Hunting Texas Annual 2016

HUNTING texas Annual 2016

Deer, dove and ducks

Dakota the office dog

Advertising Section

DECISION 2016 GET $50 BACK ON ANY ® ® VX -1 OR MARK AR MOD 1

GET YOUR $50 BACK FROM LEUPOLD: 1. VISIT YOUR LEUPOLD® DEALER AUGUST 10 – OCTOBER 2, 2016.

2. PURCHASE ANY LEUPOLD VX®-1 OR MARK AR® MOD 1 RIFLESCOPE. 3. VISIT LEUPOLD.COM/REWARDS, FILL OUT THE ONLINE FORM TO SUBMIT YOUR CLAIM, OR DOWNLOAD, PRINT OUT AND SEND IN THE CLAIM FORM. LEUPOLD.COM/REWARDS

© 2016 Leupold & Stevens, Inc.

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The Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 was given the 2015 Golden Bullseye Award from NRA’s Shooting Illustrated as Optic of the Year.

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

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HUNTING texas

HUNTING texas

Annual 2016

Dakota the office dog

Advertising Section

About the Cover:

Meet Dakota, the yellow lab who spends each day at the Lone Star Outdoor News office. The cover image was shot shortly after Dakota, now 5 1/2-months old, was brought home. Read about Dakota on page 30.

Annual 2016

David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoors News

Advertisers: MUD BUDDY………………………… 33

AMERICAN SHOOTING CENTERS… 25

NIKON……………………………… 36

BARNES BULLETS………………… 17

RECORD RACK……………………… 14

BREAKTHROUGH CLEAN TECHNOLOGIES…………………… 24

REDNECK HUNTING BLINDS…… 13

CHICKEN EXPRESS………………… 34 CINNAMON CREEK WILD GAME PROCESSING……………………… 27 COAST……………………………… 35 COWBOY'S WILD GAME WASHER…… 9 DEER BREEDERS CORP…………… 22

RHODES BROS TAXIDERMY……… 20 ROCKWALL GUN CLUB…………… 29 RUSSELL MOCCASIN……………… 16 SIGHTMARK / SELLMARK………… 23 SIXSITE GEAR……………………… 17 STAY-TUFF FENCE MFG., INC.…… 12 STEALTH CAM………………………… 3

DUCKS UNLIMITED………………… 21

TEXAS DOVE HUNTERS ASSOCIATION……………………… 27

ESP/ ELECTRONIC SHOOTING PROTECTION……………………… 17

TEXAS STATE RIFLE ASSOCIATION… 16

FORD FAMILY RANCH……………… 26

THE BLYND/PLASTIC VACUUM FORMING INC……………………… 16

FORMEX………………………………… 8 FREER DEER CAMP………………… 23 GREYSTONE CASTLE SPORTING CLUB………………………………… 15 HERITAGE LAND BANK…………… 10 HOFFPAUIR………………………… 31 HONEST TOM'S GUIDING SERVICE …11 JIM'S JEEPS………………………… 16 KT COOLERS………………………… 24 LEUPOLD……………………………… 2 MCCLELLAND GUN SHOP………… 20 MOOSE UTILITY……………………… 5

TRIJICON…………………………… 19 TRINITY RANCH LAND…………… 32 TROPHY BLINDS…………………… 32 TROPHY TOTES…………………… 24 TRU-GLO…………………………… 11 TWISTERS RANCH………………… 20 WALKER'S GAME EAR………………… 7 WEATHERBY FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL…………………… 32 WESTERN HILL COUNTRY REALTY… 28 WILDCAT CREEK RESORT………… 18 YOUR TARGET……………………… 11

Bringing

&Credible

THE MOST TIMELY

HUNTING AND FISHING

news

Texans

to

SINCE 2004

Lone Star Outdoor News, ISSN 2162-8300, a publication of Lone Star Outdoor News, LLC, publishes twice a month.

A mailed subscription is $30 for 24 issues. Newsstand copies are $2, in certain markets copies are free, one per person. Copyright 2016 with all rights reserved. Reproduction and/or use of any photographic or written material without written permission by the publisher is prohibited. Subscribers may send address changes to: Lone Star Outdoor News, P.O. Box 551695, Dallas, TX 75355 or email them to news@lonestaroutdoornews.com.

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Are you looking for a dove hunt this season? The Texas dove season is longer this year, a full 90 days. Thanks to our friends at the Texas Dove Hunters Association, below is a list of outfitters in each zone of Texas. Be sure to tell the outfitter you saw their name in the Lone Star Outdoor News' Texas Hunting Annual. Enjoy the season!

Texas Dove Breckenridge Brad Mullen (214) 454-4499 Ogallala Outdoors Lubbock Milo Ben Fournier (214) 577-4745 Poetry Shooting Club Terrell (214) 728-2755 Swamp Nasty Outfitters Lamar & Fannin County Jace Outlaw (903) 640-3685

ALL SEASONS FEEDERS………… 25

CHAMPION RANCH………………… 34

Deer, dove and ducks

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

YT Ranch Dove Hunts Andrews (432) 631-9276 Avian Skies Edna (361) 235-0100 Greystone Castle Sporting Club Mingus (800) 399-3006 Kent Outdoors Lake Texoma (903) 271-5524 DWE Hunt Club Denton (682) 999-4693 Flying P Outdoors Hico (254) 796-4034 The Nooner Ranch Hondo Chris Keller (830) 931-7256 Mark Roberts Dove Hunting Central and South Zones Uvalde Mark Roberts (830) 261-9467 Down South Adventures Uvalde/Zavala/Medina Counties Central and South Zones Jason (830) 741-1717 TC Outfitters Castroville (210) 264-8518 4R Ranch Hondo Deryl or Jill McKinnerney (830) 426-3035 Joshua Creek Ranch Boerne (830) 537-5090 Coastal Prairie Outdoors, LLC. Central and South zones Waller and Eagle Lake John Wright (979) 229-5058 Rocky Creek Retrievers Central and South zones Brenham and El Campo (361) 785-2191 Stone Yard Dove Hunt Medina County; Hondo Bobby (210) 415-4731 The Wildlife Ranch Mason (325) 347-8808 Shirley Ranch Johnson City (830) 868-7109

Bader Ranch Hondo (830) 426-6453 Lonestar Premier Outdoors New Braunfels CJ (800) 587-5756 Central Texas Dove Hunts Johnson City Kemp Elliott (512) 799-5740 Rocking L Outfitters Waller Capt. Chris (832) 208-6244 Xtreme Outdoors Uvalde Josh Greenwalt (830) 486-5518 Texas Hunting Headquarters Kerrville Dennis Kneese (830) 739-5484 South Hills Ranch Hondo Bill Watson (830) 966-2369 ATTT Outfitters Rio Medina, Castroville & Hondo Alidor Thienpont (830) 426-6540 Action Outdoors Adventures Hondo Richard or Kevin (830) 741-0696 Indian Creek Guide Service Comanche (325) 356-2364 Triple D Guide Service Alvin and Danbury Dennis White (979) 864-6942 Texas Hunting Safaris San Marcos George or Steve (512) 618-3390 Executive Outfitters Coleman (325) 625-4111 Honest Tom’s Guide Service Brownwood, Coleman (214) 207-8871 Mossyback Ranch Cameron Lee Kusak (979) 993-0502

Wilson Whitetail and Wing Shooting Ranch Frio County Craig Wilson (210) 602-4531 DEA Ranch Mathis Jonathan (361) 249-1157 InFlight Outfitters Mathis (361) 960-3556 J3 Outfitters Medina County Jennifer (512) 225-6148 WingSport Depot Henrietta, TX Ed (214) 663-1832 Double H Outfitters La Coste (210) 535-2739 Katzfey Dove Ranch George West Mark Katzfey (361) 362-8334 Picosa Paloma Ranches Floresville Charlie Ammann (512) 983-1615 Feathers and Sheds Unlimited Outdoors, LLC. Sealy and Kingsville Josh Hartwick (281) 658-2942 Cochina Hunting Club La Salle, Dimmit, Webb counties (210) 215-1837 Double L Dove Hunt Knippa Larry Langer (830) 261-1921 La Media Lodge Linn Kris Kallina (956) 369-0048 Hunting Etc. Uvalde Tony Arce (830) 275-9532 Falcon Point Ranch Seadrift (361) 785-2191 Casa Monte Lodge Carrizo Springs (830) 854-0810 Los Girasoles Brownsville (956) 572-1640

Paloma Pachanga Hondo (210) 865-1423

Chris Crocker Outfitting Sabinal Chris (281) 787-3783

Pan Dulce Ranch Encinal Bob Voss (830) 660-6744

Deer Down Outfitters Castroville, Pearsall, Carrizo Springs (210) 422-3210

Woods Wildlife Metroplex to Abilene Jerry Woods (903) 816-0405

Sandy Oaks Ranch Devine Foard Houston (210) 415-4401

Four Seasons Ranch Pearsall Kevin Kubeczka (713) 466-7077

Q2 Ranch Charlotte Clay Knipp (972) 839-5985

May Ranch Beeville (361) 358-9977

777 Ranch Hondo (830) 426-3476

NNNN (4N) Paisano Ranch San Angelo Kevin Tims (325) 716-0319

Max Out Guide Service Katy Nick Kissamis (832) 964-8688

Double T Outfitters Uvalde Bret Ferguson (210) 413-1597

3 Curl Outfitters South of DFW to Italy Brett Jepsen (214) 455-0940

Kinney Farms Bexar, Medina, Karnes, Atascosa and Frio Counties (210) 260-3355

Lone Oak Outfitters Sanger (940) 390-6287

Real Outfitters Eden and Ft. McKavett Josh Pond (210) 422-6002

Lone Star Outdoor News

Texas Dove Hunter Concan (830) 279-3929

Y Bar Ranch Tilden Steven (830) 373-4452

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016 LONE STAR.indd 1

Lone Star Outdoor News

|5 7/26/16 10:22 AM

Leupold Helps You Save This Season Just in time for hunting season, Leupold is offering a $50 rebate on all VX-1 and Mark AR MOD1 riflescopes. This promotion is running from August 10-October 2 and is available to residents of the United States and Canada.

The Leupold VX-1 riflescope line combines classic Leupold Gold Ring ruggedness and dependability at an affordable price. The VX-1 features lead-free, precision ground and polished lenses, coated with Leupold’s exclusive Multicoat 4 lens coatings, which provide unbeatable resolution, clarity and contrast.

The VX-1 lens system delivers dependable target acquisition in any light conditions—including dawn, dusk, or bad weather.

Leupold also improved the mechanical function of the VX-1, installing finger-adjustable, 1/4-MOA click windage and elevation adjustments that allow quick and easy zeroing and easy adjustment in the field. The power selector ring incorporates a tactile indicator, making it easy to grasp and turn, even while wearing gloves. A fast-focus eyepiece with a low-profile lock ring makes reticle focus easy to achieve and maintain. Leupold VX-1 riflescopes are oxygen-purged and nitrogen-filled for decades of waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance in the field. Like all Leupold Gold Ring products, the Leupold VX-1 series is protected by the Leupold Gold Ring Full Lifetime Guarantee.

Delivering elite performance and daylight-capable illumination at an affordable price, Leupold Mark AR

LEUPOLD /

MOD 1 illuminated riflescopes are the ideal choice for your AR-15, Modern Sporting, or precision bolt-action rifle. Featuring Green FireDot reticle illumination, the push-button design minimizes bulk, while allowing users to select between six intensity settings. The readily available CR-2032 coin-cell battery produces remarkable runtimes, thanks to Motion Sensor Technology (MST), which automatically deactivates illumination after five minutes of inactivity, yet reactivates instantly as soon as any movement is detected. Multicoat 4 lens coatings create bright, clear images across the entire visual field, while the lockable fastfocus eyepiece provides a generous eyebox and optimal diopter adjustment. A large, tactile power selector makes for easy magnification adjustments regardless of shooting position, while the .1 mil windage and elevation adjustments feature tactile and audible clicks. The elevation dial features bullet drop compensation calibrated to common 55-grain .223/5.56 ballistics. Additional dials can be ordered through the Leupold Custom Shop to match almost any ballistic profile. The Mark AR MOD 1 is completely waterproof, fogproof and shockproof, and is backed by the legendary Leupold Gold Ring Full Lifetime Guarantee.

So if you’re in the market for a new scope this season, head on down to your local Leupold dealer and check out the VX-1 and Mark AR MOD 1 line of riflescopes. Start saving today!

LEUPOLD.COM

Walker’s New Razor-XV with Bluetooth While hunting or shooting, ear protection is a must, but hunters and shooters struggle with hearing conversations or the sounds made by incoming animals. Now, with Walker’s Razor-XV Earbud Headset, they can do both, or even take a phone call.

More than 25 years ago, Bob Walker introduced the original Walker’s Game Ear and revolutionized hearing protection and enhancement. Now, Walker’s introduces the entirely new Razor-XV Earbud Headset for 2016 in a striking new design that features Bluetooth technology.

The Razor-XV incorporates a neckworn device featuring retractable digital ear buds that provide incredible comfort for all-day shooting. The “behind the neck” design allows for zero interference with you or your firearm, allowing for complete focus on your target. These remarkable patent-pending buds will not only protect your hearing, but enhance up to nine times your natural hearing ability as well. Utilizing a Sound Activated Compression circuit (SAC) the Razor XV features a no-fail system for protecting your ears from harmful noises such as muzzle blast, and will actually reduce overall sound output by an impressive 31dB. The Hi Gain omni-directional microphones provide clear sound 6|

Razor-XV features: • • • • • • •

Bluetooth Technology Retractable Digital Ear buds 31dB NRR Sound Activated Compression (SAC) Powered by Rechargeable LIPO battery 250mAH battery for 10 hours of use Hi Gain omnidirectional microphones for clear sound enhancement HD speakers in the ear buds for wide range audio quality

enhancement for conversations on the range or to hear firearm instructors’ directions while training. The HD digital speakers provide a wide range audio quality. Now featuring Bluetooth, you can stream your favorite music, or even take a phone call, all while protecting yourself from the harmful effects of muzzle blast. The Razor XV also features independent volume control between the microphone and Bluetooth feed.

In a hunting scenario, you can quietly listen to music, stream a sports game,

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

• •

• • • • •

Includes 3 pairs of 12mm foam tips (S/M/L) and two pairs of 16mm coated foam tips (M/L) Auto-Shut Off (low power mode) after 4 to 6 hours. Timer resets and unit wakes after any button is pressed Integrated Micro USB port AC wall adapter with USB port and included 1 meter micro USB cord for charging Storage case Included Patent pending MSRP: $159.99

or take a phone call and not miss out on anything running in.

The kit includes two different styles of noise-reducing foam tips in a variety of sizes to ensure a proper fit for maximum noise reduction. The Razor-X is equipped with an auto-shut off (low power mode) after 4 to 6 hours. An AC wall adapter with USB port and a 1-meter micro USB cord is provided for convenient charging.

Lone Star Outdoor News

WALKER'S GAME EAR WALKERSGAMEEAR.COM

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

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Clean birds quicker with Cowboy’s Wild Game Washer The best part of your hunting and fishing trips come when you are doing what you love — bagging a limit of birds or catching the big fish. Cleaning the game may be the least favorite part of these trips.

That’s why Cowboy’s Wild Game Washer was invented. It cleans quicker and easier so you can hunt, fish and play longer.

Cowboy’s Wild Game Washer revolutionizes the game-cleaning process by floating and flushing away feathers, scales, blood and debris. This sports bucket easily reduces the drudgery of cleaning wild game and saves time while providing a superior cleaning. No more washing game by hand, one dove breast at a time, and no more mess in the sink.

The Game Washer can wash almost anything. It was invented for cleaning birds like dove, quail, ducks and pheasant, but it also does a great job of washing fish, crawfish, deer or hog quarters and even vegetables or golf balls. If it fits, you can bet the Game Washer can get it clean.

To get going, simply remove the lid, attach a standard water hose to the connection port on the rear side of the bucket, and turn on the water. Next, drop your breasted birds or fish fillets into the bucket. The patented riser begins to fill the bucket, spraying precise jets of water to cause a fast-moving vortex that spins and tumbles the game around. The water will soon flow over the top, flushing out all the loose feathers, scales, blood and other unwanted debris. The longer the water runs, the clearer it will become. Depending on the type of game and the amount of blood or debris that needs to be removed, the washing process should take anywhere from two to five minutes. Once the water clears, simply remove the clean fish or game and you will find that it has cooled to water temperature and is ready for the freezer or the grill.

Cowboy’s Wild Game Washer is made in the USA and is family owned and operated. It makes a great gift and is a perfect addition to your equipment arsenal. It is now available in hundreds of locations across Texas and the USA. Find one in a local store near you or visit our website for a list of retailers.

COWBOY’S WILD GAME WASHER / ☎ (832) 600-7420 /

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HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

GAMEWASHER.COM

Lone Star Outdoor News

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

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New G34 Pro from Stealth Cam

If you’re ready to invest in your own Texas hideaway, we can help you get there. Over the past 100 years, Heritage Land Bank has financed thousands and thousands of Texas acres, one customer at a time.

From financing the land itself to almost anything you can put on it, a Heritage lender is ready to show you the way. If you’re ready to buy, let’s get started.

Finan cing the

Wide-Open Space

s

G34 Pro FEATURES

The easiest way to get here is with a Heritage lender.

Stealth Cam, introduced in 2000, quickly became the leader in scouting camera innovation. Continuing to advance technology to the next level, Stealth Cam introduces the new G34 Pro, with 12 megapixel images and HD video recording.

The G34 Pro is 10 percent smaller in size than the original G series and features a textured housing with rub to help blend in with its surroundings. An adjustable PIR sensor allows the camera to sense out to 100 feet, as well as security mode with SD card overwriting.

Security mode ensures your card will never fill up and stop working, rather retaining the most recent information the SD card capacity can hold.

The G Pro series features the same easy-to-use interface with a digital LCD screen that reads out to you exactly what setting your camera is set to, so there is no guesswork involved. Now shipping with preset date and time, you don’t have to worry about forgetting to set your date/time, and can eliminate one step of the set-up process.

The G Pro series retains the Matrix Advanced Blur Reduction technology. This allows the user to choose from two settings at night. Standard mode is chosen for optimal image quality when placed over an area where you know the subject will be stationary (feeders, small waterholes, scrapes, etc.). Advanced mode is chosen for the most usable images in areas with more movement such as food plots, trails, gate crossings or roads. By choosing advanced mode, you will lose some illumination range at night (approximately 15 percent) but you will always be able to tell what your subject is. Serious hunters agree a non-blurry image of that big buck is much better than blurry, unidentifiable antlers and body.

Get the images every hunter dreams to see in the field with the G34 Pro by Stealth Cam. This camera can be purchased at major sporting goods retailers and pro shops, as well as online retailers.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

844.404.5263 • HeritageLandBank.com/Outdoor EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

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STEALTH CAM ☎ (877) 269-8490 GSMOUTDOORS/STEALTH-CAM

NMLS# 408898

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Triad Armed 12 Megapixel HD Video recording 5-180 seconds w/ audio Time-Lapse with PIR Override 10% Smaller than G Series PIR Adjustable range Security Mode (rewrite SD memory) Reflex Trigger-.5 seconds 34 IR Low Glow Emitters Intuitive backlit menu programming Matrix Advanced Blur Reduction Retina Low Light Sensitivity 16:9 Wide Image Ratio Quick Set preprogrammed option Burst Mode 1-9 images per triggering 5-59 sec/1-59 min recovery time-out Time/ Date/ Moon Phase/ Temperature/ Name Stamp GEO-TAG GPS Tagging Manual Shot capability Secure lock password protection SD Card slot up to 32GB Test Mode Video & USB output Operated on 8 AA batteries External power jack for 12V battery box Active time setting Multilingual (English/French/German/Spanish) Preset Time & Date (CST) MSRP: $169.99

Lone Star Outdoor News

Dove hunt the top flyway

THE WORLD’S BEST HANDGUN SIGHTS

spots opening day, weekend

Tom Stephenson of Honest Tom’s Guiding Service is usually fully booked by now, but after having to turn away customers last year, they gathered more top accommodations and plenty of dove fields. This is the year you can get in on an opening-day or even opening weekend hunt in some of the best dove-hunting areas in Texas, near Brownwood and Coleman.

Hunts begin from a beautiful lodge with private rooms and unparalleled service starting with scouting and continuing on to our superior cooks.

Superb vittles featuring a homemade Mexican buffet the night before the opener, a cowboy breakfast after the morning hunt, sandwiches before heading back out, a steak dinner opening night and breakfast burritos in the field the following morning.

Bird-cleaning and supplies will be available both at the lodge and in the field for the hunters’ convenience.

Want to hunt later in the season?

Honest Tom, in his 29th year of outfitting dove hunters, has eight spots available September 16-18, and, because of a cancellation, the full lodge (24 spots) is available September 23-25. In October, spots are available the weekends of October 7, 14 and 21. A weekday event also can be scheduled for 20 or more.

Each of the two-day hunts cost $600 per person.

HONEST TOM’S GUIDING SERVICE ☎ (214) 207-8871 BLASTANDCAST@SBCGLOBAL.NET

TRITIUM FIBER-OPTIC XTREME TECHNOLOGY

DAY/ NIGHT SIGHTS

When the pressure is on you have to be strong. TFX sights are hermetically sealed and virtually indestructible. With the world’s best Swiss tritium combined with bright fiber optics, TFX is ready 24/7.

Scan for video

WHEN BRIGHTNESS COUNTS™

WWW.TRUGLO.COM HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

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2016-2017 hunting season dates ALLIGATOR

GOOSE

22 Counties & special properties All Other Counties

East Zone

Sep. 10 - 30 Apr. 1 - June 30

CHACHALACA Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr & Oct. 29 - Feb. 26 Willacy Counties

DOVE North Zone Central Zone South Zone Special White-winged Dove Area

Sep. Dec. Sep. Dec. Sep. Dec. Sep. Sep. Dec.

1 - Nov. 13 & 17 - Jan. 1 1 - Nov. 6 & 17 - Jan. 8 23 - Nov. 13 & 17 - Jan. 23 3, 4, 10, 11; 23 - Nov. 9 & 17 - Jan. 23

DUCK North Zone Regular Season Dusky duck Youth-Only South Zone Regular Season Dusky duck Youth-Only

Nov. 12 - 27 & Dec. 3 - Jan. 29 Nov. 17 - 27 & Dec. 3 - Jan. 29 Nov. 5 - 6 Nov. 5 - 27 & Dec. 10 - Jan. 29 Nov. 10 - 27 & Dec. 10 - Jan. 29 Oct. 29 - 30

HIGH PLAINS MALLARD MANAGEMENT UNIT (HPMMU) Regular Season Dusky duck Youth-Only

GALLINULE, RAIL, MOORHEN

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Oct. 29 - 30 & Nov. 4 - Jan. 29 Nov. 7 - Jan. 29 Oct. 22 - 23 Sep. 10 - 25 & Nov. 5 - Dec. 28

Canada goose Light goose Light goose conservation order White-fronted goose West Zone Light & dark geese Light goose conservation order

Sep. 10 - 25 & Nov. 5 - Jan. 29 Nov. 5 - Jan. 29

Dec. 3 – Jan. 1 Oct. 1 - 9

WHITE-TAILED DEER

Jan. 30 - Mar. 19 Nov. 5 - Jan. 29 Nov. 5 - Feb. 5 Feb. 6 - Mar. 19 Oct. 1 - Feb. 26 Sep. 1 – Aug. 31

MULE DEER General Season Panhandle SW Panhandle Trans-Pecos Archery Season

Nov. 19 - Dec. 4 Nov. 19 - 27 Nov. 25 - Dec. 11 Oct. 1 - Nov. 4

PHEASANT Panhandle

PRONGHORN ANTELOPE QUAIL Statewide

RABBITS & HARES SANDHILL CRANE Zone A Zone B Zone C

Oct. 29 - Feb. 26 No closed season Oct. 29 - Jan. 29 Nov. 18 - Jan. 29 Dec. 17 - Jan. 22

SQUIRREL East Texas Other Open Counties Special Youth Season

Oct. 29 - Feb. 12 Sep. 10 - 25

Rio Grande Turkey Fall Season North Zone South Zone Brooks, Kenedy, Kleberg & Willacy counties Archery-Only Fall Youth-Only Early Late Spring Season North Zone South Zone One-turkey counties Spring Youth-Only North Zone South Zone Eastern Turkey Spring Season East Texas

JAVELINA North Zone South Zone

SNIPE TEAL TURKEY

Oct. 1 - Feb. 26 & May 1 - 31 Sep. 1 - Aug. 31 Sep. 24 - 25

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

General Season North Zone South Zone Special Late Season North Zone South Zone Youth-Only Seasons Early Season Late Season Archery Season Muzzleloader-Only

WOODCOCK

Nov. 5 - Jan. 1 Nov. 5 - Jan. 15 Nov. 5 - Feb. 26 Oct. 1 - Nov. 4 Oct. 29 - 30 Jan. 2 - 15 Apr. 1 - May 14 Mar. 18 - Apr. 30 April 1 - April 30 Mar. 25 - 26 & May 20 - 21 Mar. 11 - 12 & May 6 - 7

Apr. 15 - May 14

Nov. 5 - Jan. 1 Nov. 5 - Jan. 15 Jan. 2 - 15 Jan. 16 - 29 Oct. 29 - 30 Jan. 2 - 15 Oct. 1 - Nov. 4 Jan. 2 - 15 Dec. 18 - Jan. 31

*Check TPWD for additional seasons, bag limits

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

| 13

A destination without equal

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 without being restricted by score. It is an exclusive chance to hunt for the whitetail of your dreams. Last year’s results include a giant 301-inch deer taken by rifle. This year Greystone is looking forward to topping last year’s average of 250 inches.

As the Orvis 2015 Wingshooting Lodge of the Year, Greystone has mastered the art of bird hunting. The popular mixed bag hunt includes quail, pheasant, chukkar 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 hone 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 Texas plains and thrive in the Southern climate. Breeding herds of axis deer, aoudad sheep, blackbuck antelope, Sika and fallow deer mean there are plenty of trophies to be taken. A potential new SCI World Record Grant’s Gazelle was recently taken! (Scoring by SCI pending.)

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 80acre Thurber Lake, every type of fishing opportunity exists. Kayaks and paddleboards let you go off on your own adventure or pontoon boats sneak you to the honey holes.

What appeals to all visitors to Greystone are its top-of-the-line accommodations and gourmet meals.

Guests enjoy 26 private rooms, gourmet dining from our executive chef, conference facilities, and a swimming pool with hot tub. Along with this is the newly constructed 2,600-square-foot pavilion facility with 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.

GREYSTONE CASTLE / ☎ (800) 399-3006 /

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HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

GREYSTONECASTLE.COM

Texas Hospitality in an Extraordinary Setting Texas Hospitality in an Extraordinary Setting

Whether you are looking for world class Bird Hunting, Trophy Whitetail Deer or super opportunities, Castle combines luxurious Whether youExotic are looking for world Greystone class Bird Hunting, Trophy Whitetail Deer or super Exotic opportunities, Greystonein Castle combines luxurious accommodations with Texas hospitality an extraordinary setting. accommodations with Texas hospitality in an extraordinary setting.

Contact us today for more information regarding our rates and packages.

Contact us today for more information regarding our rates and packages.

P.O. BOX 158

P.O. BOX 158

MINGUS, TX 76463

MINGUS, TX 76463

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

800.399.3006

800.399.3006 | 15

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HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

A new kind of camo from SixSite Stephen Holley of Dallas was a Navy SEAL frogman, with two deployments in Southeast Asia and two more in Iraq. He also is an avid hunter.

After serving his country, he put his knowledge learned as a SEAL to work, taking three years to develop new apparel products for hunting at SixSite Hunting Gear, the company he founded.

“In a SEAL team, most guys know their way around a sewing machine,” he said.

“They move pockets around and adapt their equipment to different situations.”

SixSite makes premium camo apparel, all in the U.S. “Most of what I saw was focused on western, backcountry hunting,” Holley said. “This line is extremely versatile. It’s lightweight and moisture-wicking, made to handle the Texas dove season and early-season bowhunting — you can wear it in October in Texas and not burn up.”

The camo pattern, called RANA, is digitally based, but doesn’t look like it.

“I grew up and served in dozens of patterns,” Holley said. “The trend is toward digital camo, but most look like a computer spit it out. I wanted to create a digital-based pattern, but that could be traced back to an organic foundation.”

Holley sent his designer close-up images of a frog, showing the contrast and features of the frog’s skin.

“We overlayed other elements and came up with the pattern,” he said. “The pattern is seven layers with six colors. It works as well in the Texas Brush Country

as it does in the mountains.”

Products available now include the Gunnison Soft Shell jacket and pant, South San Juan insulated jacket, Clear Creek lightweight pant and base layers, and additional products, including the camo pattern in a brown foundation and a waterproof, breathable jacket will be available in a few months.

“The jacket has features that don’t exist in the market today,” Holley said.

SixSite has a mobile store, and sales have exceeded expectations at private events and trade shows.

The colors? A perfect blend of greens, grays and browns, and, fittingly, red, white and blue.

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HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

| 17

At Wildcat Creek, it’s a quail and pheasant hunting adventure Quail and pheasant hunters need not travel far to experience a memorable hunt, luxurious facilities and fabulous food. Wildcat Creek Quail Hunting Resort has birds at the ready — where a memorable quail or pheasant hunting adventure awaits.

For wingshooters who favor the pheasant, full pheasant hunts are being offered this year.

WCR, a family affair and the vision of Ron and Evonne Parker and their sons, sports a new lodge and an atmosphere that is truly family-oriented.

“We want the experience to be firstclass but yet not stuffy,” said owner Ron Parker.

Located in Red River County near Detroit, the property consists of 1,200plus acres of well-managed land that will take hunters back in time.

The habitat, birds and dogs are first-rate, with fields cleared out of the thick woods by Parker, who also owns a construction business.

“And we have cleared saplings in several areas to offer hunters a true Georgia-style quail hunt with tough shots through the trees,” Ron said.

“Our customers love it.”

Wingshooters may want to get their hunts booked, though, as the word is getting out about Wildcat Creek, where 10 weekends are already fully booked

18 |

for the upcoming season.

Several flight pens allow for flight training for the pen-raised birds, and the birds are released before the beginning of the season.

“We want the birds to be as wild as possible and explode out of the grass,” Ron said.

After the hunt, the new lodge and the food served at WCR may be even more memorable.

WCR also has added competitionstyle sporting clay station for parties and corporate events.

Brilliant Aiming solution for hunters Trijicon is renowned for providing big game hunters with superior quality illuminated optics that shine in any scenario. The new AccuPower riflescope series may be the perfect scope for your next big game pursuit.

The AccuPower series is designed for versatility with variable power offerings of 1-4x24, 2.5-10x56, 3-9x40 and 4-16x50. Integrating aircraft-grade aluminum housing, superior quality glass lenses and advanced application-specific red or green illuminated reticles, the AccuPower riflescope offers you the durability and dependability expected from Trijicon.

The AccuPower line features anti-reflective multicoated lenses that provide superior clarity and light gathering capabilities. Adjustable reticle brightness settings are intuitive and easy-to-set, offering 11 brightness adjustments with an “Off” feature between each brightness setting — all powered by a long-lasting CR2032 battery.

The AccuPower line and the complete array of Brilliant Aiming Solutions are perfect for the hunting, shooting, military and law enforcement markets.

WILDCAT CREEK QUAIL HUNTING RESORT ☎ (903) 674-2000 WCRQUAILHUNTING.COM

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

TRIJICON, INC. ☎ (248) 960-7700 TRIJICON.COM

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Lone Star Outdoor News

| 19

DU youth programs page way for future Ducks Unlimited understands the importance of habitat conservation and leaving a legacy of skies filled with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Since its start in 1937, DU has conserved more than 13.6 million acres across North America, and with help from volunteers of all ages, that number will continue to grow.

DU’s Greenwing program began in the 1970s and includes members 11 years old and younger. More than 100 Greenwing events are hosted across the country each year by local DU volunteers and include such activities as kayaking, archery, fishing, waterfowl identification and much more. The events include a Greenwing membership for each youth in attendance valued at $15, in addition to food, games and prizes.

The DU Varsity program engages high school students in conservation education and encourages them to become good stewards by giving back to the resource through DU’s conservation mission. DU Varsity events raise money for conserving, restoring and managing waterfowl habitat in North America in a fun and educational atmosphere.

High school students from across the country are volunteering to start Varsity chapters for many different reasons. J.T. Walsh, from Charlotte, N.C., helped start his school’s chapter three years ago.

“I originally became involved because I had a lot of friends who volunteered in the Raleigh area, so I tried to find a chapter near me,” Walsh said. “I'd say it has also inspired me to stay involved and active with DU. I will be attending North Carolina State University this fall and I can’t wait to join the DU chapter there.

Communication skills, networking and managing a budget are just a few of the things I've learned through volunteering for DU.” One of the strongest DU youth initiatives is Ducks University, DU’s collegiate chapter program. The first university chapter was formed in 1985 at the University of Texas at Austin. Since then the collegiate program has grown to more than 100 chapters in 32 states.

This past year Ducks University chapters raised more than $1.4 million for DU’s conservation mission.

These chapters offer students and their respective college or university the unique opportunity to learn the importance of habitat conservation in a fun setting that engages the entire community.

Students who volunteer for Ducks University chapters have the opportunity not only to learn about wetland conservation but also to build relationships with other collegiate volunteers from across the country and become a part of something bigger than themselves.

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HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

Jace Klein, DU chapter president at Iowa State University, was involved with his university chapter for three-and-a-half years.

“The biggest skills DU taught me were time management, communication, and organization,” Klein said. “There is a lot that goes into a banquet. Simple things like keeping track of donors and contacts from year to year were key. I would say it definitely prepared me for my job in that respect.”

DU understands the importance of engaging youth. By giving volunteers the resources they need, we can continue the legacy that our fathers and grandfathers handed down to us: a love for DU, and a chance to ensure that future generations will have the same opportunities to enjoy this great resource, just as we have.

DUCKS UNLIMITED YOUTH PROGRAMS ☎ (901) 758-3892 MHOROBETZ@DUCKS.ORG

To date, Ducks Unlimited has conserved

To learn more about how to start or join

over 13 million acres of waterfowl habitat.

a DU chapter at your high school, please

Our Varsity chapters play an important role

visit www.ducks.org/varsity or contact DU

in our mission of conservation all while

Manager of Youth & Education Programs

making friends and having a good time.

Mark Horobetz at 901-758-3892.

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

| 21

sunrise/sunset 2016-2017 SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

DAY

RISE

SET

RISE

SET

RISE

SET

RISE

SET

RISE

SET

RISE

SET

RISE

SET

RISE

SET

RISE

SET

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

7:01 7:02 7:02 7:03 7:04 7:04 7:05 7:05 7:06 7:07 7:07 7:08 7:09 7:09 7:10 7:10 7:11 7:12 7:12 7:13 7:13 7:14 7:15 7:15 7:16 7:17 7:17 7:18 7:19 7:19

7:51 7:50 7:49 7:48 7:46 7:45 7:44 7:42 7:41 7:40 7:38 7:37 7:36 7:34 7:33 7:32 7:30 7:29 7:28 7:26 7:25 7:24 7:22 7:21 7:19 7:18 7:17 7:15 7:14 7:13

7:20 7:21 7:21 7:22 7:23 7:23 7:24 7:25 7:25 7:26 7:27 7:28 7:28 7:29 7:30 7:30 7:31 7:32 7:33 7:34 7:34 7:35 7:36 7:37 7:38 7:39 7:39 7:40 7:41 7:42 7:43

7:11 7:10 7:09 7:08 7:06 7:05 7:04 7:02 7:01 7:00 6:59 6:57 6:56 6:55 6:54 6:53 6:51 6:50 6:49 6:48 6:47 6:46 6:45 6:44 6:42 6:41 6:40 6:39 6:38 6:38 6:37

7:44 7:45 7:46 7:46 7:47 7:48 6:49 6:50 6:51 6:52 6:53 6:54 6:55 6:56 6:57 6:58 6:58 6:59 7:00 7:01 7:02 7:03 7:04 7:05 7:06 7:07 7:08 7:09 7:09 7:10

6:36 6:35 6:34 6:33 6:32 6:31 5:31 5:30 5:29 5:28 5:28 5:27 5:26 5:26 5:25 5:25 5:24 5:24 5:23 5:23 5:22 5:22 5:22 5:21 5:21 5:21 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20

7:11 7:12 7:13 7:14 7:14 7:15 7:16 7:17 7:17 7:18 7:19 7:20 7:20 7:21 7:22 7:22 7:23 7:23 7:24 7:24 7:25 7:25 7:26 7:26 7:27 7:27 7:27 7:28 7:28 7:28 7:29

5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:20 5:21 5:21 5:21 5:22 5:22 5:22 5:23 5:23 5:24 5:24 5:25 5:25 5:26 5:26 5:27 5:27 5:28 5:29 5:29

7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:29 7:28 7:28 7:28 7:27 7:27 7:27 7:26 7:26 7:25 7:25 7:24 7:24 7:23 7:22 7:22

5:30 5:31 5:32 5:32 5:33 5:34 5:35 5:36 5:36 5:37 5:38 5:39 5:40 5:41 5:42 5:43 5:44 5:45 5:46 5:46 5:47 5:48 5:49 5:50 5:51 5:52 5:53 5:54 5:55 5:56 5:57

7:21 7:20 7:20 7:19 7:18 7:17 7:17 7:16 7:15 7:14 7:13 7:12 7:11 7:10 7:09 7:08 7:07 7:06 7:05 7:04 7:03 7:02 7:01 7:00 6:59 6:58 6:57 6:55

5:58 5:59 6:00 6:01 6:02 6:03 6:04 6:05 6:06 6:07 6:08 6:09 6:10 6:11 6:11 6:12 6:13 6:14 6:15 6:16 6:17 6:18 6:18 6:19 6:20 6:21 6:22 6:23

6:54 6:53 6:52 6:51 6:49 6:48 6:47 6:46 6:44 6:43 6:42 7:41 7:39 7:38 7:37 7:35 7:34 7:33 7:31 7:30 7:29 7:28 7:26 7:25 7:24 7:22 7:21 7:20 7:18 7:17 7:16

6:23 6:24 6:25 6:26 6:27 6:27 6:28 6:29 6:30 6:30 6:31 7:32 7:33 7:33 7:34 7:35 7:35 7:36 7:37 7:37 7:38 7:39 7:40 7:40 7:41 7:42 7:42 7:43 7:44 7:44 7:45

07:14 07:13 07:12 07:11 07:09 07:08 07:07 07:06 07:04 07:03 07:02 07:01 06:59 06:58 06:57 06:56 06:55 06:53 06:52 06:51 06:50 06:49 06:48 06:47 06:46 06:45 06:44 06:43 06:42 06:41

07:46 07:46 07:47 07:48 07:49 07:49 07:50 07:51 07:51 07:52 07:53 07:53 07:54 07:55 07:56 07:56 07:57 07:58 07:58 07:59 08:00 08:01 08:01 08:02 08:03 08:04 08:04 08:05 08:06 08:07

06:40 06:39 06:38 06:37 06:36 06:35 06:34 06:33 06:33 06:32 06:31 06:30 06:29 06:29 06:28 06:27 06:27 06:26 06:26 06:25 06:24 06:24 06:23 06:23 06:22 06:22 06:22 06:21 06:21 06:20 06:20

08:07 08:08 08:09 08:10 08:10 08:11 08:12 08:13 08:13 08:14 08:15 08:16 08:16 08:17 08:18 08:18 08:19 08:20 08:21 08:21 08:22 08:23 08:23 08:24 08:25 08:25 08:26 08:27 08:27 08:28 08:28

Times given above are for Dallas. For other locations, subtract 1 minute per 12 miles east of Dallas, and add 1 minute per 12 miles west of Dallas. The table to the right gies adjustments for some Texas cities. Information provided is teh longitudinal distance from Dallas and the time adjustment for sunrise and sunset.

22 |

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Abilene / 165 miles west / + 14 minutes Alpine / 405 miles west / + 24 minutes Beaumont / 160 miles east / - 13 minutes Corpus Christi / 35 miles west / + 3 minutes Austin / 55 miles west / + 5 minutes

Lone Star Outdoor News

Del Rio / 235 miles west / + 20 minutes El Paso / 555 miles west / - 23 minutes Houston / 170 miles east / - 5 minutes Laredo / 160 miles west / + 14 minutes Lubbock / 280 miles west / + 24 minutes

San Angelo / 215 miles west / + 18 minutes San Antonio / 95 miles west / + 8 minutes Tyler / 75 miles east / - 6 minutes

Purpose-Driven Hunting For years, I hunted while working as an outdoor writer, photographer and videographer. I am emphatically in love with our industry and the wild outdoors.

So, it was no great shock, to me or anyone else, when I elected to “make my mark” in Mansfield, Texas by joining the family at Sightmark.

Joining Sightmark, a place brimming with the fist-full-ofdirt passion I so highly regard, has forced me to revisit my purpose outdoors, and ponder again what compels me to hunt.

Hunting is steeped in heritage, responsibility and commitment and must be shared, respected and protected. Our pursuits offer invaluable opportunities to teach virtually every life lesson to our children and other youth we are in a position to mentor; endeavoring to do so only strengthens the legacies we leave and the legacies they build.

So, my question begs an answer within the contexts of both collective and individual reasoning, spiritual growth and a story greater than us yet untold. As hunters and lovers of all things wild, what purpose can we serve for them and even humanity?

I have discovered those questions have rather simple answers. Hunting, as an invaluable tool, not only enables us to connect with our innate human desire to provide, it strengthens our resolve to

protect those under our dominion and better balances our collective endeavor to conserve.

Hunting and conservation’s next chapter is up to us. Perhaps it comes down to communication after all. We must be the voice for wildlife, telling their stories and ours well, mindful of communication's simple truth: What we say is often not what people hear — or see.

As the father of one who listens, sees and remembers things, the values carved out of us and grafted into the hearts of our children must be sourced from the very bedrock of appreciation for wild spaces and the resources found there, renewable or not.

— Kevin Reese

SIGHTMARK ☎ (817) 225-0310 /

SIGHTMARK.COM

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

| 23

User-safe, eco-friendly gun cleaning Brittney Glaze Avid hunter and host of Destination Whitetail

TRULY ODORLESS GUN CLEANING PRODUCTS

Only Breakthrough® Clean offers the world’s completely odorless, stainfree Military-Grade Solvent containing non-toxic ingredients and lubricants that can withstand extreme temperature variances, so they won’t gum up in cold weather or liquefy in extreme heat. Get the best odorless gun cleaning products to help you stay on top of your game.

Hunt clean. Hunt with Breakthrough® Clean.

Visit breakthroughclean.com or ask your local retailer about Breakthrough® Clean products.

24 |

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Cleaning your guns is now faster and safer than ever, with Breakthrough Clean Technologies lubricants.

The cleaning products eliminate more contaminants than most leading gun cleaners, and provide the ultimate protection, withstanding extreme temperatures and minimizing the frequency of applications.

Better yet, the products are nontoxic and odorless.

Breakthrough Clean Technologies is setting a new trend, and folks are starting to take notice of a list of products that meet hunters’ needs head-on. Using technology developed within the aerospace industry, from the company’s Military-Grade solvent, to their Battle Born lubricants, they have the best balance available. The line of eco-friendly products was designed for heavy use and abuse in the most extreme of environments.

Check with your gun dealer or range for Breakthrough Clean products.

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Lone Star Outdoor News

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Chingon blinds provide comfort, strength The innovations keep coming at All Seasons Feeders. Last year, the Octo blinds were a big favorite. This year, the lower-priced Little and Big Chignon blinds are sure to be another big hit.

“The Chignon have the same quality at a lower price,” said All Season’s Zach Gates. “It still has 2-inch insulation, “Polycool” coating and has all the same and more characteristics of the Octagon blinds we came out with last year.

What’s even better is we were able to get more efficient with our use of materials and lower the cost. This is where ASF continues to excel, bringing high-end products to consumers at an affordable price.”

The Chignons are square with trimmed corners, and have a 240-degree viewing area.

“You can add a window to the door if you want to look out the back of the blind,” Gates said.

While the Octo blinds were shown to be 15 degrees cooler than others in the Texas heat, Gates sought to make the Chignon blinds even cooler.

“We used dual air vents to allow more heat to escape out of the blind,” he said.

“And the thick insulation will keep the blinds warmer in winter, too.”

The Little Chignon measures 5x5

with three 36-inch windows, while the Big Chignon is 7x7, with three 36-inch windows and four bow windows. Both blinds are offered with a 5- or 8-foot tower.

Foam padded gun rests included with each blind fit over the three, 36x12-inch tinted glass windows. Custom shelving can be added for $250, making the shot even steadier.

The setup is easier with the Chignon blinds, Gates said.

“You just have to slide the legs up into the blind frame,” he said. “You still need to use a forklift to pick the blind up. Then you undo two bolts, lower the ladder, put in handrail extensions and it’s done. With a lift, you can set it up in 30 minutes or less.”

The Big Chignon on the 8-foot tower retails for $3,999, while the Little Chignon, the most popular model, costs $2,500.

“It’s the last blind you’ll have to buy,” Gates said.

ALL SEASONS FEEDERS ☎ (800) 841-1720 ALLSEASONSFEEDERS.COM

Deer Blinds Big Chingon

Little Chingon

7’ x 7’ offered on 5ft or 8ft Stand (3) 36” Windows (4) 12” Windows

5’ x 5’ on 5ft stand w/ (3) 36” Windows

To see blind setup videos and more!

facebook.com/AllSeasonsFeeders.com HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

| 25

A summer There is something about an axis deer that appeals to hunters. Perhaps it is the antlers, which can be quite impressive. Or, it could be the colorful hide with all of its spots. Finally, for those who have had the pleasure of eating an axis backstrap steak, it could be the meat.

My first axis hunt was at the JHA Ranch in Live Oak County, a rolling 3,000-acre piece of South Texas property filled with dense brush, during the week in the early part of July — not exactly an ideal time for animal movement. Brett Anderson, the ranch owner, had donated the hunt to the Texas Deer Association Spring Gala in March. At the auction, I raised my hand and was going on an axis hunt.

Guide and ranch manager Patrick Slavinski drove us through the ranch the first evening on the custom-outfitted Jeep, looking for the axis herds. David J. Sams came along to see the ranch and take photos.

A fair number of whitetails and some blackbuck were spotted.

After cooling off in the covered swimming pool and eating a steak dinner at the large, well-equipped lodge, the plan for the morning was laid out.

“We’ll go to a blind in the morning and see some,” Slavinski said.

He was right, but the animals were all young bucks, along with a few whitetails.

During the hot and humid afternoon, we decided to try out some new fishing lures while our guide went to do some ranch chores. Wearing swimming trunks and snake boots, a few minutes after casting into one of the ponds, my phone rang but the call from Slavinski was cut off.

“I bet he saw one,” Sams said.

It rang again.

“Go back to the house and get your gun, I’ll meet you there,” Slavinski said. “Put on some pants, it’s real thick back here.”

We hustled back to the lodge, I threw a pair of camo pants over my swimming trunks and we were off.

“I saw the buck I have been looking for in the area we hunted this morning,” Slavinski said.

Returning to the area, the axis was finally spotted but he moved off. The stalk began, and after maneuvering around and through brush, the shot from shooting sticks finally presented on the 33-inch axis.

Was it the antlers, the hide, or the meat that made the hunt so appealing? Or, seeing new property and learning from an experienced ranch manager and guide?

It was all of the above, not to mention the cook’s incredible, homemade carne guisada we had after the hunt.

Shelby Slavinski, for Lone Star Outdoor News

By Craig Nyhus

axis hunt

Executive retreat for hunters at Ford Family Ranch Nestled in the woods of Franklin County in East Texas sits the Ford Family Ranch, owned

by Rick Ford, who has developed the ultimate hunting ranch for families, friends or corporate entertainment.

“It is now 1,100 acres, and it’s heavily wooded,” Ford said. “It’s probably 70 percent trees with a lot of natural cover. The animals don’t feel as pressured.”

The main hunting emphasis at the ranch is white-tailed deer. Ford is a licensed deer breeder and has spent the past several years improving the genetics on the ranch.

“Last year, we had 14 or 15 bucks topping 200 inches, and a few over 300,” Ford said. “We have a good mix of typical and nontypical deer.”

The ranch also offers exotics, and during any given hunt one may see eight or 10 different species. The exotics include elk, fallow deer, blackbuck antelope, axis, red stag and a variety of rams.

“We hunt in unique blinds or by spot-and-stalk,” Ford said.

The accommodations and service are second-to-none.

Six private cabins can sleep up to six persons each, with queen-sized beds. A 7,000-squarefoot pavilion was added with a full commercial kitchen, seven seating areas, a 14-foot fireplace and 11 televisions to catch football games between hunts.

“It’s the true turnkey experience,” Ford said. “It’s an executive-style hunt.”

Ford’s son, Chris, manages the ranch, along with five full-time employees there for the hunters.

Just 1.5 hours from Dallas’ Love Field and 2.5 hours from DFW International Airport, they will pick up customers in a custom, six-door Excursion with a gun safe in the back. All hunts are fully guided, and animals harvested are skinned, quartered and packed, ready for the trip home, or staff will take the meat to a local processor if desired. A taxidermist will come to the ranch if requested.

“It’s a true executive retreat for hunters,” Ford said.

FORD FAMILY RANCH ☎ (817) 999-9235 FORDFAMILYRANCH.COM

26 |

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

New Archery Training Center at Cinnamon Creek Cinnamon Creek Ranch, the premier archery facility in Roanoke with indoor and outdoor ranges and a large pro shop, has been expanding since it began.

Now, a new Archery Training Center is soon to open.

“We’re building a 20,000-square-foot training center,” said Cinnamon Creek’s Charles Yardlaw. “When it’s done, we’ll be able to get 120 people shooting at the same time. In a tournament, we can do 120 people in a line, and 40 people at 45yard targets.”

The building will be more than an indoor shooting area, though.

“We’ll have an archery arcade with fun things to do, especially for the kids, ”Yardlaw said. “There will be a few Big Shot Target Systems. They look like a regular target, but they run a projection TV-type system. When arrow hits the screen, it pauses the TV so you can see where the shot at the shark that was chasing you on the screen hit.”

The building will have two dedicated birthday rooms for parties, an upstairs meeting room that will seat 250 people for a meeting or 160 for dinner, along with a downstairs meeting room. Next to the building, a landscaped courtyard will be in place.

“It will be great to have that many people shooting at one time,” Yardlaw said.

“Especially for the kids, once you get the young kids turned on, then look out. And we’ll be able to serve our regular archers better without all of the traffic through the Pro Shop.”

The training center is already attracting large events, with the Texas State Indoor Championships scheduled there in February of 2017.

Yardlaw said the target opening date for the training center is September 1.

“It might be closer to October 1 when we get it all finished, though,” he said.

CINNAMON CREEK RANCH ☎ (817) 439-8998 CINNAMONCREEKRANCH.COM

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

dove hunters get involved through TDHA Starting with the launch of, texasdovehunters.com in 2012, Texas Dove Hunters Association has grown significantly and evolved into much more than just a website. With emphasis placed on growing the next generation of hunters and wildlife ambassadors, the youth and educational programs have become a vital part of the mission of TDHA. TDHA’s website is an excellent resource for hunters with listings of day leases and outfitters, dog breeders and trainers, hunting supply stores and environmental practices. Also, Texas Dove Hunters Magazine is produced twice per year.

Youth programs are the heart of the association. An annual scholarship program has awarded more than $12,000 to high school seniors across the state. Our mentor program teaches children to hunt in a one-on-one setting along with their parent. TDHA joined with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to develop a DOVE 101 class, offered to 4-H, FFA and other groups in the state.

TDHA’s habitat improvement program includes education for landowners and public awareness.

TDHA works with landowners to formulate a best practices game plan introducing native grasses and non-

Lone Star Outdoor News

native crops to the area beneficial for dove and other wildlife species.

College and area chapters are being developed throughout Texas.

Chapters exist at Texas A&M and Texas State universities with others planned for 2016-2017. Chapter and area volunteer groups are established in San Antonio, Houston, the Rio Grande Valley, Fort Worth and Uvalde.

TDHA is a member-based association, and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dependent on financial support through the purchase of memberships, merchandise, donations, and the support of TDHA’s annual fundraising events.

TEXAS DOVE HUNTERS ASSOCIATION ☎ (210) 764-1189 TEXASDOVEHUNTERS.COM

| 27

3600 Acres Less than 35mins from IH-10 Hwy Frontage Five Wells Whitetail, Turkey, Hog, Axis, Aoudad, Fallow, Sika, Occasional Elk $2000/acre

28 |

50 Acre to 4000 Acre Prime Hill Country Hunting Ranches 647 Acres End of the Road Large, Low Fenced Neighbors $999,000 118 Acres Turnkey Ranch w House Extensive Water System Huge Neighbor Ranches $295,000

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

75 Acres Easy Access House Axis, Whitetail, Aoudad, Blackbuck, Persian Ibex, Black Hawaiian Rams, Catalina Goats 15 Minutes from Town $325,000

Rockwall Gun Club open for business

The Rockwall Gun Club is excited to announce its official opening. After much anticipation, this 70-acre multi-faceted complex officially opened for business August 1.

The club features a whopping 30 pistol and intermediate ranges, with 25-yard pistol lanes, 30-, 50- to 100-yard intermediate or carbine lanes, and the Dallas area’s most advanced 500-yard long-distance range, featuring targets ranging from 200–500 yards.

This range features technology not seen at any other club in the Dallas area. The use of wireless cameras allows the shooter to check their targets remotely and eliminates the need for long walks downrange.

Other additions to the club include the area’s most premier 18-station sporting clays range set among mature trees and featuring luxurious stone and cedar shooting stands, and a challenging archery range.

“This is a premier club experience like no other in North Texas,” said Sam Wood, the vice president of operations. “Come enjoy our private, family oriented club. It is and will be the best country club experience in the Dallas area.”

Rockwall Gun Club is currently constructing the first of two clubhouses that will feature interior amenities including include a boardroom for classes, a restaurant/ lounge, gunsmith and well-stocked premium gun store and pro shop. Members will enjoy luxuries such as plush leather couches and gun cleaning and concierge services as well.

The Rockwall Gun Club is conveniently located on Hwy. 205, just beyond the Rockwall city limits. The club is accepting founding memberships at a discounted rate, but only for a short while longer. Rockwall Gun Club has a set total level of memberships to ensure safety and privacy.

“The intent of the club is to never feel full and allow for all members to enjoy a private shooting experience.

The Rockwall Gun Club was planned and constructed with safety as a top priority.

Large soil berms can be seen from the entrance to protect against any stray shots, and the 500-yard range has been dug deep into the ground, lessening the sound of rounds downrange.

The Rockwall Gun Club held an opening celebration on August 1 and Amber Woods, the director of membership, is now available for tours with individuals or corporations.

ROCKWALL GUN CLUB ☎ (214) 908-0078 ROCKWALLGUNCLUB.COM

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Now Open!

“The Private Shooting Experience”

At Rockwall Gun Club, all of our members receive VIP treatment and enjoy a level of exclusivity akin to your favorite country clubs and resorts. Members will enjoy a comfortable, relaxing environment with the expectation of privacy and friendly customer service.

All can enjoy high quality products, innovative technologies, world class amenities and refinement not found at public ranges.

www.rockwallgunclub.com For Membership Information

214-908-0078 info@rockwallgunclub.com Lone Star Outdoor News

| 29

Dakota

the ‘Lone Star Outdoor News’ office dog

By Craig Nyhus

David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoors News

Nearly a decade ago, the two young daughters of Lone Star Outdoor News’ founder David J. Sams made a recommendation to their father.

“We think Craig needs a dog,” they told him.

Time passed, and excuses for not taking the leap were made, until April of this year at the CCA banquet at the Frontiers of Flight Museum in Dallas, where a male, yellow lab puppy was up for auction.

“It’s time for you to have a dog,” Sams said. “He’ll be the Lone Star Outdoor News’ office dog.”

“He’ll go too high,” I replied. “Plus, I’m going out of town tomorrow.”

“No more excuses,” Sams said.

The auction proceeded, and the dog was up. Sams moved to the back of the room to pay close attention as the auctioneer sang his song. A few minutes later, he yelled "Sold.”

“Congratulations,” Sams said. “We’ll take care of the dog while you’re gone.”

All of a sudden, we were the center of attention at the banquet.

Owners of dogs from the same breeder came to praise the purchase. Women approached to hold the 8-week-old puppy, making me wish I had done this when I was younger.

Over the past three months, Dakota has been a daily fixture at the office, with plenty of people ready to take him outside for a break, throw the ball a few times for him to retrieve, or supply him with treats. Most of the time, he sleeps in his crate, occasionally getting our attention with his snoring or dreaming, or waits patiently for more attention. When outside, he’ll chase and break apart a blowing magnolia leaf, pick up a stick, or lay in the grass and stretch his growing legs.

Along the shores of White Rock Lake, he shows his love for other dogs and young children, often approaching a wary, young child and laying down so the youngster can tap his head. The other dogs are occasionally annoyed by his enthusiasm.

The semi-tame ducks and geese along the lake? For now, Dakota just looks at them.

Now 5 1/2-months old, Dakota (full name: The Lone Star of North Dakota) has transformed from a fluffy ball of fur to a 40-plus pound, lean and lanky athlete, while most of the puppy behavior remains.

In late July, he spent 10 days in the lake country of Minnesota, where he showed he has the instinctive love of the water, retrieving sticks and occasionally wandering off for a short swim on his own.

The dog is something of a teacher of his master, too. Leaving a shoe, sock or piece of clothing around is a recipe for a grab-andchase. Instead of scolding the dog for doing what he does, it’s better to internally scold the master and restrict his access to the toys only.

Dakota will head off to training soon, and we at Lone Star Outdoor News are hoping he’ll begin his hunting career and make his first dove retrieve in the late season in December or January.

He is one lucky dog, and he will become a great hunter.

One thing is certain. David’s daughters, now both in their 20s, were right.

I needed a dog.

30 |

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

| 31

HDR with Reverse from mud buddy Waterfowl hunters take notice. The Mud Buddy Hyperdrive Reverse (HDR) will get you to those areas others only wish to access. And, you’ll be able to back out!

The HDR is the original electric-shift, reverse mud motor. The HDR quickly and electrically shifts from forward, neutral and reverse with the flick of a switch. It is the easiest mud motor to operate. A high pitch reverse style propeller provides optimum thrust in all conditions especially deep, deep mud.

The HDR has more than 40 exclusive features. These includes the only stainless steel drive tube, stainless steel skeg, Mercury-built 8300 pound power trim, all-aluminum cast 3/8-inch thick outdrive with a five-year warranty, built-in travel lock, four automotive style vibration dampers in the mount and handle for the smoothest drive ever, water-tight upper cast aluminum transmission cover, extremely accessible and easy to use handle end trim and shift controls, a stainless oversized throttle lever and, of course, the most powerful engine option available, the 4400 BPS engine.

The outdrive has the exclusive Mud Buddy patented bearing and seal system that keeps grease in the drive. The seal system’s unique design creates a pressure area that keeps lube in and destructive sand and mud out. The drive system has been in use for over 15 years and is known as the most dependable drive ever built.

MUD BUDDY ☎ (801) 352-8011 MUDBUDDY.COM

66 Acres, Comanche Co. Combination of cultivation and heavy woods with 2 tanks. Potential income property. Plenty of sites to build a home to get-a-way from it all. $211,200

145 Acres, Callahan Co. Hunting, grazing, native grasses, heavily treed, 2 ponds, Little Pecan Bayou runs thru property, electricity and county water available. $326,250

171 Acres, Stephens Co. Beautiful property, 4 tanks, cross fenced, 9 fields 1 with Klein grass, 2 Coastal, water well, electricity on site. $489,259

434 Acres, Coleman Co. 30X40 1BR/1B Bandominium, 2BR/1B Mfg home, 7 acre lake, 5 ponds, 5 blinds, 4 corn feeders, 2 food plots, JD tractor & Jon Boat. Views are all spectacular, prime hunting, teaming with wildlife. $1,500,000

486 Acres, Eastland Co. 5 tanks 3 with fish catfish, bass and crappe, 34 acres in hay produced 118 bailes, wildlife is abundant, 3BR/3B SW with addition of 1594 sq ft, guest quarters, metal shop for travel trailer and cattle pens. $1,628,636

738 Acres, Taylor Co. High Fenced on 3 sides, scenic rolling topography, water well, native trees and grasses, 2 ponds, great hunting, grazing and recreational property. $1,660,500

View more listings at trinityranchland.com 32 |

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

HUNTING TEXAS ANNUAL 2016

Lone Star Outdoor News

| 33

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With a large field of view, Nikon’s legendary optical system, and a well-engineered housing that comfortably conforms to a user’s eyes and hands, Nikon’s PROSTAFF 3S binocular is ideal for hunting, hiking, birdwatching, observing sporting events, and other outdoor activities.

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34 |

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