Blog

Texas is a premier destination for hunters, offering diverse game species and expansive hunting grounds. For enthusiasts in Frisco and beyond, understanding the most popular hunts can enhance your outdoor adventures. Here’s a guide to the top four hunts in Texas, complete with season dates, prime locations, and recommended gear.

? 1. Whitetail Deer Hunting

Whitetail deer hunting is a cherished tradition in Texas, attracting hunters statewide.

Season Dates (2024–2025):

• North Zone (including Frisco): Nov. 2, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025
• South Zone: Nov. 2, 2024 – Jan. 19, 2025
• Archery Only: Sept. 28 – Nov. 1, 2024
• Muzzleloader: Jan. 6 – 19, 2025
• Youth-Only: Oct. 25–27, 2024 & Jan. 6–19, 2025 

Top Hunting Areas:

• South Texas Brush Country: Renowned for trophy bucks.
• Texas Hill Country: High deer densities and scenic landscapes.
• Menard County: Diverse terrain supporting abundant deer populations.  

Recommended Firearms & Ammunition:

• Rifles: Popular choices include .270 Win, .308 Win, and .30-06 Springfield.
• Ammunition: Soft-point or ballistic-tip bullets for effective energy transfer.

? 2. Rio Grande Turkey Hunting

The Rio Grande turkey is prevalent across Texas, offering exciting spring and fall hunting opportunities.

Season Dates (Spring 2025):

• South Zone: Mar. 15 – Apr. 27, 2025
• North Zone: Mar. 29 – May 11, 2025
• East Zone: Apr. 22 – May 14, 2025 

Prime Locations:

• Central Texas: Abundant turkey populations in mixed habitats.
• South Texas: Dense brush provides excellent cover.
• Menard County: Ideal terrain for turkey hunting.  

Recommended Firearms & Ammunition:

• Shotguns: 12 or 20 gauge with full chokes.
• Ammunition: #4, #5, or #6 shot sizes are effective.  

? 3. Feral Hog Hunting

Feral hogs are an invasive species in Texas, and hunting them helps control their population. 

Season: Year-round with no bag limits.

Top Hunting Areas:

• Hays County: Dense woodlands and creeks attract hogs.
• South Texas: Abundant hog populations in varied terrains.  

Recommended Firearms & Ammunition:

• Rifles: .243 Win, .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, and .350 Legend are effective choices.
• Ammunition: Use bullets designed for deep penetration. 

?️ 4. Dove Hunting

Dove hunting is a social and accessible sport, marking the start of the hunting season in Texas.

Season Dates (2024–2025):

• North Zone: Sept. 1 – Nov. 10 & Dec. 20 – Jan. 7
• Central Zone: Sept. 1 – Oct. 27 & Dec. 13 – Jan. 14
• South Zone: Sept. 14 – Oct. 27 & Dec. 13 – Jan. 21 

Popular Hunting Areas:

• Hondo: Known for high dove densities.
• Maverick County: Prime location during dove migration.  

Recommended Firearms & Ammunition:

• Shotguns: 20 or 12 gauge with improved cylinder chokes.
• Ammunition: #7.5 or #8 shot sizes are commonly used.  

? Planning Your Hunt

For those in Frisco and the surrounding areas, numerous public hunting lands are available. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department provides an interactive map to help locate hunting areas:  .

Ensure you have the appropriate licenses and permits before heading out. For more information on hunting regulations and licensing, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s official website.  

Equip yourself with the right gear and knowledge to make the most of Texas’s rich hunting opportunities.