., Kerrville 896-7722 www.doublelfeed.com • Gibson’s Discount Center 111 W. Main St., Kerrville 257-3511 www.gibsonsdiscount.com • Hill Country Arms Inc. 1013 Sidney Baker St., Kerrville 792-7722 • Kerrville Ranch and Pet Center: 1900 Junction Highway, Kerrville 895-5800 www.kerrvilleranchandpet.com • Outlaw Archery & Guns 227 Waggoman Rd., Kerrville

890-5887 • Sportsmen on Film 231 Earl Garrett St., Suite 300, Kerrville 792-4200 or 800-910-HUNT www.sportsmenonfilm.com Hunt bookings and hunting DVDs • Tractor Supply Co. 1305 Sidney Baker St., Kerrville 257-0400 www.tractorsupply.com • Wal-Mart Super Center 1216 Junction Highway, Kerrville 895-7900 www.walmart.com • Young’s Jewelry and Guns 2022 Sidney Baker St., Kerrville 257-3663 www.youngsjewelryandguns. com Taxidermists • Cherokee Tannery & Taxidermy 315 Carolyn St. W, Ingram 367-5224

1301 Broadway, Kerrville 895-1030

2391 Junction Highway A,

• Jet’s Taxidermy Studio 204 Peterson Drive, Kerrville 792-4694 www.jetstaxidermy.com • Heart O’ the Hills Taxidermy 416 Earl Garrett, Kerrville 257-4486 www.heartothehillstaxidermy. com

Kerrville 896-6996 www.rhodestaxidermy.com • Roebuck Taxidermy 120 Wild Cherry Drive, Kerrville 257-3453 • Woodbury Taxidermy 3286 Junction Highway, Ingram

• Neal Coldwell Taxidermist 2590 D Junction Highway, Kerrville 370-1476 or 634-7207

367-5855 www.woodburytaxidermy.com • Trophies by Carey

• Resurrection Taxidermy 107 7th St., Ingram 281-723-3591 or resurrectiontaxidermytexas@ Metro Newspaper Service gmail.com /Stock photo www.resurrection-taxidermy. com • Hammack’s Taxidermy & Tannery • Rhodes Brothers Taxidermy & LLC Game Processing

1518 Broadway, Kerrville 739-6329 www.trophiesbycarey.com • TnT Taxidermy 3345 Junction Highway, Ingram 367-3760 www.tnttaxidermy.com

1/2 NOW! REGISTER CaLL (830) 315-4868 or online @ tgrbigbuckcontest.com Trophy Games Winners receive custom Enter your Whitetail Buck jackets or buckles. $ 25 5644 Fall Wild Turkey attend the Big Buck Contest COnTeST inCLuDeS 164 CaTegOrieS! Men, Women & Youth Categories:

Open Division High Fence Division Low Fence Division Texas Hill Country Division Out-of-State Division Wild Turkey Division Texas Mule Deer Division

RY ENT FEE

award’s ceremony in July 2020 for a chance to win aTVs, Trophy Hunts, Hunting equipment, Knives and more!

• Must Be Registered BEFORE harvesting your animal • Contest starts with opening of Whitetail season • Contest ends January 31, 2020 • Diamond Buck Awards in Open, High Fence & Low Fence Divisions • Animals must be scored by Official TGR Scorer

RULES

or Texas Mule Deer!

For More Info Contact: Trophy Game Records - info@trophyrecords.org • 2419 Junction Hwy • Kerrville, TX 78028

2019 Hunting Guide 7

ProTECT your hunTs 1/2 by protecting your TrEEs

Karen Rockoff 5634

Cattle, Turkey, Whitetail & Exotics all need the trees.

Call the tX hill Country Certified arborists or go online at oakwilt.com

1/8 Ag Pro 5247

830.955.0304 Karen Rockoff is Wildfire Risk Reduction Mitigation Qualified TX Master Certified Landscape Professional TDA Commercial Applicator

8 In the Crosshairs

Where to hunt in Kerr County Apache Springs Ranch Location: 600 Apache Springs Ranch Road W, Hunt Contact: Bill Carter at 281-209-1048, billcarter@ carterscountry.net or www. apachespringstx.com Game: Wild hog, trophy whitetailed deer, Apache Springs Double Drop-Tine Buck, Rio Grande turkeys, exotic big game and varmint Features: Lodging, dining, guided hunts and crystal clear springs

Black Eagle Ranch Location: P.O. Box 1280, Bridge City Contact: 409-718-5860, blackeagleranch@yahoo.com or www.blackeagleranch.com Game: White-tailed deer, axis, blackbuck antelope, père David’s deer, addax, oryx, dama gazelle, sitatunga, muntjac, kudu, red lechwe, nyala, waterbuck, bongo, Texas dall rams, black Hawaiian rams, elk Features: Guided hunts and lodging

Broken Spur Ranch Location: P.O. Box 291950, Kerrville

Metro Newspaper Service/Stock photo Contact: Elton at 285-7217, Kevin at 469-1015 or www. brokenspurwhitetails.com Game: White-tailed deer, axis, fallow, sika, red stag, elk, antelope species, blackbuck,

nilgai, gemsbok, addax, eland, scimitar-horned oryx, sable, Thompson’s gazelle, impala, springbok, water buffalo, bison, aoudad, corsican rams, mouflon, black Hawaiian rams, four-

1/8 Services, LLC LLK Security & Protection LLK Security # Integrity you can count on.”

“Professionalism you can trust.

218 Hamilton St. • Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 896-4112 • www.llksecurityprotection.com License #: C06258901

horned sheep, Texas dall and Iranian red sheep Features: 417-acre high-fenced ranch, as well as lodging and meals at 7,900-square-foot Hacienda style home

Buck Valley Ranch Location: 680 Stoneleigh Road, Center Point Contact: Eric Roehl at 928-2629 or www.buckvalley.com Game: White-tailed deer, axis,

be sure of1/8 your target

gun safety is important!

CHoose WiseLy!

Underwoods A/C #

there are lots of options with your heating & air, too.

Thank You for Choosing Us!

“The Guys In The Blue Vans”

Serving Kerrville & Surrounding Area for over 30 Years

Lee Underwood’s Heating & A/C, Inc. 218 Hamilton St. • Kerrville, TX 78028 • 830-896-4083

TACLB003202C

2019 Hunting Guide 9 fallow deer, blackbuck antelope, scimitar-horned oryx and flocks of Rio Grande turkeys Features: Lodging, meals and personalized service

Cowden Ranch Location: P.O. Box 29, Mountain Home Contact: Tim Cowden at 830-640-3381 Game: Axis deer, corsican rams, Texas dall sheep, black Hawaiian sheep, mouflon type sheep, catalina goat Features: Free roaming hunts

Rogers Ranch

Cuerno Grande Wildlife

Location: 12365 S. Ranch Road 783, Kerrville Contact: Russell Rogers at 257-4519, 285-1179 or www.huntwithrussell.com Game: White-tailed deer, hogs, axis, fallow, blackbuck, sika, sheep and African hoof stock Features: Free range hunting, ranch lodging and guided hunts

Location: P.O. Box 291931, Kerrville Contact: Tim Brown at 329-2838, Mark Matthews at 210-416-2737, cuernogrande@windstream.net or www.cgwildlife.com Game: Trophy white-tailed deer Features: Guided hunts, meals and lodging included

Double “A” Ranch

Shonto Ranch

Location: 119 Littlefield Road, Ingram Contact: Allie Burton at 367-5707 or 640-3382 Game: White-tailed deer, turkey, blackbuck antelope, sika and axis Features: Owner guided hunts, 480 acres, high fenced, managed and harvested

The Patio Ranch

Location: 601 Patio Ranch Road W., Hunt Contact: Gary Ploch at 830-238-4830, thepatioranch@maverickbbs.com or

www.thepatioranch.com Game: Addax, aoudad, Arabian oryx, axis, barasingha deer, blackbuck, fallow deer, four-horned sheep, pure manchurian sika, marhor, pure European mouflon, pure nubian ibex, stumberg sheep, trans caspian urial and white-tailed deer Features: Professional guided hunts, as well as meals and accommodations are available in historic lodge built in 1930

Location: 845 Lower Turtle Creek Road, Kerrville Contact: C.D. McGee at 210-317-4578 or www.shontohunting.com Game: Trophy white-tailed deer and exotics Features: Creeks, dams and waterfalls

blackbuck and auodad

Texas Hunt Lodge Location: 120 Lakehouse Trail W, Ingram Contact: 367-7611 or www.texashuntlodge.com Game: Trophy axis, American buffalo, blackbuck antelope, zebra, trophy fallow, ibex, eland, South Texas white-tailed deer and aoudad sheep Features: More than 60 species of wild game, guided hunts, spot and stalk hunting, safari style hunting and still hunting, bed and breakfast style hunt lodge, as well as plenty of activities such as fishing, swimming, canoeing and kayaking

Y.O. Ranch

Location: 1736 Y.O. Ranch Road, Mountain Home Contact: 830-640-3222, 800-967-2624 or www.yoranch.com Game: Aoudad, axis, blackbuck, catalina, corsican, fallow, 4-horn, black Hawaiian, mouflon, sika, Texas dall, ibex, addax, beisa, bison, blesbok, dama gazelle, eland, elk, gembsbok, pere david, red sheep, red stage, scimitar and waterbuck Features: Guided hunts, lodging and meals offered

Stowers Ranch

Location: 625 Stowers Ranch Road, Hunt Contact: 830-238-4346 or www.stowersranch.com Game: White-tailed deer, turkey, axis, fallow, sika,

Deer CORN and Deer Feeder Batteries...Best Pricing in Town!

1/2 Your One Stop Shop for all your Hunting Needs.

Your Hill Country HunTInG HEADquARTERS

DELIVERY AVAILABLE

• Purina Feeds • Bulk Feed • Deer & Wildlife Feeders, Parts & Accessories • Deer Blocks & Corn • Animal Health Products • Pet Food & Supplies • Tack

We Sell Hunting & Fishing Licenses

• Fertilizers • Ag Chemicals • Gifts & Home Furnishings • Pet Grooming • Men’s & Women’s Clothing & Accessories

Kerrville Ranch & Pet #

www.kerrvilleranchandpet.com

H o u r s : M o n d ay - S a t u r d ay, 7 : 3 0 a m - 6 : 3 0 p m • 1 9 0 0 J u n c t i o n H i g h w ay • Ke r r v i l l e, Te x a s 7 8 0 2 8 • ( 8 3 0 ) 8 9 5 - 5 8 0 0

Courtesy of tpwd.texas.gov

1. White-tailed deer 2. Opossum 3. Raccoon 4. Collared Peccary 5. Skunk 6. Fox Squirrel 7. Bobcat 8. Coyote 9. Ringtail

Can you name the animal from its tracks?

HOW TO TRACK IT! 10 In the Crosshairs

2019 Hunting Guide 11

HUNTING FOR

DEALS Even before the hunt, getting outfitted is part of the fun, especially for first-time hunters

Story by Louis Amestoy

louis.amestoy@dailytimes.com

Photos by Tom Holden photo@dailytimes.com

S

am Liesman has seen it all in his five years of working behind the sporting goods counter of Gibson’s General Store in Kerrville, and the best part of that “seeing it all” is that he’s uniquely qualified to help people who have ZERO clue about hunting.

See OUTFITTING, page 16

12 In the Crosshairs BOAR SPEAR ➤ LEFT: Over at Gibson’s General Store they have one of the greatest hunting tools of all time, although it failed Robert Baratheon in Game of Thrones, and that’s the BOAR SPEAR. Here is how the product, from Cold Steel, is described: Cold Steel’s modern recreation of this classic spear is cold forged out of medium carbon SK-5 steel and heat treated to a spring temper, flexing under stress rather than breaking. The Boar Spear comes complete with a heavyweight American Ash shaft and a sturdy Secure-Ex Sheath.

This thing is 81 1/2-inches long and it looks great. $99

MASK THAT SMELL ➤ ABOVE: There’s nothing more disgusting to a deer than a smelly hunter. So, make sure you’re clean smelling as you head out for the hunt with these products from Control Freak , which will hide your questionable human odors from our four-legged friends in the wild. Products range from laundry detergent to bar soap. $4-25

1/4 Rhino Linings Process 5790

1/4 General Rental Process 3510

2019 Hunting Guide 13 YOUTH HUNTS ACROSS THE HILL COUNTRY Kerr County YMCA Roberts Ranch Hunt date: Dec 13-15 Game type: Deer, hog and varmint Hunt type: Rifle Lodging: RV/campers allowed and tent camping

New Home Dec. 13-15 Hunt Deadline: Nov. 15, 2019 Game Type: Deer, Hunt Type: Rifle Lodging: Provided Lodging Notes: Please bring personal Pillows and sleeping bags.

Description: Incredible 1500 acre Ranch that offers views of exotic African animals while ranch guides help to

ID white tail Deer. During Breaks; Fishing and Archery range is available (equipment for archery is available, bring your own fishing equipment).

Kerrville Schreiner Park Dec. 6-8, 2019 Hunt Deadline: Nov. 8, 2019 Game Type: Deer, and Exotic Hunt Type: Bow Lodging: Lodging Provided Tent Camping Lodging Notes: Lodges will sleep 14 but there is room to sleep more if you have cots. First come first served please bring tents as back up.

Description: There will be a field test for bowhunter education.

Please sign up on TPWD course number 616563. Please take the online portion before coming to

field portion. This is a bow only hunt, crossbows allowed.

Lodging: tent camping

Gillespie County — Sledge Ranch

Harper WMA Hunt In Memory of Jacob Krebs

Hunt date: Nov. 15 Hunt type: Deer, Hog

Jan. 17-19 Hunt Deadline: Nov. 11, 2019

1/2 Security State Bank Process 3510

Game Type: Deer, Hog, Exotic, and Hunt Type: Rifle Lodging: Lodging Provided RV/ Campers Allowed Tent Camping Lodging Notes: We are lodging inside the Harper Community hall and there is also some room for RV’s and tents Description: For Youth of Wounded and Fallen Soldiers; youth of other Veterans next in line! Important: When applying for this hunt, tell us about the Veteran in the notes. Hunting is on several nearby ranches, all other activities at Harper Community Park. This is a Super Hunt with super volunteers, ranch, food and activities-quality time in the deer blind and a lot more!

14 In the Crosshairs Blanco County Rancho Mareeba Hunt date: Nov. 15-17 Registration: Oct. 18 Lodging: Tent Camping Lodging Notes: There is an enclosed barn and a park like setting for tent camping.

Restrooms water and electricity is available.

Sandy Ranch Dec. 13-15 Hunt Deadline: Nov. 15, 2019 Game Type: Deer, Exotic, and Turkey Hunt Type: Rifle Lodging: RV/Campers Allowed Lodging Notes: This is tent camping only so be prepared for a change of weather.

Description: Plenty of deer in the Hill country and Blanco county especially. Hunting in the hill country and the weather changes quick so make sure you are prepared.

We will be camping at Pleasant Hill School House 8.2 miles West of Johnson City on Hwy 290. It is 1.9 miles from Hye going East on Hwy 290.

1/4 Kendall Co. Wild Game Process 5639

Bella Vita Hunt date: Jan. 17-19, 20202 Registration Deadline: Dec. 20, 2019 Game type: Deer, hog and turkey Hunt type: Rifle Lodging: RV/campers allowed tent camping This is an Adventure Hunt for ages 13-17. Hunt slots not filled by Adventure Hunters

1/2 Secor Process 8076

(830) 895-2228

SECOR EQUIPMENT COMPANY 2026 Junction Hwy. • Kerrville, TX 78028

2019 Hunting Guide 15 will be filled from general applicants. This is a spot and stalk style of hunt. Hunters should be comfortable hunting with shooting sticks or improvised rests in the field.

Game type: Deer and hog Hunt type: Rifle Lodging: RV/campers allowed and tent camping

Menard County Rocking R Ranch

Kerr County YMCA Roberts Ranch Hunt date: Dec. 1-3 Registration deadline: Nov. 3 Game type: Deer, hog and upland game bird Hunt type: Rifle Lodging: Tent camping Hunt date: Feb. 14-16, 2020 Game Type: Deer, Exotic, and Hunt Type: Rifle or Bow Lodging: Tent Camping Lodging Notes: This is a tent camping hunt, but Pop up trailers are allowed provided you coordinate with the Lead Huntmaster or TYHP. The road into the area is rough and precludes large trailers especially if it rains. There are no hookups. There is a very large pavilion with bathrooms and showers and a kitchen for the TYHP cook.

Bandera County — T Anchor Ranch

Dec. 6-8, 2019 Hunt Deadline: Nov. 8 Game Type: Deer, Hog, and Hunt Type: Rifle or Bow Lodging: Tent Camping Lodging Notes: Tent camping only. Bathroom in cabin and kitchen to use

Albert and Bessie Kronkosy SNA Hunt date: Dec. 13-15 Registration deadline: Nov. 10

Jan. 4-6, 2020 Hunt Deadline: 12/07/2019 Game Type: Deer, Hog, and Hunt Type: Rifle Lodging: Lodging Provided Lodging Notes: lease bring linens and toiletries. Lodging is split up in 3 different houses.

Description: This ranch sits on the edge of what once was a cattle trail. Consisting of low browse and oak trees, the terrain is a naturally beautiful landscape.

With the main house used to host some hunters and the ranch owner, it is also the main location for meals being served while you sit and watch the Wildlife thru the large window panes. Other bunking facilities consist of a large bunkhouse and half of the ranch foreman’s headquarters. Youth should be able to view native wild Rio Grande Turkey, varmints such as bobcats and raccoons, whitetail deer and wild hogs. This beautiful property is located in between Brady and El Dorado.

1/2 Hunter House Inn & Suites 3511

16 In the Crosshairs

T

rue to his mission, Liesman came back with a rifle .243 centerfire rifle from Thompson Arms. For Liesman this is a simple choice because of the price, precision of the weapon and the availability of the .243 ammunition.

Outfitting Continued from page 11 If you’re new to hunting, shooting, camping or just roaming around the wild of Texas — in and around Kerrville — you’re going to want to stop in and chat with Sam and the folks at Gibson’s.

“Sam, I’m looking to purchase my first rifle, what are my choices?”

“You’re going to want a centerfire rifle,” said Sam, who is the department head for Gibson’s wellstocked store that straddles Junction Highway and Water Street. Without hesitation, Liesman immediately spots a $399 model that he brings to the counter.

“This is a good price for your first rifle,” Liesman said. He pauses, and then follows: “This is a good price for a rifle.” Yes, that was definitive.

Of course, Liesman is wise enough to steer away the novice — novice is probably too kind — away from purchasing the boar spear on the first trip to buy gear for the hunt.

Gibson’s is a wellstocked throwback to a different time in American retailing, when people wanted to talk to experts and engage in a product without necessarily the pressure of being sold something they don’t want, or even need. It’s a conversation. Sure, you could wander the interwebs for hunting deals, but if

OUR LIST ➤ Solid, yet inexpensive rifle that’s good for a first-time hunter. ➤ Inexpensive, yet efficient, ammunition. ➤ A great knife, including one that we’re willing to spend money on that will last for a long time. ➤ A powerful light, with long battery life, that will help us in the field. ➤ A scope, and we saw plenty with great optics and a low price point. ➤ Not to spend more than $1,000 for the basics.

you’re into experience and the expression of human knowledge this is the place to be.

Liesman loves hunting, but he’s pragmatic in his approach to outfitting. He’s not going to arm you with a bunch of stuff you don’t need — unless you want that. In this case we had a simple request — find the right equipment for a first hunt.

The great thing about Sam Liesman is that you can see his mind working.

Of course, that’s the kind of person you want in this sort of retail environment.

We were there for about five minutes and managed

Tom Holden/Times Photo Editor, photo@dailytimes.com

Gibson’s General Store department manager Sam Liesman pulls down a Thompson Arms .243 hunting rifle during a visit to the Kerrville store, where manny local hunters head before going out for the season. to distract one of the Gibson’s workers, who was diligently doing some sort of data entry work behind a computer, to have a conversation about a hunting chair.

True to his mission, Liesman came back with a rifle .243 centerfire rifle from Thompson Arms. For Liesman this is a simple choice because of the price, precision of the weapon See OUTFITTING, page 20

1/4 Valerie Tucker #

2019 Hunting Guide 17

L

iesman loves hunting, but he’s pragmatic in his approach to outfitting. He’s not going to arm you with a bunch of stuff you don’t need — unless you want that. In this case we had a simple request — find the right equipment for a first hunt.

With Sam Liesman’s help, we were able to price a rifle, scope, flashlight, ammo, a cheap knife and a really cool knife for under $1,000 at Gibson’s in Kerrville.

Tom Holden/Times Photo Editor, photo@dailytimes.com

1/2 Back 40

See Jump, page 14

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18 In the Crosshairs

Gear Guide 2019: Stuff You Need SOLID FOOTWEAR

Serving the Discriminating Sportsman over 80 years — preserving the memories that go along with the hunt.

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➤ FAR LEFT: After the hunt you’re probably going to be footsore from trekking around the wilds of Texas, and there’s nothing better than slipping on a pair of camoflauged Crocs. $49. “Oh, so comfy,” Deadpool said. ➤ TOP RIGHT: Remember that most snakes are afraid of you and you’re afraid of them, which means a lot of mutual respect.

With that, if you’re really afraid of the critters that bite, these snake boots from Danner will work. These 17-inch tall boots will protect you against that accidental moment of stepping on a rattler. They retail for $189. ➤ BOTTOM RIGHT: If style and comfort is what you need, then you’re going to want these rugged, yet athletic, boots from Irish Setter. Not only do these boots look smart but they’re insulated and waterproof for those cold and soggy mornings.

They can be yours for $179. ➤ LEFT: We all need a good pair of rubber boots and these Bog’s Bowmen fit the description. $99

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2019 Hunting Guide 19 SOLID BLINDS

SOLID CLOTHING

➤ ON THE LEFT: Look they sold us on the name: Penthouse. Yes, this is a deer sniping palace that can elevate your game in comfort.

Here are the basics from the manufacturer: “Muddy “hard sided blinds come with Therma-Tek panel technology which provides hunters with thermal, scent, and noise control.

Remember, insulation matters. Don’t settle for a fiberglass shell. Also included are silent residential glass window systems and hinges that are one hand operable, a dark carpeted interior, a heavy duty door that seals tight. $3,500

➤ FAR LEFT: There seems to be some debate if you really need camo when you’re hunting deer, but what you do need is utility and nothing says that more than Carhart overalls. Look at all of the pockets. $55 ➤ LEFT: OK, so you want to wear the camo and you want comfort. We will always recommend overalls here, and these “bibs” from from Rip Stop seem to fit the bill for utility, comfort and looks. $45

»

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20 In the Crosshairs Gun Safety Tips The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department offers many tips for gun and hunting safety, including: • Always point the muzzle in a safe direction, controlling the muzzle at all times. Never point a firearm or bow at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Never rest a muzzle on your toe or foot and keep you finger off the trigger until you are going to fire. Keep the safety on until ready to fire.

Gibson’s General Store is the place to be if you’re looking for smart advice on hunting in the Hill Country.

Tom Holden/Times Photo Editor, photo@dailytimes.com

Outfitting Continued from page 16 and the availability of the .243 ammunition.

“I pick the .243 for that reason,” Liesman said about the abundance of ammunition for the weapon.

Like many things, technological improvements have lowered the barrier to entry in shooting sports.

Liesman said a $200 Nikon-made scope is an example of this — something great for a beginner, which a seasoned hunter can already appreciate.

In fact, the Nikon model Sam sold us was priced at $121.99.

I

t almost seems criminal to buy a knife in a package when there are so many craftsmen who make knives locally.

“This is really great for an experienced shooter,” Liesman explains about the scope.

For about $600, we’re outfitted with a rifle, scope and ammo. Now, since we’re heading into the wild and there’s no personal assistant to carry our stuff or field dress the critter we’ve taken down, and for that we’re going to need a knife.

One of the interesting things about Texas, especially here in the Hill Country, is that it almost seems criminal to buy a knife in a package when there are so many craftsmen who make knives locally. One of those makers in Keith Richard, who makes these gorgeous knives, crafted for a lifetime of work in the field. It would certainly be easy to buy a cheap one (which we did),

but the investment in a quality knife is certainly worth it.

If there’s one amazing bit of technology, which is handy for any purpose, it’s the explosion of powerful flashlights. It used to be that everyone wanted to carry a reliable and durable Mag Light, and while that’s still an option, Gibson’s sells a wide range of flashlights that can light up a chunk of Kerrville. The one we picked was a Redline V — a 500 lumens light that costs about $25. With this you can get more than two hours of quality light at the highest settings.

The other things we took a look at included hunting clothing, vests for safety, and, of course, all of the official permits and provisos for a day in the wild.

• Always point a firearm in a safe direction and check to see if it is loaded. Be sure the chamber and magazine are empty and that the action is open until ready to be fired.

If you do not understand how to determine if it is loaded, do not accept the firearm until someone has safely shown you that it is unloaded. Read your instruction manual carefully before you handle new firearms or bows.

• Be sure of your target and what is in front of and beyond your target. Never take a shot at any animals on top of ridges or hillsides. Know how far bullets, arrows and pellets can travel. Never shoot at flat, hard surfaces such as water, rocks or steel because of ricochets.

• Properly identify game animals using binoculars, not a scope. Don’t shoot until a target is fully visible and in good light.

• Unload firearms and unstring conventional bows when not in use.

• Leave actions open, and store sporting arms in cases when traveling to and from shooting areas. Take bolts out or break down shotguns if necessary. Know how your equipment operates. Store and transport firearms and ammunition separately and under lock and key. Store firearms and bows in cool, dry places. Use gun or trigger locks and guards when not in use.

• Avoid horseplay with firearms. Never climb a fence, a tree or a ladder, difficult terrain or jump a ditch with a loaded firearm or bow and arrows. Never face or look down the barrel from the muzzle end. Match ammunition to the gauge or caliber you are shooting. Always carry arrows in a protected cover or quiver. Learn the proper carries.

Use the two-hand carry for best muzzle control. Always carry handguns with hammers over an empty chamber or cylinder. If you fall, be sure to disassemble the gun and check the barrel from the breech end for obstructions.

Carry a field cleaning kit.

• When hunting, wear daylight fluorescent orange so you can be seen from a distance or in heavy cover.

• Wear hearing and eye protection. Don’t drink alcohol or take drugs before or while handling firearms or bow and arrows.

2019 Hunting Guide 21

Take a reading hunting adventure Louis Amestoy

louis.amestoy@dailytimes.com

I

f you ever wanted to learn about hunting, including the history of the sport, there are plenty of options, including the ButtHoldsworth Library in Kerrville, or even YouTube, which offers thousands of videos on the sport, but we also have a great resource for hunters at Wolfmueller’s Bookstore in downtown.

We stopped by and visited John Wolfmueller, asking him about his recommendation and he immediately turned us on to three local authors who wrote extensively about hunting in Texas and the Hill Country. One of the prizes is “Hunting in Texas,” written by Texas sporting legend Alex Cox, whose life is just as fascinating as his writing.

Cox’s book was first published in 1947 — after he returned from his service in World War II, where he spent part of his time trekking in the Himalayas.

Cox, who died in 2005 in Corpus Christie, filled his book with textbook-type illustrations and graphs.

Another prize is “Hunting Trophy Deer,” by the late John Wootters, a resident of Kerrville, who had been the editor of Petersen’s Hunting magazine.

Wooters wrote about hunting whitetail bucks across Texas.

“John was also an expert on firearms and was a frequent contributor to Guns & Ammo in his earlier years,” wrote Todd Smith in a 2013 remembrance of Wootters life. “He was a master of all the shooting disciplines and a lover of cowboy action shooting.

But John loved hunting best, and he loved hunting whitetails best of all.

“I was lucky to have received a number of invitations from John and Jeanne Wootters to hunt with them when they owned their ranch just outside of Laredo, Texas. Los Cuernos, as it was called, was a model for whitetail management, long before managing for trophy deer was fashionable. Heck, Wootters literally wrote the book on it.”

1/4 Hunting ForGibsons Gear?

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• Oct. 19 & 20 Abilene Convention Center

•Oct. 26 & 27 - Fredericksburg Fair Grounds •Nov. 16 & 17 - Kerrville Event Center •Dec. 28 & 29 - Kerrville Event Center

2020 • Jan. 25 & 26 Abilene Convention Center

•Feb. 15 & 16 •Feb. 22 & 23 -

Fredericksburg Fair Ground

Kerrville Event Center • Mar. 21 & 22 Amarillo Civic Center • Mar. 28 & 29 Abilene Convention Center

texasgunandknifeshows.com for more information, call 830-285-0575

22 In the Crosshairs

YUMMY, OFTEN SPICY, VENISON RECIPES Spicy Venison Stroganoff 1-1/2 pounds boneless venison steak, cubed 1 medium onion, sliced 1 can (10-1/2 ounces) condensed beef broth, undiluted 1 cup of pickled japalapenos 1 tablespoon ketchup 1 teaspoon curry powder 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4-1/2 teaspoons cornstarch 1/2 cup sour cream 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish Hot cooked noodles

Gluten-free bacon green chile venison burgers to die for 1 pound peppercorn bacon, diced 5 pounds ground venison 2 cups pork rinds 1/2 cup Hatch green chile 1/4 cup evaporated milk 5 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon ground pepper

Want to make these recipes, but you don’t hunt? Check out these three local retailers who sell wild game meat:

Broken Arrow Ranch Meat Sold: Axis, antelope, wild boar, quail and dorper lamb Location: 3296 Junction Highway, Ingram Contact: 367-5875 or www.brokenarrowranch.com

Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate. Place bacon in a stainless steel bowl; add venison, pork rinds, green chile, milk, garlic, and pepper. Mix venison mixture usPlace venison and onion in a 3-qt. slow cooker. ing your hands and form into 5-ounce balls. Press Combine the next seven ingredients; pour over balls with the back of a side dish to form patties. venison. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 3-1/2 Grill patties on the preheated grill until desired hours or until meat is tender. doneness is reached, about 5 minutes per side. An In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, sour instant-read thermometer inserted into the cencream and horseradish. Gradually stir into venison ter should read at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees mixture. Cover and cook 15 minutes longer or until C). Wrap it in lettuce. Forget the bun. sauce is thickened. Serve with noodles.

Venison Italian Wedding Soup 1 pound ground venison 1 onion, chopped1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes 2 (8 ounce) cans tomato sauce 3 cups water 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 teaspoons dried basil 2 teaspoons dried oregano 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans 1 cup fresh green beans 1 carrot, chopped 1 zucchini, chopped Package of Acini de Pepe pasta

Wild Game Retailers

Woodbury Taxidermy Inc. Location: 3286 Junction Highway, Ingram Contact: 367-5855 or www.woodburytaxidermy.com

Klein Smokehaus Meat Sold: Venison and wild boar sausage Location: 342 N. Main St., Boerne Contact: 249-8063 or www.kleinsmokehaus.com

Hatch Green Chile Venison Mac and Cheese Brown venison, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink.

Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, and spices. Bring to a boil, and then simmer for about 30 minutes.

Stir in beans, carrots, and zucchini. Simmer soup for 90 minutes. Add pasta, and cook until tender. Top individual servings with grated cheese, and serve. Serve it with a hearty bread and fresh butter.

1 pound ground venison 1 pound penne pasta 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup grated Swiss cheese 1 cup grated Jalapeno Jack cheese 2 cups heavy cream 2 ½ cups half-&-half ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes ¾ teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 can of Hatch Green Chile Saute the venison with red pepper, salt and then add the rest of your wet ingredients. Cook the pasta for 3-4 minutes more than the directions on the box. When the pasta is cooked,

drain and shock the pasta under cold running water. Shake all of the excess water off the pasta and place in a plastic container. Stir in the rest of the ingredients, cover and refrigerate for 3 hours.

Remove the pasta mixture and spoon on top of the chili. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and bake for 40 minutes at 350 degrees.

Remove from the oven and let sit 10 minutes before serving.

2019 Hunting Guide 23

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24 In the Crosshairs

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