DOVE DAYS A TRAVELER’S TALE | PAGE 10 CAJUN DOWN UNDER | PAGE 22
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HUNTING texas
Blinds and Feeders are all we know
J&L has been meeting hunters’ needs with highquality feeders, blinds and so much more for more than 30 years as an industry-leading retailer that prides itself on full customer service satisfaction.
With J&L being a dealer for Atascosa Wildlife Supply, All Seasons, Outback, Dillon Blinds, GreenGo Feeders, Longhorn Outdoors, Texas Hunter Products and Texas Wildlife Supply, there is a tremendous selection of blinds, towers, windows, feeders and feeder accessories. J&L also carries top-quality feed, such as locally raised cleaned corn (Grooms Seed), roasted soybean blends, peanuts, Cervid Complete, Purina AntlerMax, Double Down as well as bulk feed, delivered to your location and/or will fill your feeders.
No Time to get blinds and feeders set-up and ready? Let us do it for you.
Call, text, or come see us for easy, no-hassle shopping — or shop online. J&L is a fullservice shop for hunters with convenient curbside pickup and turn-key delivery availability; that way you can spend all your time enjoying the important things like making memories with friends and family while hunting and enjoying the Texas wildlife.
Call and schedule a delivery or just come and see us.
J&L offers the largest inventory of deer blinds and feeders, while growing big and doing bigger things. We are owned and operated by hunters to help hunters.
If you don’t already know us... you’ll feel like you do.
TDHA’s Banded Bird Challenge Promotes Research and Prizes for Hunters
Texas Dove Hunters Association has been a true hunter’s organization since it began in 2012, promoting strong family unity through hunting and outdoors.
TDHA developed the Texas Banded Bird Challenge in 2018 as a field study on the Eurasian Collared dove, an invasive species in Texas. We have since built an extensive database centered on where these birds are trapped, banded, and released, compared to where they are found or harvested. We study the habitat in all three locations, looking at directional travel, age, and distance over time.
This year will mark the eighth year of the study, and some 6,400 birds having been banded and released in Texas. The top prize is a new truck provided by Hoffpauir Auto Group, which is a pre-determined band number. The rest of the prizes are guaranteed to entrants who report a TDHAbanded Eurasian during the contest dates: Sept. 1 – Dec. 31. From a Polaris Ranger, exotic hunts, trout fishing trip, Argentina dove hunt, deer feeders, leather products, gun accessories and targets, and more, your $20 TBBC entry could pay off big.
The TDHA release team travels across the state to release the birds in different regions. The contest continues to gain momentum and generate exciting insights into the habits of these invasive birds. This season’s results and winners will be recapped in the Spring 2026 issue of Texas Dove Hunters Magazine.
Join or renew your TDHA membership today.
Enter the TBBC by August 31.
TEXAS DOVE HUNTERS ASSOCIATION
☎ (210) 764-1189
TEXASDOVEHUNTERS.COM
ELOS 2 ELITE
For over a century, Fabarm has been merging traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to create shotguns that combine attractiveness and functionality. The Fabarm Elos 2 Elite is no exception. The Elos 2 Elite is a purpose-built shotgun, with refinements that you can feel as well as see.
Its Pistol Grip stock provides a comfortable and repeatable hand placement and smooth mount during the sudden flush of wild birds. While its light weight adds to the ease of carrying during long days in the field. The stock and fore end are crafted with a deluxe grade of walnut with a matte oil finish to provide a distinguished look.
Designed for the discerning upland hunter, the receiver is richly color-case hardened with traditional game scene engraving and gold inlays of game birds. Tested on some of the toughest upland birds in the world, this fine Italian shotgun will deliver consistent performance for American hunters all season long.
Fabarm’s proven Tribore HP tapered bore and inner HP chokes ensure
Abilene Gun Works Abilene, TX 79601 325-704-5174
Able Sporting, Inc. Huntsville, TX 77320 936-295-5786
Ally Outdoors Midland, TX 79705 432-203-3661
Alpine Shooting Range Fort Worth, TX 76140 817-478-6613
August M. Crocker Austin, TX 78727 512-567-7855
Baker Outdoors Lubbock, TX 79424 806-516-5700
Berg’s Outdoors Broussard, LA 70518 504-610-4319
BPS Outfitters Sherman, TX 75090 903-892-2227
Briley Manufacturing Houston, TX 77043 800-331-5718
Cajun Gun & Gear Lafayette, LA 70508 337-999-0373
Cole Gunsmithing San Antonio, TX 78253 210-906-0857
Clay Shooters Supply San Antonio, TX 78253 210-610-2999
Defender Outdoors Fort Worth, TX 76107 817-935-8377
Dury’s Gun Shop San Antonio, TX 78223 210-533-5431
Elite Shotguns San Antonio, TX 78253 210-741-9940
Gordy & Sons Outfitters Houston, TX 77007 713-333-3474
Gray’s Shotgun Cache Amarillo, TX 79118 806-622-8142
Jeff’s Gun Shop Wichita Falls, TX 76310 940-631-2314
Joshua Creek Ranch Boerne, TX 78006 830-537-5090
KB House of Guns Boswell, OK 74727 580-566-1400
Lone Star Guns Weatherford, TX 76087 817-599-9275
Mumme’s Inc. Hondo, TX 78861 830-426-3313
Past & Blast Whitesboro, TX 76273 903-564-5444
Rocky Creek Outdoors Texarkana, AR 71854 903-278-8780
Scheels (The Colony) The Colony, TX 75056 469-854-7500
Sharp Shooters Lubbock, TX 79407 806-791-1231
Superior Outfitters Tyler, TX 75703 903-617-6141
Texas Ranch Outfitters Yantis, TX 75497 903-383-2800
Windwalker Farms Stanton, TX 79782 432-458-3324
Wilkerson’s Gun Shop Boerne, TX 78006 830-388-7205
A TRAVELER’S TALE
By Bre Lewis
For Lone Star outdoor newS
Greeted by a smiling African holding “Bre Lewis, Numzaan Safaris” when I stepped out of the airbridge from my plane to South Africa was not only a kind welcome but truly a red carpet treatment, speeding and easing my way through customs with all my hunting gear.
Traveling overseas with hunting equipment, especially if bringing a firearm, is stressful, even when you’ve made the effort to dot the “i”s.
The “VIP” treatment Numzaan Safaris provides for all their clients takes away the worry and
saves time waiting in lengthy lines after a long flight. Of all the countries I’ve traveled, never had the arrival and customs clearance been quicker or easier. My appreciation of the airport security staff who escorted me was not limited to breezing through customs, however. When we stepped out of the security area, the formidable throng crowding the receiving terminal of the airport was overwhelming. Passengers were badgered by people looking to “help” or give them a ride. I was no novice to traveling to new and, often, third-world countries. Still the scene could have been intense, a struggle to navigate through the persistent
Dove Days of Summer
By Conor Harrison
Lone Star outdoor newS
and unrelenting swarm in an attempt to find and reach the blue shirts of the professional hunters collecting me. However, my VIP airport security assistant had the professional hunters on the phone, parted the crowd, and didn’t leave my side until we met up with them.
This special collection was especially appreciated because of the slight unease I felt about my travels after a phone call from my parents a few weeks before I left for South Africa. They were concerned for my safety traveling here after the US news highlighted acts of violence and issued a travel advisory. I took their concerns into consider-
ation but still was game to come to South Africa.
What I wish I knew to tell my parents (and myself) is that the safari company was not going to leave me alone here to fend for myself at all. Having someone to trust and to facilitate the process immediately when I landed, and then hand the reins over to the knowledgeable and capable PHs proved immensely reassuring.
The beautiful, remote, and secure lodge and hunting areas quickly and completely restored my sense of ease. True, the hairs on the back of my neck may have tingled while stalking a huge Cape buffalo, especially when the cows ran down a draw, un-
It doesn’t feel like it based on the current 100+ degree Texas days, but the annual Sept. 1 unofficial opening of all things Texas hunting – the dove opener – is less than one month away.
It seems like 90 percent of dove hunters only hunt opening morning. Does more effort go into any other game animal for one morning of camaraderie and time afield than the dove? What draws us to this flying acrobat to the point farmers will devote months to cultivate a field so hunters can spend a few hours doing that we love? Maybe it’s just because it’s so much fun.
Maybe we should spend more days, cooler days, chasing these tasty morsels of the air. Might just do that this season.
knowingly toward us, after the shot. However, that “on edge” feeling is exactly what keeps me coming back to Africa!
While I’m sure the travel advisory is helpful for many tourists exploring South Africa alone, Numzaan shelters clients from any human-caused risk by only going to safe and appropriate areas. On top of the exclusive lodges and hunting areas, you can travel to national parks to photograph more wildlife or play golf and enjoy a meal out at the luxury golf resort close by. They save your thrills for game animals only!
Bre Lewis
GUNSTIX SHOOTING STICKS
Experience the next evolution in shooting support with GunStix—quad-legged shooting sticks engineered for superior stability and precision.
Designed to outperform traditional bipods and tripods, GunStix enables bench rest accuracy with ease. Confidently shoot at long ranges. Dual contact points at the forearm and stock ensure your rifle remains fully supported at all times — especially beneficial for youth shooters and women seeking added control and confidence.
Fully adjustable, GunStix adapts seamlessly to various shooting positions, whether seated, standing, kneeling, or navigating uphill and downhill terrain.
Weighing 2.4 pounds and folding down to a compact 32.5 inches, these sticks are perfect to practice with and take on your next hunt. Trusted and tested by shooters worldwide for consistent, impressive results. Discover more, view demonstration videos, or order your set today. Try them risk-free— if you’re not completely satisfied, simply return them for a full refund.
2025-2026 hunting season dates
Dove Gear’s Ultimate Bird Vest Gets An Upgrade
With dove season just around the corner, it’s time to gear up. And if you’re still using the same old vest or bird belt, you’re missing out on one of the best pieces of upland gear on the market.
For 2025, Rockport-based Dove Gear is raising the bar once again with an all-new camouflage color pattern and a brand-new “Bird Gear” edition in sage and safety orange for upland bird hunters.
These new additions expand the well-earned name — The Ultimate Bird Vest. After five years of rave reviews, the company still has never received even one return under its 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.
Crafted with premium materials, the Ultimate Bird Vest features a breathable mesh back and minimal strap design to keep you cool on even the hottest September hunts. It’s made to last, yet light (under 18 ounces) and comfortable enough to wear all day.
From top to bottom, this vest is loaded with smart features:
• Six-way adjustability fits nearly any hunter from youth to 4XL.
• Velcro-secured shell pouches with dual positioning — outside for security, inside when the action is hot and heavy.
• Zippered security pockets behind each shell pouch to protect valuables like your phone or glasses.
• Washable bird bag for easy cleanup.
• Zippered rear hull pouch to keep your empties in check.
• 32-ounce water bottle holder for staying hydrated—you or your dog.
And for outfitters, lodges, or corporate events, Dove Gear offers custom embroidery to make your vests as professional as your hunts.
Now available in new 2025 styles:
• Brown/Camo (newly updated camo pattern!)
• Sage/Safety Orange “Bird Gear” Edition
The Ultimate Bird Vest is the go-to product for serious bird hunters. Order yours now and get ready for the season opener.
“I visited Joshua Creek for a corporate event. We hunted behind dogs the first afternoon and had a great experience. The guide was knowledgeable, knew his dogs well and was enjoyable to be around. The second day we did a driven hunt and had a great time as well. Overall, this place was beautiful, the staff were professional, and the hunts were exceptional. Lodge, food, and bar were also wonderful.”
Will C. | Orvis.com Review
YOUR TEXAS HUNTING, SPORTING DESTINATION
Perched atop a mesa just west of Fort Worth, Greystone Castle is a sight to behold. With four turrets peeking above the tree line, this majestic sight is one to be remembered. From its award-winning wingshooting program to trophy whitetail and exotics, world-class bass fishing and our national champion sporting clays instructor, there is something for everyone at Greystone Castle.
The Gold Medal whitetail deer program offers an all-inclusive package based on the opportunity to hunt the opening weekend of the season. Not restricted by score, it is an exclusive chance to hunt for the whitetail of your dreams.
As evidenced by being named the Orvis 2015 Wingshooting Lodge of the Year, Greystone has mastered the art of bird hunting. The ever-popular mixed bag hunt includes quail, pheasant, chukar and Hungarian partridge. This upland walking hunt allows guests to experience great pointing dogs working over rolling terrain specially farmed for optimal bird habitat. The European pheasant hunt is a great way to get lots of shooting action and watch Labradors do what they do best — retrieve birds. The mallard hunts offer a great chance to improve your skills over water while the fast-flying dove hunts offer an adrenaline rush every hunter craves.
If you are looking for something different, you will find it in the exotic pasture full of animals from around the world. Species from Africa, Asia, South America and Europe roam the North Texas plains and thrive in the southern climate. Breeding herds of axis deer, aoudad, blackbuck antelope, sika and fallow deer mean there are plenty of trophies to be taken.
For those looking to relax and enjoy the water, Greystone offers more than 120 acres of stocked bass lakes. From small private lakes to the 80-acre Thurber Lake, every type of fishing opportunity exists.
From fly-fishing to spincasters or a simple hook and bobber, there is a method for everyone. Kayaks and paddleboards let you go off on your own adventure or you can jump on a pontoon boat to sneak to the honey holes.
Two championship sporting clays courses, two 5-stands, a training course and a wobble deck challenge every level of shooter. Our new 400-yard rifle and pistol range offers steel targets at a variety of distances. Hone your skills on the new archery course featuring a tri-level static range and a three dimensional walking course. Or just enjoy the scenic hiking and biking trails.
What appeals to Greystone visitors is its top-of-the-line accommodations and gourmet meals. Guests enjoy 26 private rooms, gourmet dining from an executive chef, conference facilities and a swimming pool with a hot tub and a steam room. Along with this is the 2,600 square-foot pavilion facility with a custom bar, large seating areas, 65-inch TVs, carved limestone fireplace, Laser Shot, billiards and an overlook terrace with a custom outdoor fire pit.
The ownership and staff are dedicated to creating one of the finest sporting experiences found anywhere in the world. Long-term habitat improvements and wildlife management have made Greystone an extraordinary hunting venue.
CAJUN GIRL BECOMES HUNTER IN NEW ZEALAND
By Chaise Sutherland For Lone Star outdoor newS
Being from Southwest Louisiana near the Texas border, I grew up in what we call Sportsman’s Paradise. Hunting and fishing have always been crucial to the Cajun way of life. Hunting was my father’s favorite pastime and fishing my grandfather’s.
But it wasn’t until I found myself surrounded by rugged mountains, mirror-like lakes, beaucoup sheep, and fascinating species in New Zealand that I decided I wanted to make hunting and fishing my own. As a junior in college studying travel, tourism, and languages, I took an internship with Glen Dene Hunting and Fishing, an outfitter on the South Island.
For half the week I served hunters their dinner in the lodge after they came in from their hunts. The other half of the week I worked skinning and salting hides, and power-washing skulls to prepare the harvested animals for taxidermy.
I like to say I had the best of both worlds, being bloody and covered in brains for half the week and dolled up with my pearls for the other half. Little did I know that I’d fall in love with learning about the anatomy of the animals - red stag, fallow, tahr, chamois, pacific goats, and arapawa rams. I’d also fall in love with the wholesomeness of the sport, the stories I’d hear from hunters in the lodge and from the guides, the experiences of the team I worked with, and the testimonies of sincere pursuit towards wildlife conservation taking place across the world.
Thanks to Richard and Sarah Burdon,
owners of Glen Dene, who graciously hosted me, and to the lifelong friends I made there, I was able to harvest my first deer - a beautiful red deer hind and later a fallow doe. As I skinned, butchered, and processed my first deer I’d just taken I couldn’t help but think, “this is the way it’s supposed to be.”
After processing the deer, I took a tenderloin and cooked it for lunch, and from that moment I was hooked…I wanted to hunt for the rest of my life. The process is pure and incredibly rewarding.
During my free time, I was also introduced to fishing. I got to learn about different types of trout from locals and even take a fly-fishing lesson, which I found truly enjoyable.
From what I learned about hunting and fishing in New Zealand, I became eager to go home and share the experiences with my friends and family. I also couldn’t wait to go home and hunt and fish species available in my own stomping grounds.
From this excitement, I made plans to continue learning about conservation, as I had learned so much from hunters all over the world and the different projects and species they were passionate about.
I recently took an opportunity to continue learning by interning with the Dallas Safari Club for the Summer Expo and Foundation Gala. This was an incredible opportunity as I got to catch up with old friends made in New Zealand, connect with outfitters from all over the world, guides/professional hunters, and work alongside a team of interns my age who also care about this industry and want to make a difference.
For young women like myself looking to get involved with hunting or fishing, my advice is to join local sportsman’s clubs or chapters that are active in the community. Find experienced hunters and anglers, ask lots of questions, and ask to hear their stories. Volunteer to tag along on hunts or fishing trips, attend shows like the DSC Convention, and stop and visit with the people working the booths. Look for internships with outfitters to continue learning and gaining hands-on experience.
Before I left for New Zealand, I couldn’t have understood the impact the internship would have on me. I couldn’t have expected it would mean being across the world for a Cajun girl to become passionate about the hunting lifestyle, but I suppose that’s what it took.
As a now senior in college, I look forward to my future in this field. From the Internship, I realized I wanted to be a part of conservation projects, hunt and fish sustainably, and share the knowledge I gained with those around me.
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SOUTH AFRICA MOZAMBIQUE
ZAMBIA
Chaise Sutherland
Buffalo Wool Company stands out
When it comes to fall and winter hunting gear, The Buffalo Wool Company stands out with its exceptional use of American bison fiber and merino wool.
This unique combination creates apparel that excels in the harshest conditions, making it a top choice for hunters. The company’s gear, including gaiters, gloves, socks, hats, and more, offers unparalleled warmth and comfort, thanks to bison fiber’s natural insulating properties. Sourced from American bison, this fiber features a crimpy down undercoat that traps thousands of tiny air pockets, providing superior warmth even in subzero temperatures—ideal for early morning stands or late-season hunts. Its fineness, ranging from 17 to 22 microns, ensures a soft, itch-free feel, while its moisture-wicking ability keeps hunters dry during long treks.
Blended with merino wool, renowned for its breathability and durability, The Buffalo Wool Company enhances its gear’s performance. This blend maintains warmth when wet and offers natural odor resistance for extended wear. The company’s unwavering commitment to American-made products, sourcing all materials and crafting every item in the USA, ensures exceptional quality and supports local economies. The gear excels at protecting extremities from extreme cold: hats shield the head with a thick, insulating layer; fingerless or full fingered gloves safeguard hands while allowing dexterity; and boot socks provide robust warmth and cushioning for feet, preventing frostbite in frigid conditions.
Hunters praise the lightweight yet sturdy design, with reviews highlighting its reliability across diverse climates. In essence, The Buffalo Wool Company delivers the best hunting gear for fall and winter.
sunrise/sunset 2025-2026
SPORTING CLAY EXPERIENCE at Wildpoint Ranch
We have a truly unique Sporting Clay course here at Wildpoint Ranch.
Nestled in a natural wooded area on the ranch, which lies in the old Red River breaks just outside of Saint Jo, Texas, the course is set up so there are not only outgoing targets, but incoming, as well. Challenge yourself on the Springing Teal station, where you shoot out of a stationary boat as if the teal were taking off from the water. The Sporting Clays course features 10 stations and 100 targets, including a Rolling Rabbit station where the target rolls & hops along the ground. Most of our stations are in the shade.
Come catch a glimpse of the whitetail, blackbuck antelope, fallow deer and aoudad that roam the ranch. Standard Trap is also available. Families are always welcome at Wildpoint Ranch and safety is our number one priority. Come have fun and see if you can get your name on the leaderboard of top 5 shooters each month.
Family owned and operated since 2001, Wildpoint Ranch has been running a successful hunting operation since 2005. Ask about our hunts while you are here.
Wildpoint also has a 500-yard rifle range and a pistol range available to rent, so you can shoot all day.
Coming soon will be bunkhouse rentals. Come shoot the course, zero in your rifle, try out your new pistol at the range, watch the animals and relax. Make it a weekend for friends and family.
WILDPOINT RANCH
☎ (972) 922-4225
WILDPOINTRANCH.COM
Texas Hold’em Started Here, Never Left
Poker has never been just about the cards. It’s about reading a man like a map and knowing when to make your move. Poker has been played across the world for centuries. Variations of card games started in 16th century Persia and then spread across Europe. All early versions of poker varied due to word-of-mouth rules. When poker reached America, its popularity spread alongside the expansion of railroads in the 19th century.
But Texas Hold‘em started in saloons and backrooms with cigars and whiskey. The true origins and creation of Texas Hold’em were written in chips, not ink. This led to lots of speculation about the exact details of its invention. The Poker Hall of Famer Blondie Forbes is credited with establishing the modern rules of Texas Hold’em. In 2007, Robstown, Texas became the official birthplace of Texas Hold’em through the Texas state legislature.
Its popularity began soaring in Las Vegas in the 1960s when it was introduced to the casinos and played in small backroom games, eventually attracting a larger following. It was then included in the very first World Series of Poker. After the first year, no-limit Texas Hold’em became the featured main event and has been ever since. After being established as the more popular version, the reach of Texas Hold’em became global.
The “Poker Boom” happened in the early 2000s. This was due to movies, media, and literature about the game. It is also due to Chris “Moneymaker” who was an amateur player from Tennessee who made the final table of the WSOP main event with a $39 buy-in from an online satellite tournament, who then went on to win the $2.5 million cash prize. Due to the poker boom, Texas
now the most popular variant of poker worldwide.
The spirit of the game still lives on, right here in Texas. The best place found to be keeping that spirit alive is Texas Card House. It recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and first season of its proprietary tournament, Trailblazer Poker Tour. With six locations open 24/7 across the state, it offers a welcoming and competitive space for all kinds of players. Texas Card House also offers a new way to play with its Hijack Poker app — allowing players to compete for real money online and conveniently cash out at any TCH location across Texas. You can go online for more information.
Hold’em is
THE NEXT GENERATION OF AMERICA’S FAVORITE HUNTING RIFLE
The Ruger American ® Rifle Generation II is an update to the American-made rifle that has been the benchmark for accuracy, durability, and performance in bolt-action rifles for over a decade. Designed with customer feedback in mind, the Ruger American Rifle Generation II is available in a variety of calibers and is sure to become the first choice for hunters and firearms enthusiasts.
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H aChieve PRoPeR BUCK to Doe Ratios
H CUll infeRioR DeeR
H maximize hUnteRs’ time in the fielD
H the “Daylight aCCess only” featURe:
• viRtUally eliminates feeD loss to noCtURnal vaRmits
• ReDUCes attRaCtiveness to feRal hogs & ResUlting feeD Contamination
H HELPS REDUCE FEED COSTS
OutbACk’S innOvAtive Herd MAnAgeMent Feeder Sy SteMS* Are endOrSed by renOwned wildliFe biOlOgiSt MACy ledbetter And Fully pAtented
ACCELERATE GENETIC IMPROVEMENT in your deer herd! Capitalize on additional harvest opportunities created by the PFACS and CFACS systems maximizing your hunters’ access to specific target animals!
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