The Best Time of Year to Hunt Exotics in the Texas Hill Country

Exotics can be hunted year-round in Texas. Here is how the seasons, the ruts and the weather shape the best time for your hunt.

Because Texas sets no seasons on exotic animals, the real question isn't when you are allowed to hunt. It is when the hunting is best for the animal you want. The answer depends on the species, the rut, and how you feel about Hill Country heat.

Spring

Mild days, green country and wildflowers. Spring is a comfortable time to hunt plains game such as springbok, impala and blesbok, and animals move well through the morning and late afternoon.

Summer

Summer is hot, but it is prime time for axis deer. Many bucks are in hard antler and the rut is usually at its peak in early summer, when bucks bellow and move. Hunts start at first light, rest through the heat of the day, and pick back up in the evening. Water matters this time of year, and animals like waterbuck and Père David's deer stay close to the tanks.

Fall

Cooler mornings bring back long days in the field. Fall is when the red stag rut, and the roar of a big stag carries across the hills. It is a favorite season for multi-species hunts.

Winter

Cold, clear mornings, thinner cover and animals feeding through the day. Winter is excellent for heavy-coated animals and for long stalks on aoudad, eland and kudu.

Our advice

Choose the animal first, then the season. If you want several species, tell us when you reserve and we'll suggest the time of year that gives you the best chance at all of them.