Send us your best whitetail stuff (and don't forget to attach pictures!)
Russell Graves - Believes whitetails shouldn't be photographed in the back of a truck with their tongue hanging out.
Location - Texas
Brian Strickland - Has 369,518 acres of land that you can hunt on. Call him at (555) 281-HUNT.
Location - Colorado
Tony Hansen - Is pretty confident Michigan will release at least 300,000 archers into the woods this fall.
Location - Michigan
Jake Fagan - He's really just here to hang out, so don't mind him.
Location - Georgia
Will Brantley - Loves hunting in a dorag because it makes him look Ramboish. Some may call it Little Man Syndrome.
Location - Tennessee
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Giant Grayson County Buck
Here's a story from KXII TV out of Sherman Texas...
GRAYSON COUNTY, TX -- A Texoma grandmother says she bagged her biggest deer in Grayson County this weekend, and it may be one of the biggest ever killed in the area by a woman.
Joyce Ooten, 60, used her bow to shoot this 19-point-buck over the weekend. Ooten shot the big game on her property, the Refuge Road Archery Range.
Ooten says she and her husband, Donnie, have had a friendly rivalry for some time over who will kill the bigger deer.
Now, she says she's ahead.
"He'd been telling me if you're going to get that deer, you had better get down there and hunt it. I like to hunt in the afternoon, not much on mornings, and he said you better go down there and get it or I'm going to get him. I beat him to it," Ooten says.
Ooten says she will mount the deer on her wall. We're still waiting to hear back from Texas Parks and Wildlife to see if this kill breaks any records.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Sunday, November 8, 2009
On the Move
The rut is coming on near Childress. I photographed this buck this morning at around 8:00am.
When I saw him he was cruising across a foodplot headed from the southwest to the northeast. Less than two hours later, I saw and photographed the same buck from my truck about a mile and a half southwest of where I first saw him and he was again headed from southwest to northeast.
I think I'd be tired.
-Russell in Texas
When I saw him he was cruising across a foodplot headed from the southwest to the northeast. Less than two hours later, I saw and photographed the same buck from my truck about a mile and a half southwest of where I first saw him and he was again headed from southwest to northeast.
I think I'd be tired.
-Russell in Texas
Labels: Russell Graves, Texas
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Texas Trophy Hunters Association Celebrates Texas Hunter Appreciation Month
San Antonio, Texas - Texas Trophy Hunters Association (TTHA) is celebrating hunters during Hunter Appreciation Month! From wildlife conservation to economically supporting our local, state and national communities, hunters take better care of our planet than any other group of people and TTHA wants to say, "Thanks!"
TTHA salutes Texas Governor Rick Perry in his declaration of November 2009 as "Hunter Appreciation Month." Texas is second to none for the total number of anglers and hunters boasting 2.6 million strong. When you include the 341,000 non-resident sportsmen that Texas attracts each year, hunters in the state of Texas generate $4.6 billion for the Texas economy.
Carter Smith, Executive Director Texas Parks and Wildlife Department states, "Texas has long been defined by its rich and unique hunting heritage. With an abundance of game ranging from deer to ducks and quail to turkeys, there is something for every sportsman to enjoy out in our woods and waters. I hope all Texas hunters will make time to go afield this month, and most importantly to take a young person with them. Passing along our proud hunting traditions to future generations is a must for all who value the future of our great outdoors."
"TTHA applauds Governor Perry for his recognition of hunters as conservationists and the positive economic impact of hunting in Texas", states Joe Betar, VP, COO of Texas Trophy Hunters Association. "In addition, TTHA echoes Governor Perry's emphasis on the importance of hunter safety and ethics as taught by instructors across the state."
TTHA will celebrate hunters and the legacy they provide the entire month of November with a Texas-Sized Road Trip. Look for TTHA representatives at BBQs, banquets, dinners, dances and opening weekend events. Every stop along the way, we'll have heaps of FREE gifts for members and/or anyone proudly displaying the TTHA "skull and horns." Now's the time to load up the truck with stickers and decals because if you're proud enough to show off the TTHA logo, we want to say "Thanks for hunting!"
If we don't see you on the road near your favorite hunting camp, please stop by TTHA Headquarters in San Antonio, Texas and have a cup of coffee on us. Show us a valid hunting license and/or your TTHA member card and receive a free gift.
TTHA encourages you to participate in the outdoors during this great month! For more information about Hunter Appreciation Month and to find events in your area, go to www.TTHA.com. You can also read Governor Perry's proclamation.
TTHA salutes Texas Governor Rick Perry in his declaration of November 2009 as "Hunter Appreciation Month." Texas is second to none for the total number of anglers and hunters boasting 2.6 million strong. When you include the 341,000 non-resident sportsmen that Texas attracts each year, hunters in the state of Texas generate $4.6 billion for the Texas economy.
Carter Smith, Executive Director Texas Parks and Wildlife Department states, "Texas has long been defined by its rich and unique hunting heritage. With an abundance of game ranging from deer to ducks and quail to turkeys, there is something for every sportsman to enjoy out in our woods and waters. I hope all Texas hunters will make time to go afield this month, and most importantly to take a young person with them. Passing along our proud hunting traditions to future generations is a must for all who value the future of our great outdoors."
"TTHA applauds Governor Perry for his recognition of hunters as conservationists and the positive economic impact of hunting in Texas", states Joe Betar, VP, COO of Texas Trophy Hunters Association. "In addition, TTHA echoes Governor Perry's emphasis on the importance of hunter safety and ethics as taught by instructors across the state."
TTHA will celebrate hunters and the legacy they provide the entire month of November with a Texas-Sized Road Trip. Look for TTHA representatives at BBQs, banquets, dinners, dances and opening weekend events. Every stop along the way, we'll have heaps of FREE gifts for members and/or anyone proudly displaying the TTHA "skull and horns." Now's the time to load up the truck with stickers and decals because if you're proud enough to show off the TTHA logo, we want to say "Thanks for hunting!"
If we don't see you on the road near your favorite hunting camp, please stop by TTHA Headquarters in San Antonio, Texas and have a cup of coffee on us. Show us a valid hunting license and/or your TTHA member card and receive a free gift.
TTHA encourages you to participate in the outdoors during this great month! For more information about Hunter Appreciation Month and to find events in your area, go to www.TTHA.com. You can also read Governor Perry's proclamation.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Friday, October 30, 2009
Deer Season Prospects Shaping Up With Recent Rains
AUSTIN, Texas - An early and abundant acorn crop, combined with new growth of native vegetation may force Texas deer hunters to stray from supplemental food sources during the 2009-2010 general deer season, which opens Nov. 7.
Reports from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department field biologists indicate above average mast crop production and an early acorn drop. Recent rains across much of the state have also helped generate forb production, adding to the availability of native food sources for deer.
"It's been at least three years since ground moisture has been this good at this time of year," said Mike Krueger, TPWD district wildlife biologist in Kerrville. "It looks like springtime in the Edwards Plateau at this time.
Krueger noted the warm-season plants have put on a final burst of growth and flowers and there is a flush of early growth of cool-season grasses and forbs. That will probably contribute to a slow deer season for hunters, especially early in the season and especially for those hunters that are dependent on hunting over feeders.
"There is an abundance of food sources for deer right now, and deer movements are reduced because they don't have to move as far or as often to keep their bellies full," Krueger added. "Deer don't appear to be coming to feeders as often or as regularly as they would if it were still dry."
The only consolation is that bucks are becoming more active due to the onset of the rut in the Hill Country, so they'll be moving around as they typically do during the rut, regardless of the condition of the range.
Although the range conditions are good to excellent right now, the rains came too late to help with this year's buck antler growth which is probably no better than average throughout the Edwards Plateau region, or with the fawn production that is also no better than average. But if it continues to rain throughout the fall and winter, the stage is being set for better antler growth and fawn production next year.
While recent rains have improved range conditions across much of the state, whitetails in South Texas are battling through an extended stress period that started with last year's rut, according to biologists.
"Last season the rut was later and more spread out than normal and this did not fare well for mature deer," said Daniel Kunz, TPWD biologist in Alice. "By the first of February bucks were extremely drawn down and numerous reports of early antler shedding were occurring; an indication that bucks could be in poor shape. This will likely affect antler quality."
Hunters should expect a reasonable number of 2 1/2 year old bucks and 5 1/2 to 7 1/2 year old bucks as 2002-2004 and 2007 were good fawn production years resulting in good carry over, added TPWD biologist Dustin Windsor in Cotulla.
"Everything's greened up and deer aren't coming to feeders as readily because there's so much forage out there," said Alan Cain, TPWD district wildlife biologist for South Texas. "That might affect hunting success early in the fall but deer will still be there."
Surprisingly, according to Cain, some of the helicopter surveys in the brush country are showing some decent body conditions on bucks and does. Some places have some pretty good deer despite drought conditions. Fawn crops are looking pretty pitiful this year.
One region of the state that is entering the fall hunting season in prime condition is the Panhandle, according to Calvin Richardson, TPWD district biologist in Amarillo.
"The Panhandle deer herds---both mule and whitetail---are in great condition and should go into the fall in great shape," said Richardson. "With harvest being down last year, we should have some older aged bucks carry over into this year's season. My guess is that both mule deer and white-tails are not going to have to move around much to find quality forage, so hunting feeders might not be as productive as in years that we have been dry.
Deer hunters in 52 counties this season will be joining those in 61 existing counties having buck antler restrictions. Legal bucks in those counties are those with at least 1 unbranched antler (e.g., spikes and 3-pointers) or having an inside spread of at least 13 inches.
Newly affected counties include: Anderson, Angelina, Archer, Atascosa, Brazos, Brown, Chambers, Clay, Cooke, Denton, Ellis, Falls, Freestone, Grayson, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hill, Hood, Hunt, Jack, Jasper, Jefferson, Johnson, Kaufman, Liberty, Limestone, Madison, McLennan, Milam, Mills, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Newton, Orange, Palo Pinto, Parker, Polk, Robertson, San Jacinto, Smith, Stephens, Tarrant, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker, Wichita, Wise, and Young.
According to Clayton Wolf, TPWD big game program director, the antler restrictions have significantly improved age structure while maintaining ample hunting opportunity, based on data to date in the 61 counties where the rule is currently in effect.
Hunters should also note whitetail bag limits have changed in several counties across the state. Be sure to check the county listings in the 2009-2010 Outdoor Annual of hunting and fishing regulations for the county hunted.
The department got overwhelming support to increase whitetail bag limits in several areas of the state with growing deer numbers or populations sufficient to support additional hunting opportunity.
The department is increasing the bag limit in most Cross Timbers and Prairies and eastern Rolling Plains counties from three deer (no more than one buck, no more than two antlerless) or four deer (no more than two bucks and no more than two antlerless) to five deer (no more than 2 bucks). Counties affected include: Archer, Baylor, Bell (West of IH35), Bosque, Callahan, Clay, Coryell, Hamilton, Haskell, Hill, Jack, Jones, Knox, Lampasas, McLennan, Palo Pinto, Shackelford, Somervell, Stephens, Taylor, Throckmorton, Wichita, Wilbarger, Williamson (west of IH35), and Young.
In addition, the department is increasing the bag limit from four deer to five deer in Pecos, Terrell, and Upton counties. White-tailed deer densities throughout the eastern Trans-Pecos are very similar to densities on the Edwards Plateau, where current rules allow the harvest of up to five antlerless deer.
Another change increases the bag limit from three deer to five deer (no more than one buck) in selected counties in the western Rolling Plains. Counties affected include: Armstrong, Borden, Briscoe, Carson, Childress, Collingsworth, Cottle, Crosby, Dickens, Donley, Fisher, Floyd, Foard, Garza, Gray, Hall, Hardeman, Hemphill, Hutchinson, Kent, King, Lipscomb, Motley, Ochiltree, Roberts, Scurry, Stonewall, and Wheeler.
The department also opened whitetail hunting in Dawson, Deaf Smith, and Martin counties (three deer, no more than one buck, no more than two antlerless).
Areas of the state having sufficient antlerless deer populations to warrant additional hunting opportunity are getting more doe days this fall. The department is increasing antlerless deer hunting in the following areas:
• from 16 days to full-season either-sex in Dallam, Denton, Hartley, Moore, Oldham, Potter, Sherman and Tarrant counties;
• from 30 days to full-season either-sex in Cooke, Hardeman, Hill, Johnson, Wichita, and Wilbarger counties;
• from four days to16 days in Bowie and Rusk counties;
• from four days to 30 days in Cherokee and Houston counties;
• from no doe days to four doe days in Anderson, Henderson, Hunt, Leon, Rains, Smith, and Van Zandt counties.
The department is also expanding the late antlerless and spike season into additional counties. Counties affected include: Archer, Armstrong, Baylor, Bell (West of IH35), Borden, Bosque, Briscoe, Callahan, Carson, Childress, Clay, Collingsworth, Comanche, Cooke, Coryell, Cottle, Crosby, Denton, Dickens, Donley, Eastland, Erath, Fisher, Floyd, Foard, Garza, Gray, Hall, Hamilton, Hardeman, Haskell, Hemphill, Hill, Hood, Hutchinson, Jack, Johnson, Jones, Kent, King, Knox, Lampasas, Lipscomb, McLennan, Montague, Motley, Ochiltree, Palo Pinto, Parker, Pecos, Roberts, Scurry, Shackelford, Somervell, Stephens, Stonewall, Tarrant, Taylor, Terrell, Throckmorton, Upton, Wheeler, Wichita, Wilbarger, Williamson (West of IH35), Wise, and Young. In Pecos, Terrell, and Upton counties, the season would replace the current muzzleloader-only open season.
In East Texas, the department is establishing a special muzzleloader season in additional counties, lengthening the existing muzzleloader season by five days to be equivalent in length with the special antlerless and spike buck seasons in other counties, and altering the current muzzleloader bag composition to allow the harvest of any buck (not just spike bucks) and antlerless deer without permits if the county has "doe days" during the general season.
New counties affected include: Austin, Bastrop, Bowie, Brazoria, Caldwell, Camp, Cass, Cherokee, Colorado, De Witt, Fayette, Fort Bend, Goliad (North of HWY 59), Goliad (South of HWY 59), Gonzales, Gregg, Guadalupe, Harrison, Houston, Jackson (North of HWY 59), Jackson (South of HWY 59), Karnes, Lavaca, Lee, Marion, Matagorda, Morris, Nacogdoches, Panola, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, Shelby, Upshur, Victoria (North of HWY 59), Victoria (South of HWY 59), Waller, Washington, Wharton (North of HWY 59), Wharton (South of HWY 59), and Wilson.
The department is also adding one additional weekend and 10 additional weekdays in January to the current youth-only season.
The department also established a one buck only, antlerless by permit, nine-day mule deer season for Parmer County, the first ever deer season for that county.
The season concludes in the North Zone on Jan. 3 and the South Zone season ends Jan. 17.
Reports from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department field biologists indicate above average mast crop production and an early acorn drop. Recent rains across much of the state have also helped generate forb production, adding to the availability of native food sources for deer.
"It's been at least three years since ground moisture has been this good at this time of year," said Mike Krueger, TPWD district wildlife biologist in Kerrville. "It looks like springtime in the Edwards Plateau at this time.
Krueger noted the warm-season plants have put on a final burst of growth and flowers and there is a flush of early growth of cool-season grasses and forbs. That will probably contribute to a slow deer season for hunters, especially early in the season and especially for those hunters that are dependent on hunting over feeders.
"There is an abundance of food sources for deer right now, and deer movements are reduced because they don't have to move as far or as often to keep their bellies full," Krueger added. "Deer don't appear to be coming to feeders as often or as regularly as they would if it were still dry."
The only consolation is that bucks are becoming more active due to the onset of the rut in the Hill Country, so they'll be moving around as they typically do during the rut, regardless of the condition of the range.
Although the range conditions are good to excellent right now, the rains came too late to help with this year's buck antler growth which is probably no better than average throughout the Edwards Plateau region, or with the fawn production that is also no better than average. But if it continues to rain throughout the fall and winter, the stage is being set for better antler growth and fawn production next year.
While recent rains have improved range conditions across much of the state, whitetails in South Texas are battling through an extended stress period that started with last year's rut, according to biologists.
"Last season the rut was later and more spread out than normal and this did not fare well for mature deer," said Daniel Kunz, TPWD biologist in Alice. "By the first of February bucks were extremely drawn down and numerous reports of early antler shedding were occurring; an indication that bucks could be in poor shape. This will likely affect antler quality."
Hunters should expect a reasonable number of 2 1/2 year old bucks and 5 1/2 to 7 1/2 year old bucks as 2002-2004 and 2007 were good fawn production years resulting in good carry over, added TPWD biologist Dustin Windsor in Cotulla.
"Everything's greened up and deer aren't coming to feeders as readily because there's so much forage out there," said Alan Cain, TPWD district wildlife biologist for South Texas. "That might affect hunting success early in the fall but deer will still be there."
Surprisingly, according to Cain, some of the helicopter surveys in the brush country are showing some decent body conditions on bucks and does. Some places have some pretty good deer despite drought conditions. Fawn crops are looking pretty pitiful this year.
One region of the state that is entering the fall hunting season in prime condition is the Panhandle, according to Calvin Richardson, TPWD district biologist in Amarillo.
"The Panhandle deer herds---both mule and whitetail---are in great condition and should go into the fall in great shape," said Richardson. "With harvest being down last year, we should have some older aged bucks carry over into this year's season. My guess is that both mule deer and white-tails are not going to have to move around much to find quality forage, so hunting feeders might not be as productive as in years that we have been dry.
Deer hunters in 52 counties this season will be joining those in 61 existing counties having buck antler restrictions. Legal bucks in those counties are those with at least 1 unbranched antler (e.g., spikes and 3-pointers) or having an inside spread of at least 13 inches.
Newly affected counties include: Anderson, Angelina, Archer, Atascosa, Brazos, Brown, Chambers, Clay, Cooke, Denton, Ellis, Falls, Freestone, Grayson, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hill, Hood, Hunt, Jack, Jasper, Jefferson, Johnson, Kaufman, Liberty, Limestone, Madison, McLennan, Milam, Mills, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Newton, Orange, Palo Pinto, Parker, Polk, Robertson, San Jacinto, Smith, Stephens, Tarrant, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker, Wichita, Wise, and Young.
According to Clayton Wolf, TPWD big game program director, the antler restrictions have significantly improved age structure while maintaining ample hunting opportunity, based on data to date in the 61 counties where the rule is currently in effect.
Hunters should also note whitetail bag limits have changed in several counties across the state. Be sure to check the county listings in the 2009-2010 Outdoor Annual of hunting and fishing regulations for the county hunted.
The department got overwhelming support to increase whitetail bag limits in several areas of the state with growing deer numbers or populations sufficient to support additional hunting opportunity.
The department is increasing the bag limit in most Cross Timbers and Prairies and eastern Rolling Plains counties from three deer (no more than one buck, no more than two antlerless) or four deer (no more than two bucks and no more than two antlerless) to five deer (no more than 2 bucks). Counties affected include: Archer, Baylor, Bell (West of IH35), Bosque, Callahan, Clay, Coryell, Hamilton, Haskell, Hill, Jack, Jones, Knox, Lampasas, McLennan, Palo Pinto, Shackelford, Somervell, Stephens, Taylor, Throckmorton, Wichita, Wilbarger, Williamson (west of IH35), and Young.
In addition, the department is increasing the bag limit from four deer to five deer in Pecos, Terrell, and Upton counties. White-tailed deer densities throughout the eastern Trans-Pecos are very similar to densities on the Edwards Plateau, where current rules allow the harvest of up to five antlerless deer.
Another change increases the bag limit from three deer to five deer (no more than one buck) in selected counties in the western Rolling Plains. Counties affected include: Armstrong, Borden, Briscoe, Carson, Childress, Collingsworth, Cottle, Crosby, Dickens, Donley, Fisher, Floyd, Foard, Garza, Gray, Hall, Hardeman, Hemphill, Hutchinson, Kent, King, Lipscomb, Motley, Ochiltree, Roberts, Scurry, Stonewall, and Wheeler.
The department also opened whitetail hunting in Dawson, Deaf Smith, and Martin counties (three deer, no more than one buck, no more than two antlerless).
Areas of the state having sufficient antlerless deer populations to warrant additional hunting opportunity are getting more doe days this fall. The department is increasing antlerless deer hunting in the following areas:
• from 16 days to full-season either-sex in Dallam, Denton, Hartley, Moore, Oldham, Potter, Sherman and Tarrant counties;
• from 30 days to full-season either-sex in Cooke, Hardeman, Hill, Johnson, Wichita, and Wilbarger counties;
• from four days to16 days in Bowie and Rusk counties;
• from four days to 30 days in Cherokee and Houston counties;
• from no doe days to four doe days in Anderson, Henderson, Hunt, Leon, Rains, Smith, and Van Zandt counties.
The department is also expanding the late antlerless and spike season into additional counties. Counties affected include: Archer, Armstrong, Baylor, Bell (West of IH35), Borden, Bosque, Briscoe, Callahan, Carson, Childress, Clay, Collingsworth, Comanche, Cooke, Coryell, Cottle, Crosby, Denton, Dickens, Donley, Eastland, Erath, Fisher, Floyd, Foard, Garza, Gray, Hall, Hamilton, Hardeman, Haskell, Hemphill, Hill, Hood, Hutchinson, Jack, Johnson, Jones, Kent, King, Knox, Lampasas, Lipscomb, McLennan, Montague, Motley, Ochiltree, Palo Pinto, Parker, Pecos, Roberts, Scurry, Shackelford, Somervell, Stephens, Stonewall, Tarrant, Taylor, Terrell, Throckmorton, Upton, Wheeler, Wichita, Wilbarger, Williamson (West of IH35), Wise, and Young. In Pecos, Terrell, and Upton counties, the season would replace the current muzzleloader-only open season.
In East Texas, the department is establishing a special muzzleloader season in additional counties, lengthening the existing muzzleloader season by five days to be equivalent in length with the special antlerless and spike buck seasons in other counties, and altering the current muzzleloader bag composition to allow the harvest of any buck (not just spike bucks) and antlerless deer without permits if the county has "doe days" during the general season.
New counties affected include: Austin, Bastrop, Bowie, Brazoria, Caldwell, Camp, Cass, Cherokee, Colorado, De Witt, Fayette, Fort Bend, Goliad (North of HWY 59), Goliad (South of HWY 59), Gonzales, Gregg, Guadalupe, Harrison, Houston, Jackson (North of HWY 59), Jackson (South of HWY 59), Karnes, Lavaca, Lee, Marion, Matagorda, Morris, Nacogdoches, Panola, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, Shelby, Upshur, Victoria (North of HWY 59), Victoria (South of HWY 59), Waller, Washington, Wharton (North of HWY 59), Wharton (South of HWY 59), and Wilson.
The department is also adding one additional weekend and 10 additional weekdays in January to the current youth-only season.
The department also established a one buck only, antlerless by permit, nine-day mule deer season for Parmer County, the first ever deer season for that county.
The season concludes in the North Zone on Jan. 3 and the South Zone season ends Jan. 17.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
New Deer Hunting Game for Ipods and Iphones
This looks like a cool game to have on your Apple product - especially if you plan to wile away the hours on a stand all day.
You can hunt in Indiana or Texas and choose either a bow, shotgun, or rifle.
Enjoy!
Russell - Texas
You can hunt in Indiana or Texas and choose either a bow, shotgun, or rifle.
Enjoy!
Russell - Texas
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
BDD - Part 2
Here's my buddy Roy McCraw and a video he sent me of another doe taken in Northeast Texas.
I've know Roy since we were little boys and it great to see that he hammered a Fannin County, Texas doe on my birthday.
Make sure you watch this video. You'll like it as it's quiet approach reminds me (and it should remind us all) about why we love hunting so much.
RG - Texas
I've know Roy since we were little boys and it great to see that he hammered a Fannin County, Texas doe on my birthday.
Make sure you watch this video. You'll like it as it's quiet approach reminds me (and it should remind us all) about why we love hunting so much.
RG - Texas
Labels: Russell Graves, Texas, Videos
BDD
Big Doe Down...
My brother sent me this e-mail about a doe he shot with his longbow this week. He's not afraid to be a meat hunter and put his doe tag to use less than a mile from where we both grew up in Northeast Texas.
Hammer down, brother...
Labels: Russell Graves, Texas
Young Hunters Get First Shot During Special Weekend
AUSTIN, Texas - "Trick or Treat" won't be the only activity on the minds of Texas youth on Oct. 31. While some will dress up as fairy princesses and ghosts for Halloween, many will be wearing bright orange and camouflage for the special youth-only hunting weekends.
Passing the hunting heritage on to the next generation of hunters is what the special youth-only seasons are all about, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
TPWD has set aside Oct. 31-Nov. 1 as special youth-only seasons for white-tailed deer and Rio Grande turkey. Additional youth-only seasons have also been set aside in January. During the statewide special youth-only hunting weekend, licensed youth 16 years of age or younger will be allowed to harvest white-tailed deer and Rio Grande turkey.
The department has coordinated with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to offer a youth-only waterfowl season in the North and South Duck Zones on Oct. 24-25 for licensed youth 15 years of age or younger.
A Special Youth Hunting License ($7) is required and may be purchased wherever hunting licenses are sold, as well as online and by phone at 1-800-TX-LIC-4U for an additional convenience fee. General season bag limits for the county hunted apply during the youth-only weekend, but some additional restrictions may apply in certain areas so be sure to check the Outdoor Annual before heading afield.
TPWD has made an extra effort to open as much public hunting land as possible to youth hunting on department-managed lands. Youth who are hunting on TPWD lands must be accompanied by a supervising adult 18 years of age or older who possesses the required Annual Public Hunting permit, a valid hunting license and any required stamps and permits.
Youth hunts for either sex white-tailed deer are scheduled during the special weekend season on public hunting units, mostly in East Texas. Youth waterfowl hunts are available on many public hunting units.
The Annual Public Hunting (APH) Permit is a $48 permit, valid from Sept. 1 through Aug. 31 of the following year. The APH permit allows an adult access to designated public hunting lands in the TPWD public hunting lands program. With the APH permit, hunting is allowed for small game, turkey, white-tailed deer, exotics, predators, furbearers, and fishing without having to pay daily permit fees and in most instances, without having to be selected in a drawing.
###
Russell - Texas
Passing the hunting heritage on to the next generation of hunters is what the special youth-only seasons are all about, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
TPWD has set aside Oct. 31-Nov. 1 as special youth-only seasons for white-tailed deer and Rio Grande turkey. Additional youth-only seasons have also been set aside in January. During the statewide special youth-only hunting weekend, licensed youth 16 years of age or younger will be allowed to harvest white-tailed deer and Rio Grande turkey.
The department has coordinated with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to offer a youth-only waterfowl season in the North and South Duck Zones on Oct. 24-25 for licensed youth 15 years of age or younger.
A Special Youth Hunting License ($7) is required and may be purchased wherever hunting licenses are sold, as well as online and by phone at 1-800-TX-LIC-4U for an additional convenience fee. General season bag limits for the county hunted apply during the youth-only weekend, but some additional restrictions may apply in certain areas so be sure to check the Outdoor Annual before heading afield.
TPWD has made an extra effort to open as much public hunting land as possible to youth hunting on department-managed lands. Youth who are hunting on TPWD lands must be accompanied by a supervising adult 18 years of age or older who possesses the required Annual Public Hunting permit, a valid hunting license and any required stamps and permits.
Youth hunts for either sex white-tailed deer are scheduled during the special weekend season on public hunting units, mostly in East Texas. Youth waterfowl hunts are available on many public hunting units.
The Annual Public Hunting (APH) Permit is a $48 permit, valid from Sept. 1 through Aug. 31 of the following year. The APH permit allows an adult access to designated public hunting lands in the TPWD public hunting lands program. With the APH permit, hunting is allowed for small game, turkey, white-tailed deer, exotics, predators, furbearers, and fishing without having to pay daily permit fees and in most instances, without having to be selected in a drawing.
###
Russell - Texas
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Check this out.
I don't even know whatto say about this video.
It can speak for itself.
RG - TEXAS
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas, Videos
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Huge Texas Gator
Yeah, I know it's not deer hunting but you have to give this kid props. An alligator that was nearly the state record - killed with a .410.
This kid's my hero.
You can read the whole story HERE.
RG in Texas
This kid's my hero.
You can read the whole story HERE.
RG in Texas
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas, Videos
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Bowhunters May Need To Go Native during Archery Season
AUSTIN, Texas – An early and abundant acorn crop may force Texas bowhunters to seek out native food supplies during archery season, which runs Oct. 3-Nov. 6.
Reports from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department field biologists indicate above average mast crop production and an early acorn drop. Recent rains across much of the state have also helped generate forb production, adding to the availability of native food sources for deer.
By some accounts, the number of Texas bowhunters has grown during the last l5-to-20 years and those ranks are likely to grow even more now that crossbows are allowed during the archery-only season.
For the first time since 1975 when Texas implemented a Special Archery Stamp requirement, hunters will be allowed to use crossbows during the archery-only hunting season.
Previously, crossbows could only be used during an archery-only season by persons with an upper-limb disability. Recent legislative action gave authority to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission to allow any person, regardless of physical ability, to use a crossbow during the archery-only season.
One exception is that crossbows may be used in Grayson County during the archery-only season only by hunters with an upper-limb disability who possess a physician’s statement attesting to the permanent loss of the use of fingers, hand or arm in a manner that renders a person incapable of using a longbow, compound bow or recurved bow. Any licensed hunter may use a crossbow during the regular deer season.
Bowhunters are reminded that an archery stamp and a valid Texas hunting license are required. Hunter education requirements must also be met.
While recent rains will help improve current range conditions, whitetails in South Texas are battling through an extended stress period that started with last year’s rut, according to biologists.
“Last season the rut was later and more spread out than normal and this did not fare well for mature deer,” said Daniel Kunz, TPWD biologist in Alice. “By the first of February bucks were extremely drawn down and numerous reports of early antler shedding were occurring; an indication that bucks could be in poor shape. This will likely affect antler quality.”
Hunters should expect a reasonable number of 2 ½ year old bucks and 5 ½ to 7 ½ year old bucks as 2002-2004 and 2007 were good fawn production years resulting in good carry over, added TPWD biologist Dustin Windsor in Cotulla.
One region of the state that is entering the fall hunting season in prime condition is the Panhandle, according to Calvin Richardson, TPWD district biologist in Amarillo.
“The Panhandle deer herds---both mule and whitetail---are in great condition and should go into the fall in great shape,” said Richardson. “With harvest being down last year, we should have some older aged bucks carry over into this year's season. My guess is that both mule deer and white-tails are not going to have to move around much to find quality forage, so hunting feeders might not be as productive as in years that we have been dry.
“Probably, the only downside that I could imagine is that we probably are going to have a heck of a mosquito crop at the beginning of archery season with all of the playas full,” he added.
Bowhunters in 52 counties this season will be joining those in 61 existing counties having buck antler restrictions. Legal bucks in those counties are those with at least 1 unbranched antler (e.g., spikes and 3-pointers) or having an inside spread of at least 13 inches.
Newly affected counties include: Anderson, Angelina, Archer, Atascosa, Brazos, Brown, Chambers, Clay, Cooke, Denton, Ellis, Falls, Freestone, Grayson, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hill, Hood, Hunt, Jack, Jasper, Jefferson, Johnson, Kaufman, Liberty, Limestone, Madison, McLennan, Milam, Mills, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Newton, Orange, Palo Pinto, Parker, Polk, Robertson, San Jacinto, Smith, Stephens, Tarrant, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker, Wichita, Wise, and Young.
Archers should also note whitetail bag limits have changed in several counties across the state. Be sure to check the county listings in the 2009-2010 Outdoor Annual of hunting and fishing regulations for the county hunted.
Also, bowhunters taking advantage of opportunities on TPWD managed public lands under the $48 Annual Public Hunting Permit should take note that crossbows are legal on those sites open for archery season, unless otherwise stated in year’s Public Hunting Lands map booklet.
The crossbow restriction allowing only hunters with documented upper limb disabilities remains in effect in all six units in Public Hunting Region-4 Dallas /Ft. Worth (Cooper Wildlife Management Area, Sulphur Unit of Cooper Lake State Park, Caddo National Grasslands WMA both units, Tawakoni WMA and Pat Mayse WMA) and three of the 14 units in Public Hunting Region-5 Pineywoods (White Oak Creek WMA, Caddo Lake WMA and Old Sabine Bottom WMA).
“Most of these WMAs have moderate deer densities and because TPWD does not control the number of hunters for APH access hunts, we do not have direct control over the harvest numbers on these areas,” said Kevin Herriman, TPWD district biologist in Tyler. “We do not have data available that provides us with a clear understanding of what effect the use of crossbows will have on total harvest numbers.”
Herriman went on to add that on public hunting areas having drawn public hunts during the archery season where hunter numbers and harvest can be monitored, crossbows will be allowed.
“We will be investigating the effect crossbows have on their deer harvest,” he said. “Once we are able to better determine what effect crossbows will have on archery deer harvest rates we will re-evaluate the season restrictions on the WMAs that allow archery season through the APH.”
Reports from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department field biologists indicate above average mast crop production and an early acorn drop. Recent rains across much of the state have also helped generate forb production, adding to the availability of native food sources for deer.
By some accounts, the number of Texas bowhunters has grown during the last l5-to-20 years and those ranks are likely to grow even more now that crossbows are allowed during the archery-only season.
For the first time since 1975 when Texas implemented a Special Archery Stamp requirement, hunters will be allowed to use crossbows during the archery-only hunting season.
Previously, crossbows could only be used during an archery-only season by persons with an upper-limb disability. Recent legislative action gave authority to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission to allow any person, regardless of physical ability, to use a crossbow during the archery-only season.
One exception is that crossbows may be used in Grayson County during the archery-only season only by hunters with an upper-limb disability who possess a physician’s statement attesting to the permanent loss of the use of fingers, hand or arm in a manner that renders a person incapable of using a longbow, compound bow or recurved bow. Any licensed hunter may use a crossbow during the regular deer season.
Bowhunters are reminded that an archery stamp and a valid Texas hunting license are required. Hunter education requirements must also be met.
While recent rains will help improve current range conditions, whitetails in South Texas are battling through an extended stress period that started with last year’s rut, according to biologists.
“Last season the rut was later and more spread out than normal and this did not fare well for mature deer,” said Daniel Kunz, TPWD biologist in Alice. “By the first of February bucks were extremely drawn down and numerous reports of early antler shedding were occurring; an indication that bucks could be in poor shape. This will likely affect antler quality.”
Hunters should expect a reasonable number of 2 ½ year old bucks and 5 ½ to 7 ½ year old bucks as 2002-2004 and 2007 were good fawn production years resulting in good carry over, added TPWD biologist Dustin Windsor in Cotulla.
One region of the state that is entering the fall hunting season in prime condition is the Panhandle, according to Calvin Richardson, TPWD district biologist in Amarillo.
“The Panhandle deer herds---both mule and whitetail---are in great condition and should go into the fall in great shape,” said Richardson. “With harvest being down last year, we should have some older aged bucks carry over into this year's season. My guess is that both mule deer and white-tails are not going to have to move around much to find quality forage, so hunting feeders might not be as productive as in years that we have been dry.
“Probably, the only downside that I could imagine is that we probably are going to have a heck of a mosquito crop at the beginning of archery season with all of the playas full,” he added.
Bowhunters in 52 counties this season will be joining those in 61 existing counties having buck antler restrictions. Legal bucks in those counties are those with at least 1 unbranched antler (e.g., spikes and 3-pointers) or having an inside spread of at least 13 inches.
Newly affected counties include: Anderson, Angelina, Archer, Atascosa, Brazos, Brown, Chambers, Clay, Cooke, Denton, Ellis, Falls, Freestone, Grayson, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hill, Hood, Hunt, Jack, Jasper, Jefferson, Johnson, Kaufman, Liberty, Limestone, Madison, McLennan, Milam, Mills, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Newton, Orange, Palo Pinto, Parker, Polk, Robertson, San Jacinto, Smith, Stephens, Tarrant, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker, Wichita, Wise, and Young.
Archers should also note whitetail bag limits have changed in several counties across the state. Be sure to check the county listings in the 2009-2010 Outdoor Annual of hunting and fishing regulations for the county hunted.
Also, bowhunters taking advantage of opportunities on TPWD managed public lands under the $48 Annual Public Hunting Permit should take note that crossbows are legal on those sites open for archery season, unless otherwise stated in year’s Public Hunting Lands map booklet.
The crossbow restriction allowing only hunters with documented upper limb disabilities remains in effect in all six units in Public Hunting Region-4 Dallas /Ft. Worth (Cooper Wildlife Management Area, Sulphur Unit of Cooper Lake State Park, Caddo National Grasslands WMA both units, Tawakoni WMA and Pat Mayse WMA) and three of the 14 units in Public Hunting Region-5 Pineywoods (White Oak Creek WMA, Caddo Lake WMA and Old Sabine Bottom WMA).
“Most of these WMAs have moderate deer densities and because TPWD does not control the number of hunters for APH access hunts, we do not have direct control over the harvest numbers on these areas,” said Kevin Herriman, TPWD district biologist in Tyler. “We do not have data available that provides us with a clear understanding of what effect the use of crossbows will have on total harvest numbers.”
Herriman went on to add that on public hunting areas having drawn public hunts during the archery season where hunter numbers and harvest can be monitored, crossbows will be allowed.
“We will be investigating the effect crossbows have on their deer harvest,” he said. “Once we are able to better determine what effect crossbows will have on archery deer harvest rates we will re-evaluate the season restrictions on the WMAs that allow archery season through the APH.”
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Crazy Stuff from East Texas
Check out this video from an East Texas TV station.
What do you think it is? Me, I think they are simply bugs overexposed by the camera's flash and trailing a blur due to the slow shutter speed.
-RG from Texas
What do you think it is? Me, I think they are simply bugs overexposed by the camera's flash and trailing a blur due to the slow shutter speed.
-RG from Texas
Labels: Russell Graves, Texas, Videos
Monday, September 7, 2009
Hunt Junkies e3.3
Bubba and I just finished up a weekend of dove shooting with our dad. In this episode, I do a little explaining about why dove hunting is so appealing.
Labels: Russell Graves, Texas, Videos
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Bucks Everywhere
I have a piece of property about 40 miles from my house that I just gained access to and am in the process of trying to figure out what's on the place. After 16 days, I went back to check on the a camera camera that I left behind and I couldn't believe all of the bucks I have on the compact flash card.
By the way, this place is for sale...
-Russell Graves
By the way, this place is for sale...
-Russell Graves
Labels: Russell Graves, Texas
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Entries Available for Big Time Texas Hunts
AUSTIN, Texas - The Lone Star State boasts some of the finest hunting anywhere in the country, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Big Time Texas Hunts offer hunters a chance to experience the best of the best.
The Big Time Texas Hunts program offers the opportunity to win one or more top guided hunts with food and lodging provided, as well as taxidermy in some cases. The crown jewel of the program is the Texas Grand Slam hunt package, which includes four separate hunts for Texas’ most prized big game animals - the desert bighorn sheep, white-tailed deer, mule deer and pronghorn antelope. There are several quality whitetail hunt packages available, as well as opportunities to pursue alligator, exotic big game, waterfowl and upland game birds.
Entries for the Big Time Texas Hunt drawings are $10 each and are available wherever hunting licenses are sold or by calling 800-895-4248. They may also be purchased online this year at a discounted price of $9 each. There is no limit to the number of entries an individual may purchase. Purchasers must be 17 years of age or older.
Proceeds from the Big Time Texas Hunts are used to provide more public hunting opportunity and to fund wildlife conservation and research programs in Texas.
Here's a summary of the Big Time Texas Hunts offerings:
The Texas Grand Slam - This truly is the hunt of a lifetime. The bighorn sheep hunt is very exclusive; TPWD issues only a handful of permits a year. The bighorn sheep hunt takes place on a West Texas Wildlife Management Area. The other three hunts included in the Texas Grand Slam will be on some of the most exclusive private ranches in the state. The winner may also bring along a non-hunting companion to share in this awesome outdoor adventure.
Texas Whitetail Bonanza - Ten winners will each get to experience a high-quality white-tailed deer hunt, something legendary to Texas on popular ranches known to produce big bucks. Guide service, food and lodging are provided on these 3-5-day trips. Each winner can also bring along a companion to hunt as well.
Texas Gator Hunt - One winner and a guest will enjoy a rare and unique three-day trip pursuing alligators at the J. D. Murphree Wildlife Management Area on the Gulf Coast. Each hunter may harvest one alligator. All necessary equipment, expert guides, lodging and gator hide removal are included. The winner and guest will also be treated to an airboat tour of the marsh to view alligators.
Texas Waterfowl Adventure - One winner and as many as three invited guests will win a series of three exciting waterfowl adventures. The hunts are located on some of the best waterfowl areas in Texas. Trips include a Coastal Prairies guided hunt for snows, blues and white-fronted geese; a guided duck hunt in the Coastal Marshes; and an East Texas hunt for wood ducks and mallards.
Texas Exotic Safari - Two winners will experience the thrill of hunting African exotic game right here in Texas on the Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area in the Texas Hill Country. Each winner can take two exotic species, including sable antelope, gemsbok oryx, scimitar-horned oryx or common waterbuck. Hunters may choose to shoot modern rifle, muzzleloader, archery or crossbow. Winners can also bring along a companion to hunt a management exotic. Food and lodging will be provided at the scenic Mason Mountain WMA lodge. Taxidermy service will be provided for the two winners. Proceeds go to benefit wildlife conservation and research on Mason Mountain WMA.
Texas Big Time Bird Hunt - One winner along with as many as three hunting buddies will enjoy a unique package of upland game bird hunts: two days of quail, two days of pheasant hunting in the Panhandle and two afternoons of dove hunting. There will also be a two-day guided spring turkey hunt for two included in the package. Food, guide service and lodging are included on all bird hunts, and pointing dogs are provided for quail and pheasant hunts.
Texas Premium Buck Hunt - This is the ultimate deer hunting experience-an opportunity to harvest a trophy white-tailed buck in the rugged South Texas brush country. One winner and a guest will enjoy the finest deer hunting trip that Texas can offer. Professional guide service, food and high quality accommodations are included to provide each hunter comfort as well as great hunting.
The deadline to apply for this year's Big Time Texas Hunts is Oct. 15. Winners will be announced in November.
The Big Time Texas Hunts program offers the opportunity to win one or more top guided hunts with food and lodging provided, as well as taxidermy in some cases. The crown jewel of the program is the Texas Grand Slam hunt package, which includes four separate hunts for Texas’ most prized big game animals - the desert bighorn sheep, white-tailed deer, mule deer and pronghorn antelope. There are several quality whitetail hunt packages available, as well as opportunities to pursue alligator, exotic big game, waterfowl and upland game birds.
Entries for the Big Time Texas Hunt drawings are $10 each and are available wherever hunting licenses are sold or by calling 800-895-4248. They may also be purchased online this year at a discounted price of $9 each. There is no limit to the number of entries an individual may purchase. Purchasers must be 17 years of age or older.
Proceeds from the Big Time Texas Hunts are used to provide more public hunting opportunity and to fund wildlife conservation and research programs in Texas.
Here's a summary of the Big Time Texas Hunts offerings:
The Texas Grand Slam - This truly is the hunt of a lifetime. The bighorn sheep hunt is very exclusive; TPWD issues only a handful of permits a year. The bighorn sheep hunt takes place on a West Texas Wildlife Management Area. The other three hunts included in the Texas Grand Slam will be on some of the most exclusive private ranches in the state. The winner may also bring along a non-hunting companion to share in this awesome outdoor adventure.
Texas Whitetail Bonanza - Ten winners will each get to experience a high-quality white-tailed deer hunt, something legendary to Texas on popular ranches known to produce big bucks. Guide service, food and lodging are provided on these 3-5-day trips. Each winner can also bring along a companion to hunt as well.
Texas Gator Hunt - One winner and a guest will enjoy a rare and unique three-day trip pursuing alligators at the J. D. Murphree Wildlife Management Area on the Gulf Coast. Each hunter may harvest one alligator. All necessary equipment, expert guides, lodging and gator hide removal are included. The winner and guest will also be treated to an airboat tour of the marsh to view alligators.
Texas Waterfowl Adventure - One winner and as many as three invited guests will win a series of three exciting waterfowl adventures. The hunts are located on some of the best waterfowl areas in Texas. Trips include a Coastal Prairies guided hunt for snows, blues and white-fronted geese; a guided duck hunt in the Coastal Marshes; and an East Texas hunt for wood ducks and mallards.
Texas Exotic Safari - Two winners will experience the thrill of hunting African exotic game right here in Texas on the Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area in the Texas Hill Country. Each winner can take two exotic species, including sable antelope, gemsbok oryx, scimitar-horned oryx or common waterbuck. Hunters may choose to shoot modern rifle, muzzleloader, archery or crossbow. Winners can also bring along a companion to hunt a management exotic. Food and lodging will be provided at the scenic Mason Mountain WMA lodge. Taxidermy service will be provided for the two winners. Proceeds go to benefit wildlife conservation and research on Mason Mountain WMA.
Texas Big Time Bird Hunt - One winner along with as many as three hunting buddies will enjoy a unique package of upland game bird hunts: two days of quail, two days of pheasant hunting in the Panhandle and two afternoons of dove hunting. There will also be a two-day guided spring turkey hunt for two included in the package. Food, guide service and lodging are included on all bird hunts, and pointing dogs are provided for quail and pheasant hunts.
Texas Premium Buck Hunt - This is the ultimate deer hunting experience-an opportunity to harvest a trophy white-tailed buck in the rugged South Texas brush country. One winner and a guest will enjoy the finest deer hunting trip that Texas can offer. Professional guide service, food and high quality accommodations are included to provide each hunter comfort as well as great hunting.
The deadline to apply for this year's Big Time Texas Hunts is Oct. 15. Winners will be announced in November.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Hunt Junkies e3.2
A long time coming, this latest episode of Hunt Junkies is the first ever fishing episode and takes place in the beautiful Devils River country of Southwest Texas. Adventure, funs, and even an untimely death ;)
Check it out...
Check it out...
Labels: Russell Graves, Texas, Videos
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
New Season Hunting, Fishing Licenses Go On Sale Aug. 15
AUSTIN, Texas - Texas hunting and fishing licenses for 2009-2010 will go on sale Saturday, Aug. 15. Sportsmen are reminded all current Texas annual hunting and fishing licenses (except for the year-to-date fishing license) expire Aug. 31.
Most fees for recreational hunting and fishing licenses have increased by five percent; resident hunting licenses now cost $25, while the Super Combo all-inclusive license costs $68. There is no increase in price for any of the required stamp endorsements or the $48 Annual Public Hunting permit.
Non-resident hunting licenses increase by $15 from $300 to $315, which also reflects a five percent hike.
The resident freshwater fishing package costs $30 and the saltwater fishing package is $35.
Effective Sept. 1, the resident lifetime fishing and hunting licenses will increase to $1,000 and the lifetime combination license increases to $1,800.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department issues 2.1 million hunting and fishing licenses annually through the agency’s 28 field offices, more than 65 state parks and at over 1,500 retailers across Texas.
Licenses may also be purchased online through the TPWD Web site or by phone (800-895-4248). Call center hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. The online transaction system is available 24/7. A $5 convenience fee will be charged for online and phone orders.
A license confirmation number is issued at the time of purchase for online and phone orders, and the physical license is mailed separately. Confirmation numbers will verify that a license has been purchased, which is sufficient for dove hunting, but will not allow hunters to take fish or wildlife that requires a tag.
In addition to a hunting license, all wing shooters will need to purchase a game bird stamp. To hunt doves or teal in September, a Migratory Game Bird Stamp ($7) is required. Duck hunters also need to purchase a Federal Duck Stamp and receive HIP (Harvest Information Program) certification. HIP certification will be printed on the license at the time of sale only after the purchaser answers a few brief migratory bird questions. Lifetime license holders must also be HIP-certified and purchase the Federal Duck Stamp to hunt migratory birds. All other state stamp endorsements are included with a lifetime license.
New this year, purchase of the Federal Duck Stamp will cost $15-$17 depending on where you buy. If purchased through the TPWD license system there is a $2 administrative fee. Your license will indicate Federal Duck Stamp purchase and the physical stamp will be mailed. There are other options for purchasing the stamp, either at some major post offices or online.
"Remember, it's your responsibility to make sure you are properly licensed, so be sure to check your license before you leave the sales counter," said Tom Newton with TPWD's license program. "We do get a fair number of requests for re-issuance of licenses because the hunter forgot to get HIP certified."
There are other mandatory endorsements to consider at the time of purchase, too. An Upland Game Bird Stamp ($7) is required to hunt all non-migratory game birds, including turkey, quail, pheasant, chachalaca and lesser prairie chicken.
Of course, anyone who purchases the Super Combo license package, the best bang for the buck, automatically gets these needed stamps.
Also new this year, sandhill crane permits may be obtained in person at no cost only through TPWD Law Enforcement offices and TPWD headquarters in Austin. Permits are also available anytime online through TPWD's online license sales and by calling 800-792-1112 (option 5, menu 2) or 512-389-4820 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For online and phone orders, a confirmation number will be issued in lieu of a permit and a $5 transaction fee will be charged.
Hunter Education Certification is also required of any hunter born on or after Sept. 2, 1971 and who is at least 17 years old. For hunters who are unable to work in a hunter education class before hunting season for whatever reason, TPWD does offer a deferral option.
The deferral option allows people 17 years of age or older a one-time only extension to complete the state’s hunter education requirements. The individual must first purchase a hunting license and then may purchase the deferral option.
Hunters using the deferral must be accompanied by someone 17 years old or older who is also licensed to hunt in Texas. The accompanying individual must have completed hunter education or be exempt from the requirements (born before Sept. 2, 1971). The extension is good for one license year, by which time the person with the deferred option needs to complete a hunter education course.
This option is not available to those who have ever received a conviction or deferred adjudication for lack of hunter education certification. They still must take the course before going afield.
Also available through license agents and online are chances for TPWD's Big Time Texas Hunts. The Big Time Texas Hunts program offers the opportunity to win one or more top guided hunts with food and lodging provided, as well as taxidermy in some cases. The crown jewel of the program is the Texas Grand Slam hunt package, which includes four separate hunts for Texas' most prized big game animals - the desert bighorn sheep, white-tailed deer, mule deer and pronghorn antelope. There are several quality whitetail hunt packages available, as well as opportunities to pursue alligator, exotic big game, waterfowl and upland game birds.
Entries for the Big Time Texas Hunt drawings are $10 each and are available wherever hunting licenses are sold. They may also be purchased online at a discounted price of $9 each. There is no limit to the number of entries an individual may purchase, and entries may be given as gifts for others. Purchasers must be 17 years of age or older.
Most fees for recreational hunting and fishing licenses have increased by five percent; resident hunting licenses now cost $25, while the Super Combo all-inclusive license costs $68. There is no increase in price for any of the required stamp endorsements or the $48 Annual Public Hunting permit.
Non-resident hunting licenses increase by $15 from $300 to $315, which also reflects a five percent hike.
The resident freshwater fishing package costs $30 and the saltwater fishing package is $35.
Effective Sept. 1, the resident lifetime fishing and hunting licenses will increase to $1,000 and the lifetime combination license increases to $1,800.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department issues 2.1 million hunting and fishing licenses annually through the agency’s 28 field offices, more than 65 state parks and at over 1,500 retailers across Texas.
Licenses may also be purchased online through the TPWD Web site or by phone (800-895-4248). Call center hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. The online transaction system is available 24/7. A $5 convenience fee will be charged for online and phone orders.
A license confirmation number is issued at the time of purchase for online and phone orders, and the physical license is mailed separately. Confirmation numbers will verify that a license has been purchased, which is sufficient for dove hunting, but will not allow hunters to take fish or wildlife that requires a tag.
In addition to a hunting license, all wing shooters will need to purchase a game bird stamp. To hunt doves or teal in September, a Migratory Game Bird Stamp ($7) is required. Duck hunters also need to purchase a Federal Duck Stamp and receive HIP (Harvest Information Program) certification. HIP certification will be printed on the license at the time of sale only after the purchaser answers a few brief migratory bird questions. Lifetime license holders must also be HIP-certified and purchase the Federal Duck Stamp to hunt migratory birds. All other state stamp endorsements are included with a lifetime license.
New this year, purchase of the Federal Duck Stamp will cost $15-$17 depending on where you buy. If purchased through the TPWD license system there is a $2 administrative fee. Your license will indicate Federal Duck Stamp purchase and the physical stamp will be mailed. There are other options for purchasing the stamp, either at some major post offices or online.
"Remember, it's your responsibility to make sure you are properly licensed, so be sure to check your license before you leave the sales counter," said Tom Newton with TPWD's license program. "We do get a fair number of requests for re-issuance of licenses because the hunter forgot to get HIP certified."
There are other mandatory endorsements to consider at the time of purchase, too. An Upland Game Bird Stamp ($7) is required to hunt all non-migratory game birds, including turkey, quail, pheasant, chachalaca and lesser prairie chicken.
Of course, anyone who purchases the Super Combo license package, the best bang for the buck, automatically gets these needed stamps.
Also new this year, sandhill crane permits may be obtained in person at no cost only through TPWD Law Enforcement offices and TPWD headquarters in Austin. Permits are also available anytime online through TPWD's online license sales and by calling 800-792-1112 (option 5, menu 2) or 512-389-4820 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For online and phone orders, a confirmation number will be issued in lieu of a permit and a $5 transaction fee will be charged.
Hunter Education Certification is also required of any hunter born on or after Sept. 2, 1971 and who is at least 17 years old. For hunters who are unable to work in a hunter education class before hunting season for whatever reason, TPWD does offer a deferral option.
The deferral option allows people 17 years of age or older a one-time only extension to complete the state’s hunter education requirements. The individual must first purchase a hunting license and then may purchase the deferral option.
Hunters using the deferral must be accompanied by someone 17 years old or older who is also licensed to hunt in Texas. The accompanying individual must have completed hunter education or be exempt from the requirements (born before Sept. 2, 1971). The extension is good for one license year, by which time the person with the deferred option needs to complete a hunter education course.
This option is not available to those who have ever received a conviction or deferred adjudication for lack of hunter education certification. They still must take the course before going afield.
Also available through license agents and online are chances for TPWD's Big Time Texas Hunts. The Big Time Texas Hunts program offers the opportunity to win one or more top guided hunts with food and lodging provided, as well as taxidermy in some cases. The crown jewel of the program is the Texas Grand Slam hunt package, which includes four separate hunts for Texas' most prized big game animals - the desert bighorn sheep, white-tailed deer, mule deer and pronghorn antelope. There are several quality whitetail hunt packages available, as well as opportunities to pursue alligator, exotic big game, waterfowl and upland game birds.
Entries for the Big Time Texas Hunt drawings are $10 each and are available wherever hunting licenses are sold. They may also be purchased online at a discounted price of $9 each. There is no limit to the number of entries an individual may purchase, and entries may be given as gifts for others. Purchasers must be 17 years of age or older.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Bass Pro Shops Fall Hunting Classic
This weekend, I was honored to be on the speaking slate with hunting industry personalities Rob Keck (pictured above) and Bone Collector Nick Mundt at the Hunting University seminars at the Bass Pro Shops store in Grapevine, Texas. These guys put on great seminars and were well attended by enthusiastic listeners taking in Rob's years of experience in the woods and Nick's exciting tales of Russian bear hunts. If they ever come close to your town, make sure you check them out.-RG
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Texas News Round-up
With the coming of a new season, newspapers all over Texas start to ramp up their coverage of the most exciting three months in the Texas outdoors. Here are three great articles from the San Angelo Standard-Times:
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
BowTech Build-Up
Now this is cool. For all of you bow nerds like me, be sure to check out this cool video...
Labels: Russell Graves, Videos
Friday, July 31, 2009
Childress County Double Drop
I was going through some images this evening and found this one, shot on film back, in 2004.
What a buck. Free ranging, double drop tines, a big G-2 kicker, a main frame 8-point, and a ton of spread. I have seen a lot of big bucks before but I got buck fever when I saw this guy. Of course I wish he'd been closer and the sun at my back but you takes what you gets.
-Russell in Tejas
Labels: Russell Graves, Texas
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Free Web Service Connects Hunters With Places To Hunt
AUSTIN, Texas -- Research surveys show that finding a place to hunt is a barrier for many people in today's Texas, which is why Texas Parks and Wildlife Department created the Hunt Texas Online Connection, a free Web service that allows anyone to view hunting opportunities posted by private landowners across the state.
In early 2008, the department invited landowners to list hunting lease opportunities in Texas for free, including last-minute openings. Currently, hunters can search more than 450 hunting opportunities by lease type, county, game animal, cost per hunter and other parameters. The service is free to both hunters and landowners.
"Anyone looking for a hunting lease in Texas can use this free service to find listings from landowners throughout the state," said Linda Campbell, TPWD program director for private lands and public hunting. "This is one way we're trying to better serve our license-buying public. It's important to keep the Texas hunting tradition strong, since hunting supports wholesome family recreation, pumps more than a billion dollars per year into Texas local economies, and provides an economic incentive for private land stewards to protect wildlife habitat."
To register, landowners can visit the main Hunt Texas Online Connection Web area on the TPWD Web site. Click "Get Started," select a username and password, log in, and start looking at hunting opportunities. Leases can be seen without registering and logging in, but users must register in order to contact landowners.
After users fill out the online registration form, they'll get an email with a long URL ending in the word "activate" -- users must click this link to complete registration. If users don't receive the activation email, it might be because a security system is blocking it. In that case, users could try placing hunt.texas@tpwd.state.tx.us in their address book or allowed e-mail rules.
Hunters and landowners will determine if they are the right fit for each other, and all transactions will be between landowners and hunters. The new service also provides links to privately operated hunting lease Web sites as a convenience for the public. TPWD does not independently verify, endorse or warrant any of the information posted on Hunt Texas Online Connection, or any information contained on the privately operated hunting lease Web sites that are linked from the service.
Anyone can e-mail questions, comments and suggestions about Hunt Texas Online Connection to hunt.texas@tpwd.state.tx.us. The TPWD Wildlife Information staff at (512) 389-4505 can also provide basic assistance with the service.
In early 2008, the department invited landowners to list hunting lease opportunities in Texas for free, including last-minute openings. Currently, hunters can search more than 450 hunting opportunities by lease type, county, game animal, cost per hunter and other parameters. The service is free to both hunters and landowners.
"Anyone looking for a hunting lease in Texas can use this free service to find listings from landowners throughout the state," said Linda Campbell, TPWD program director for private lands and public hunting. "This is one way we're trying to better serve our license-buying public. It's important to keep the Texas hunting tradition strong, since hunting supports wholesome family recreation, pumps more than a billion dollars per year into Texas local economies, and provides an economic incentive for private land stewards to protect wildlife habitat."
To register, landowners can visit the main Hunt Texas Online Connection Web area on the TPWD Web site. Click "Get Started," select a username and password, log in, and start looking at hunting opportunities. Leases can be seen without registering and logging in, but users must register in order to contact landowners.
After users fill out the online registration form, they'll get an email with a long URL ending in the word "activate" -- users must click this link to complete registration. If users don't receive the activation email, it might be because a security system is blocking it. In that case, users could try placing hunt.texas@tpwd.state.tx.us in their address book or allowed e-mail rules.
Hunters and landowners will determine if they are the right fit for each other, and all transactions will be between landowners and hunters. The new service also provides links to privately operated hunting lease Web sites as a convenience for the public. TPWD does not independently verify, endorse or warrant any of the information posted on Hunt Texas Online Connection, or any information contained on the privately operated hunting lease Web sites that are linked from the service.
Anyone can e-mail questions, comments and suggestions about Hunt Texas Online Connection to hunt.texas@tpwd.state.tx.us. The TPWD Wildlife Information staff at (512) 389-4505 can also provide basic assistance with the service.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
TPW Commission Authorizes Crossbows for Early Archery Season
AUSTIN, Texas -- In preparation for implementation of new legislation, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has adopted rules allowing hunters to use crossbows during the upcoming special archery-only hunting season and authorizing persons with documented physical disabilities to use laser sighting devices.
Currently, crossbows cannot be used during an archery-only season except by persons with an upper-limb disability. Recent legislative action gave authority to the Commission to allow any person, regardless of physical ability, to use a crossbow during the archery-only season, provided the person has acquired an archery stamp and a valid Texas hunting license, except in Grayson County. Crossbows may be used in Grayson County during the special archery-only open season (Oct. 3-Nov. 6) only by hunters with an upper-limb disability who possess a physician's statement attesting to the permanent loss of the use of fingers, hand or arm in a manner that renders a person incapable of using a longbow, compound bow or recurved bow. Any person, regardless of physical ability, may use a crossbow during the general season in Grayson County (Nov. 7-Jan. 3).
The Commission also authorized use of laser sighting devices by persons with a physical disability that renders the person incapable of using traditional firearm sights to hunt game animals and game birds. The provision is limited to lawful hunting hours in open seasons, provided the person possesses a physician's or optometrist's statement certifying the extent of the disability. The person must also be assisted by a person who does not have a physical disability, has a hunting license and is at least 13 years of age.
The new crossbow and laser sighting rules are both the result of bills passed by state lawmakers in the 81st Texas Legislature earlier this year. The new rules take effect Sept. 1, 2009.
Anyone planning to take advantage of the new crossbow opportunity during the special archery-only hunting season this October should review the rules and definitions for crossbow hunting in Texas. These are listed under Means and Methods in the Outdoor Annual booklet available at hunting license sales locations and on the TPWD Web site.
Currently, crossbows cannot be used during an archery-only season except by persons with an upper-limb disability. Recent legislative action gave authority to the Commission to allow any person, regardless of physical ability, to use a crossbow during the archery-only season, provided the person has acquired an archery stamp and a valid Texas hunting license, except in Grayson County. Crossbows may be used in Grayson County during the special archery-only open season (Oct. 3-Nov. 6) only by hunters with an upper-limb disability who possess a physician's statement attesting to the permanent loss of the use of fingers, hand or arm in a manner that renders a person incapable of using a longbow, compound bow or recurved bow. Any person, regardless of physical ability, may use a crossbow during the general season in Grayson County (Nov. 7-Jan. 3).
The Commission also authorized use of laser sighting devices by persons with a physical disability that renders the person incapable of using traditional firearm sights to hunt game animals and game birds. The provision is limited to lawful hunting hours in open seasons, provided the person possesses a physician's or optometrist's statement certifying the extent of the disability. The person must also be assisted by a person who does not have a physical disability, has a hunting license and is at least 13 years of age.
The new crossbow and laser sighting rules are both the result of bills passed by state lawmakers in the 81st Texas Legislature earlier this year. The new rules take effect Sept. 1, 2009.
Anyone planning to take advantage of the new crossbow opportunity during the special archery-only hunting season this October should review the rules and definitions for crossbow hunting in Texas. These are listed under Means and Methods in the Outdoor Annual booklet available at hunting license sales locations and on the TPWD Web site.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Texas Public Hunts Offer Affordable, Quality Experience
AUSTIN, Texas - Sportsmen looking for an affordable family activity should consider Texas' public hunting opportunities. The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department will be offering adult and youth only hunts by special drawing for a wide variety of species. Hunt schedules and applications are available upon request and online now. Don’t miss out on a chance to take a kid hunting.
During the upcoming hunting seasons, almost 5,000 hunters will be selected through random computer drawings allowing access to some of the state's high-quality managed wildlife habitat. Wildlife management areas, state parks and leased private property will be available for these quality supervised hunts for white-tailed deer, mule deer, pronghorn, javelina, alligator, exotics, feral hog and spring turkey.
Through an application process, hunters can select from among 25 different hunt categories, including eight specifically for youth only, and choose a preferred hunt date and location from hunt areas stretching across the state. There’s even a provision for hunting buddies to apply as a group - in some cases up to four hunters can apply together on one application.
Eight free youth-only hunt categories are available to hunters who are between the ages of 8-16 at the time of application. All hunt positions are randomly selected in a computer drawing from all correctly completed entries received by the specified deadline.
In addition to exceptional hunting opportunities for big game, such as white-tailed deer and mule deer, TPWD's special drawing hunts will offer some unique opportunities. A guided bighorn sheep hunt at a West Texas wildlife management area will again be offered this year depending on the availability of a bighorn sheep permit.
There are also some unique guided hunt opportunities on Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area, including hunts for white-tailed deer, scimitar-horned oryx and gemsbok.
Hunters drawn in the special permit hunts are not required to use a tag off their hunting license on white-tailed or mule deer that are taken during the hunt. The hunters will be issued a free TPWD legal deer tag at the area when they bring their harvested animal to the check station. This will allow the public hunters additional opportunity to use their license tags.
In order to maintain current programs and services, public hunting permit fees have increased to $80 for the standard period drawn hunt permit fee, $130 for the extended period drawn hunt permit fee, and $20 for the Regular (daily) Permit fee. Non-refundable application fees for drawn hunt have not increased and remain $3-10 for each adult applicant 17 years of age or older. There are still no application fees or drawn hunt permit fees for youth age 8 to 16.
There are three new areas offering drawn public hunts this season: Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Lake Texana State Park and Stephen F. Austin State Park. In addition Pedernales Falls State Park and the Pedernales Falls State Park Annex will be offering public drawn hunts again.
Special Permit fees do not apply to drawn hunts for pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, guided hunts at Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area, and drawn hunts on private land. Application fees for the Guided hunt packages and private land hunts cost $10 per adult applicant.
The application deadline for alligator hunts is Aug. 5. For pronghorn antelope hunts on private land or the Rita Blanca National Grasslands north of Dalhart, the deadline is Aug. 12. Bowhunters also have until Aug. 12 to apply for special drawn public archery hunts. Entries for the general (gun) season deer hunts must be received by Sept. 3. Deadline for the Guided Bighorn Sheep Hunt is November 4.
Last year TPWD received 43,684 applications for the 5,739 positions offered in special drawn hunt categories.
Information and applications for Special Permit hunts are available on the Public Hunting Web site. Application booklets have been mailed to hunters who applied for special permit drawn hunts last year. The booklets are also available at TPWD law enforcement offices. Information about Special Permit drawn hunts can be found on-line or by calling toll free (800) 792-1112.
During the upcoming hunting seasons, almost 5,000 hunters will be selected through random computer drawings allowing access to some of the state's high-quality managed wildlife habitat. Wildlife management areas, state parks and leased private property will be available for these quality supervised hunts for white-tailed deer, mule deer, pronghorn, javelina, alligator, exotics, feral hog and spring turkey.
Through an application process, hunters can select from among 25 different hunt categories, including eight specifically for youth only, and choose a preferred hunt date and location from hunt areas stretching across the state. There’s even a provision for hunting buddies to apply as a group - in some cases up to four hunters can apply together on one application.
Eight free youth-only hunt categories are available to hunters who are between the ages of 8-16 at the time of application. All hunt positions are randomly selected in a computer drawing from all correctly completed entries received by the specified deadline.
In addition to exceptional hunting opportunities for big game, such as white-tailed deer and mule deer, TPWD's special drawing hunts will offer some unique opportunities. A guided bighorn sheep hunt at a West Texas wildlife management area will again be offered this year depending on the availability of a bighorn sheep permit.
There are also some unique guided hunt opportunities on Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area, including hunts for white-tailed deer, scimitar-horned oryx and gemsbok.
Hunters drawn in the special permit hunts are not required to use a tag off their hunting license on white-tailed or mule deer that are taken during the hunt. The hunters will be issued a free TPWD legal deer tag at the area when they bring their harvested animal to the check station. This will allow the public hunters additional opportunity to use their license tags.
In order to maintain current programs and services, public hunting permit fees have increased to $80 for the standard period drawn hunt permit fee, $130 for the extended period drawn hunt permit fee, and $20 for the Regular (daily) Permit fee. Non-refundable application fees for drawn hunt have not increased and remain $3-10 for each adult applicant 17 years of age or older. There are still no application fees or drawn hunt permit fees for youth age 8 to 16.
There are three new areas offering drawn public hunts this season: Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Lake Texana State Park and Stephen F. Austin State Park. In addition Pedernales Falls State Park and the Pedernales Falls State Park Annex will be offering public drawn hunts again.
Special Permit fees do not apply to drawn hunts for pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, guided hunts at Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area, and drawn hunts on private land. Application fees for the Guided hunt packages and private land hunts cost $10 per adult applicant.
The application deadline for alligator hunts is Aug. 5. For pronghorn antelope hunts on private land or the Rita Blanca National Grasslands north of Dalhart, the deadline is Aug. 12. Bowhunters also have until Aug. 12 to apply for special drawn public archery hunts. Entries for the general (gun) season deer hunts must be received by Sept. 3. Deadline for the Guided Bighorn Sheep Hunt is November 4.
Last year TPWD received 43,684 applications for the 5,739 positions offered in special drawn hunt categories.
Information and applications for Special Permit hunts are available on the Public Hunting Web site. Application booklets have been mailed to hunters who applied for special permit drawn hunts last year. The booklets are also available at TPWD law enforcement offices. Information about Special Permit drawn hunts can be found on-line or by calling toll free (800) 792-1112.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Monday, July 20, 2009
Texas Deer Association Hosts State's Largest Event for Whitetail
SAN ANTONIO - When it comes to a gathering of deer experts, breeders and authorities on raising whitetail and mule deer, it doesn't get any bigger and better than this. Year after year, the annual Texas Deer Association convention is the largest deer event in the State of Texas, and the 11th Annual TDA Convention next month promises to be the largest in history.
The Texas Deer Association (TDA) will host its 11th Annual Texas Deer Association's Convention on August 20, 2009, through August 23, 2009, at the Westin La Cantera Resort & Hotel in San Antonio. The annual event attracts thousands of deer enthusiasts from around the state, and brings together the heart of the Texas deer industry under one roof.
This year's event features more than 125 exhibitors from around the hunting and deer industries, fund-raising activities that award whitetail and exotic hunts, hunting equipment and firearms; and other exciting events, such as the 2009 Superior Genetics Whitetail Deer Auction and 2009 Select 30 Deer Auction, educational seminars on deer management, casino night and much more.
Also new at this year's event is the Laser Shot Virtual Hunter Challenge for adults and children. Provided in cooperation with the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance, the Laser Shot system utilizes projection and laser detection technology to give contestants and students the experience of sporting firearms. First-place winners will receive custom buckles and other great prizes include antler scoring kit by Game Management Solutions (GMS), antler mounting kit by Mountain Mike Reproductions and gun cleaning kits by Otis Technology.
"The TDA convention is the state's largest event of the year dedicated to whitetail and mule deer, and we are excited to once again welcome thousands of deer enthusiasts from across Texas and the country," says Karl Kinsel, executive director for the Texas Deer Association. "Unlike any other event in the state, this convention provides a great opportunity for industry experts, new and experienced deer breeders and sportsmen to network and learn about deer and, of course, it's a lot of fun too."
"The TDA Convention fills up quickly, so members wanting to attend should not delay in submitting registration forms," adds Marta Ramos, TDA director of operations. "We try our best to accommodate everyone, but our convention breaks attendance records every year and we're expecting another great event this year."
Since it was established in 1999, the Texas Deer Association has successfully worked to increase quality hunting experiences for all Texas hunters and to advocate wise management practices, promote research and technology regarding improvements to deer herds through the practice of controlled breeding and genetic improvements. As 'Proud Stewards of Texas Deer,' the TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds and growing the deer industry.
In addition to legislative efforts to help the industry, the TDA provides a year-round public education campaign for its members and other deer enthusiasts, which includes a full-color bimonthly publication, Tracks Magazine, that provides updates on current industry news, deer genetics, land management, ranching and game management issues.
To learn more about the Texas Deer Association or for membership information, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com or call 210.767.8300.
The Texas Deer Association (TDA) will host its 11th Annual Texas Deer Association's Convention on August 20, 2009, through August 23, 2009, at the Westin La Cantera Resort & Hotel in San Antonio. The annual event attracts thousands of deer enthusiasts from around the state, and brings together the heart of the Texas deer industry under one roof.
This year's event features more than 125 exhibitors from around the hunting and deer industries, fund-raising activities that award whitetail and exotic hunts, hunting equipment and firearms; and other exciting events, such as the 2009 Superior Genetics Whitetail Deer Auction and 2009 Select 30 Deer Auction, educational seminars on deer management, casino night and much more.
Also new at this year's event is the Laser Shot Virtual Hunter Challenge for adults and children. Provided in cooperation with the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance, the Laser Shot system utilizes projection and laser detection technology to give contestants and students the experience of sporting firearms. First-place winners will receive custom buckles and other great prizes include antler scoring kit by Game Management Solutions (GMS), antler mounting kit by Mountain Mike Reproductions and gun cleaning kits by Otis Technology.
"The TDA convention is the state's largest event of the year dedicated to whitetail and mule deer, and we are excited to once again welcome thousands of deer enthusiasts from across Texas and the country," says Karl Kinsel, executive director for the Texas Deer Association. "Unlike any other event in the state, this convention provides a great opportunity for industry experts, new and experienced deer breeders and sportsmen to network and learn about deer and, of course, it's a lot of fun too."
"The TDA Convention fills up quickly, so members wanting to attend should not delay in submitting registration forms," adds Marta Ramos, TDA director of operations. "We try our best to accommodate everyone, but our convention breaks attendance records every year and we're expecting another great event this year."
Since it was established in 1999, the Texas Deer Association has successfully worked to increase quality hunting experiences for all Texas hunters and to advocate wise management practices, promote research and technology regarding improvements to deer herds through the practice of controlled breeding and genetic improvements. As 'Proud Stewards of Texas Deer,' the TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds and growing the deer industry.
In addition to legislative efforts to help the industry, the TDA provides a year-round public education campaign for its members and other deer enthusiasts, which includes a full-color bimonthly publication, Tracks Magazine, that provides updates on current industry news, deer genetics, land management, ranching and game management issues.
To learn more about the Texas Deer Association or for membership information, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com or call 210.767.8300.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Texas Deer Association Makes 'Doe-nation' to The Children's Shelter
SAN ANTONIO - As the state's only non-profit organization dedicated to Texas deer, the Texas Deer Association (TDA) recently donated dozens of plush deer toys to The Children's Shelter in San Antonio. Stuffed animals are often used to help children who are in need or in distress due to abandonment or neglect, and TDA's cuddly fawn toys with their special eartags always bring smiles.
The TDA presented the plush deer to Oren Dreeben, president and CEO, and Anne Zbinden, vice president of community relations, for The Children's Shelter. Also in attendance were Shelter staff member Mike Vela and TDA representatives Karl Kinsel, Marta Ramos and John Meng.
"As the leading non-profit organization supporting the health and management of Texas deer, we are always interested in promoting deer, but we are part of a larger community too and we also want to support better care and promote awareness for the Texas children in need," says Karl Kinsel, executive director of the Texas Deer Association. "Whitetail and mule deer hold a special place in the hearts of most Texans and these little toys certainly bring smiles to the faces of a lot of children who are in need of special care and attention."
The TDA Plush Deer Program brings a warm and fuzzy approach to connecting with children and families in need. TDA directly donates the toy deer to various children-based charities in Texas and also makes the special-tagged fawns available for purchase online at www.TexasDeerAssociation.com. The TDA plush deer sells for $14.95 with a percentage of the proceeds from the on-line sales donated to Texas-based children’s charities throughout the year.
The Children's Shelter and other children service agencies across the state provide the basic needs, nutrition, healthcare and safe shelter for children in Texas communities who have been abandoned, abused and neglected. The use of stuffed animals is a big part of helping the children, when they are feeling the most vulnerable and afraid.
The Children's Shelter is a private, non-profit, nationally accredited corporation that has been providing services to San Antonio and Bexar County since 1901 and it was the first locally based child service agency in South Texas. The Children's Shelter's services have expanded from emergency shelter care to a continuum of care of emergency shelters, foster care, adoption, residential treatment care, child abuse prevention and teen pregnancy programs. The Shelter is a United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County agency, and is affiliated with the Texas Alliance of Child and Family Services.
The TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds through better habitat practices, modern harvest strategies and use of superior deer to enhance the deer herds. As a part of its public education efforts, the TDA publishes a full-color bimonthly magazine, Tracks, which updates TDA members on current legislative news, deer genetics and game management issues. The TDA also hosts an annual convention and trade show every August featuring fund-raising auctions, a deer auction, golf tournament and other events.
To learn more about the Texas Deer Association or for membership information, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com or call 210.767.8300.
Headquartered in San Antonio, the Texas Deer Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of native deer herds, and to developing ways to improve deer quality in Texas. For more information on the Texas Deer Association, call 210.767.8300 or visit www.texasdeerassociation.com.
The TDA presented the plush deer to Oren Dreeben, president and CEO, and Anne Zbinden, vice president of community relations, for The Children's Shelter. Also in attendance were Shelter staff member Mike Vela and TDA representatives Karl Kinsel, Marta Ramos and John Meng.
"As the leading non-profit organization supporting the health and management of Texas deer, we are always interested in promoting deer, but we are part of a larger community too and we also want to support better care and promote awareness for the Texas children in need," says Karl Kinsel, executive director of the Texas Deer Association. "Whitetail and mule deer hold a special place in the hearts of most Texans and these little toys certainly bring smiles to the faces of a lot of children who are in need of special care and attention."
The TDA Plush Deer Program brings a warm and fuzzy approach to connecting with children and families in need. TDA directly donates the toy deer to various children-based charities in Texas and also makes the special-tagged fawns available for purchase online at www.TexasDeerAssociation.com. The TDA plush deer sells for $14.95 with a percentage of the proceeds from the on-line sales donated to Texas-based children’s charities throughout the year.
The Children's Shelter and other children service agencies across the state provide the basic needs, nutrition, healthcare and safe shelter for children in Texas communities who have been abandoned, abused and neglected. The use of stuffed animals is a big part of helping the children, when they are feeling the most vulnerable and afraid.
The Children's Shelter is a private, non-profit, nationally accredited corporation that has been providing services to San Antonio and Bexar County since 1901 and it was the first locally based child service agency in South Texas. The Children's Shelter's services have expanded from emergency shelter care to a continuum of care of emergency shelters, foster care, adoption, residential treatment care, child abuse prevention and teen pregnancy programs. The Shelter is a United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County agency, and is affiliated with the Texas Alliance of Child and Family Services.
The TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds through better habitat practices, modern harvest strategies and use of superior deer to enhance the deer herds. As a part of its public education efforts, the TDA publishes a full-color bimonthly magazine, Tracks, which updates TDA members on current legislative news, deer genetics and game management issues. The TDA also hosts an annual convention and trade show every August featuring fund-raising auctions, a deer auction, golf tournament and other events.
To learn more about the Texas Deer Association or for membership information, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com or call 210.767.8300.
Headquartered in San Antonio, the Texas Deer Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of native deer herds, and to developing ways to improve deer quality in Texas. For more information on the Texas Deer Association, call 210.767.8300 or visit www.texasdeerassociation.com.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Texas' top hunters and land stewards recognized at Statewide Texas Big Game Awards Banquet
San Antonio - Fifteen hunters and landowners were honored on June 27 as part of the Statewide Texas Big Game Awards Banquet, held in conjunction with WildLife 2009, Texas Wildlife Association's 24th Annual Convention. The event recognized the contributions that landowners and responsible hunters make to managing and conserving wildlife and wildlife habitat on Texas' private lands.
Eight hunters or landowners were also awarded the coveted Texas Big Game Awards (TBGA) Texas Slam Award, an award that recognizes hunters and landowners who produced or harvested all three TBGA qualifying species (mule deer, whitetail, and pronghorn antelope) that have met the minimum scoring requirements within the region.
"These hunters and ranches are well deserving of this honor. All entries recognized at the 2008-2009 Texas Big Game Awards were selected from over 1,500 entries, and almost 1,000 scored entries were submitted," explained Texas Wildlife Association Vice President of Hunting Heritage David Brimager. "Because of our 18 year partnership with the Texas Wildlife Association (TWA) and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), the Texas Big Game Awards continues to be the leader in recognizing the important role ethical hunting and habitat management play in the lives of our young people."
Joseph Jones of Pattison and Joshua Cross of Alpine were also recognized as the recipients of the Carter's County TBGA College Scholarship. Jones and Cross each received a $3,000 college scholarship for the next school year.
The afternoon also included a display of the top 15 big game animals taken this past season, a keynote address by Speaker of the Texas House Joe Straus and recognition of the all-time top hall of fame awards; the top three TBGA state ranked entries, in each category (typical and non-typical white-tailed deer, typical and non-typical mule deer, and pronghorn antelope).
Texas Slam Award Recipients:
Top State Recipients, Category and Rank:
Non-Typical Mule Deer:
Danny Young in Gaines County (Best in Texas); Jason Stine in Gaines County (Second Best in Texas); James M. Moore and Wade Smith Farm in Gaines County (Third Best in Texas)
Typical Mule Deer:
Gary H. Shores in Oldham County (Best in Texas); Michael C. Smith and Roberts Ranch in Brewster County (Second Best in Texas); John Edwards in Bailey County (Third Best in Texas)
Pronghorn Antelope:
Tina Y. Buford in Hudspeth County (Best in Texas); Robert M. Anderson and Double U Cattle Co. in Hudspeth County (Second Best in Texas); Tamara Trail in Hudspeth County (Third Best in Texas)
Non-Typical Whitetail:
Mike Murski and Flint Creek Ranch in Bosque County (Best in Texas); William Shackelford and Lost Creek Ranch in Frio County (Second Best in Texas); Christopher Dwyer and RSP Ranch in Bosque County (Third Best in Texas)
Typical Whitetail:
Terry Hall and King Ranch in Kleberg County (Best in Texas); Bart Umphrey and Sand Mountain Ranch in Zavala County (Second Best in Texas); Steve Wright and W-5 Ranch in Kimble County (Third Best in Texas)
The Texas Big Game Awards is proudly sponsored by: Statewide Sponsors Hixon Land and Cattle Company, Carter's Country Outdoor Stores, and Budweiser. Texas Regional Sponsors include: Remington Arms, Leupold and Stevens, Gerber Legendary Blades, Plano Moldings, Thompson Center Arms, C. Young and Company, Mossy Oak Brand Camo, Tecomate Wildlife Systems, Smith’s Abrasives, Hunter’s Specialties, Moultrie Feeders, ThermaCell, Wildgame Innovations, Academy Sports and Outdoors, Texas Hunt Co., Drury Outdoors, Wild Game Innovations, Bog Gear, Cocoon ATV Products, Game Guard, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, Otis Technologies, and Record Rack Premium Game Feeds.
Texas Big Game Awards (TBGA), a partnership of Texas Wildlife Association (TWA) and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), continues to be a leader in recognizing the contributions that landowners, land managers and responsible hunters make to managing and conserving wildlife and wildlife habitat on Texas’ private lands.
For additional information on attending the state convention or the Texas Big Game Awards, contact David Brimager at dbrimager@texas-wildlife.org, (800) 839-9453, ext. 114 or visit the Texas Big Game Awards website at http://www.texasbiggameawards.com/.
Eight hunters or landowners were also awarded the coveted Texas Big Game Awards (TBGA) Texas Slam Award, an award that recognizes hunters and landowners who produced or harvested all three TBGA qualifying species (mule deer, whitetail, and pronghorn antelope) that have met the minimum scoring requirements within the region.
"These hunters and ranches are well deserving of this honor. All entries recognized at the 2008-2009 Texas Big Game Awards were selected from over 1,500 entries, and almost 1,000 scored entries were submitted," explained Texas Wildlife Association Vice President of Hunting Heritage David Brimager. "Because of our 18 year partnership with the Texas Wildlife Association (TWA) and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), the Texas Big Game Awards continues to be the leader in recognizing the important role ethical hunting and habitat management play in the lives of our young people."
Joseph Jones of Pattison and Joshua Cross of Alpine were also recognized as the recipients of the Carter's County TBGA College Scholarship. Jones and Cross each received a $3,000 college scholarship for the next school year.
The afternoon also included a display of the top 15 big game animals taken this past season, a keynote address by Speaker of the Texas House Joe Straus and recognition of the all-time top hall of fame awards; the top three TBGA state ranked entries, in each category (typical and non-typical white-tailed deer, typical and non-typical mule deer, and pronghorn antelope).
Texas Slam Award Recipients:
- Keith R. Eason- Ranches/Counties hunter harvested game: Oldham County; McBride Ranch of Burnet County; Double U Cattle Co of Hudspeth County
- Milton Harrell-Ranches/Counties hunter harvested game: Burton’s Hunting Service of Brewster and Kimble Counties
- Rick Meritt-Ranches/Counties hunter harvested game: McGuire Ranch of Gaines County; Buxton Ranch of Bosque County; Hudspeth County
- Justin Trail-Ranches/Counties hunter harvested game: Gaines, Bosque and Hudspeth County
- Robert Williams, Jr.-Ranches/Counties hunter harvested game: Sierra Blanca Ranch of Hudspeth County; RW Trophy Ranch of Hunt County
- Robert Williams Sr.-Ranches/Counties hunter harvested game: Sierra Blanca Ranch of Hudspeth County; RW Trophy Ranch of Hunt County
- Donald Starks- Ranches/Counties hunter harvested game: Hudspeth County, and Duncan Ranch of Lampasas County
- Carson Sims-Ranches/Counties hunter harvested game: Hudspeth and Atascosa County
Top State Recipients, Category and Rank:
Non-Typical Mule Deer:
Danny Young in Gaines County (Best in Texas); Jason Stine in Gaines County (Second Best in Texas); James M. Moore and Wade Smith Farm in Gaines County (Third Best in Texas)
Typical Mule Deer:
Gary H. Shores in Oldham County (Best in Texas); Michael C. Smith and Roberts Ranch in Brewster County (Second Best in Texas); John Edwards in Bailey County (Third Best in Texas)
Pronghorn Antelope:
Tina Y. Buford in Hudspeth County (Best in Texas); Robert M. Anderson and Double U Cattle Co. in Hudspeth County (Second Best in Texas); Tamara Trail in Hudspeth County (Third Best in Texas)
Non-Typical Whitetail:
Mike Murski and Flint Creek Ranch in Bosque County (Best in Texas); William Shackelford and Lost Creek Ranch in Frio County (Second Best in Texas); Christopher Dwyer and RSP Ranch in Bosque County (Third Best in Texas)
Typical Whitetail:
Terry Hall and King Ranch in Kleberg County (Best in Texas); Bart Umphrey and Sand Mountain Ranch in Zavala County (Second Best in Texas); Steve Wright and W-5 Ranch in Kimble County (Third Best in Texas)
The Texas Big Game Awards is proudly sponsored by: Statewide Sponsors Hixon Land and Cattle Company, Carter's Country Outdoor Stores, and Budweiser. Texas Regional Sponsors include: Remington Arms, Leupold and Stevens, Gerber Legendary Blades, Plano Moldings, Thompson Center Arms, C. Young and Company, Mossy Oak Brand Camo, Tecomate Wildlife Systems, Smith’s Abrasives, Hunter’s Specialties, Moultrie Feeders, ThermaCell, Wildgame Innovations, Academy Sports and Outdoors, Texas Hunt Co., Drury Outdoors, Wild Game Innovations, Bog Gear, Cocoon ATV Products, Game Guard, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, Otis Technologies, and Record Rack Premium Game Feeds.
Texas Big Game Awards (TBGA), a partnership of Texas Wildlife Association (TWA) and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), continues to be a leader in recognizing the contributions that landowners, land managers and responsible hunters make to managing and conserving wildlife and wildlife habitat on Texas’ private lands.
For additional information on attending the state convention or the Texas Big Game Awards, contact David Brimager at dbrimager@texas-wildlife.org, (800) 839-9453, ext. 114 or visit the Texas Big Game Awards website at http://www.texasbiggameawards.com/.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Friday, July 10, 2009
It's Time
While my cabin's been keeping me busy, I am just now getting around to placing some game cameras.
Where I live in Texas the country is wide open. Therefore, there's no better way to scout than to record what's coming to a water trough.
Today, in the 109-degree heat, I placed a M.A.D. motion sensing video camera and a Cuddeback game camera. I'll leave it alone for a week or so and I'll check back to see if any big bucks are coming around.
I'll keep you posted.
-Russell
Labels: Russell Graves, Texas
Friday, July 3, 2009
Hunting Cabin Part 2
After a tough week of plumbing and electrical work, the little house on the blackland prairie is starting to take shape.
I can't wait to finish this project.
I can't wait to finish this project.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
Hunting Cabin Part 1
I was going to name this post "Blog Cabin" because I thought I would be able to post images as the construction slowly took place.
However, building began while I was away and so my brother Bubba keeps me updated on the swift construction progress.
A few months ago, my wife and I decided it would be a good idea to build a small cabin on our land close to where we both grew up in Northeast Texas some 250 miles from where we live in the Texas Panhandle. Call our pending lifestyle bi-residential if you will.
While the cabin is a place to stay when me and my gang goes to visit our family and friends, it will also serve as a cool photo prop. When complete the cabin will feature:
- a rustic look perfect for hunting and/or fishing camp shots;
- a country-inspired interior for rural lifestyle photos;
- ample windows for plenty of natural lighting;
- and a broad east-facing front porch for great morning light.
Anyway, while getting started on the construction was painfully slow, it went blazingly fast once the framing crew began. These two images were taken 24-hours apart and show how fast this thing really went up.
It isn't a big place but big enough for sleeping quarters. If you've ever stayed in a hotel suite at a Residence Inn the place is roughly the size of those room. By no means big enough to make a permanent residence but perfect for sleeping, some light cooking, and hanging out.
We've been inspired to go green as well. The walls are framed with recycled lumber pieces finger-jointed together to make the pieces stronger that first-cut lumber. Ample windows allow plenty of natural light and eliminate the need for using a bunch of electricity during the daylight hours, and the water system will consist of captured rainwater, double osomosis filtered and supply a low-flow shower head, toilet, and kitchen and bathroom faucets.
Furthermore, we're installing a U-panel, Galvalume roof which will direct more heat away from the ventilated attic space. For now, we've wrapped the house in a Tyvek material and will insulate the attic with a cellulose material to further reduce the energy expenditures to heat and cool the place.
The cabin's exterior will be lapped Hardy Plank siding stained with a cedar stain.
Should be a neat place.
Labels: News, Russell Graves, Texas
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