Hello fellow hunters! I moved to Texas about 6 months ago from Michigan and now reside in Collin County. What would be my options for me to venture out and do some whitetail hunting? Are the public lands generally over populated? I have 2 young sons that I would also like to get involved in hunting but would like to feel safe in doing so. Any thoughts or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Very little public land in Texas. Texas Parks and Wildlife does offer some public hunting, should be info on their website. Army Corp of Engineers allows hunting around some of the lakes they control.

Your best bet for success is to find a lease to join. Might try befriending co-workers and associates that hunt and get a group together, then find a place to lease and split the costs.

Very little public lands in Texas. As such, leasing has become a significant source of income for farmers and ranchers. TPWD offers some draw hunts, but hurry. The deadlines are quickly approaching. Go to their website and sign up on-line.

Third options is to find guided/outfitted hunts. You can begin by looking at the Guides & Outfitters section of this forum. Hunts will only be a few days in length but generally high success rates. Father/son hunts are often available. Good luck.

There is Caddo national grass lands in Fannin county not to far from you. Not bad hunting, not to crowded.

Where in Michigan?

First,

Good lawd Hogslayer, it isn't a "where", it's a tire brand, geeeeze

Thanks all! I'm coming from the Detroit area, more specifically Macomb Twp. I may check out the Caddo Grassland area and start networking. Thanks again for the advice!

Hi, I went to the Caddo Grasslands 901N this weekend, opening deer season. The day was sunny and warm, but so much orange out that it looked like there was a parade going on.
I sure hope that the next few weeks a lot of the guys decide to stay in on the weekend.

Anyone out there have experience in this area, does it get better after opening day?

Thanks, Tom

Being from the Detroit area, do you hold your shotgun sideways when you shoot? I grew up a few hours north of you.

Western... Sorry

I hunted public lands for years...and if you're gonna be taking your sons I would go check things out by myself and figure out where you'd want to hunt, assuming you're gonna check out Caddo, and then after Thanksgiving things generally slowed down dramatically which should provide you and your sons an opportunity to hunt in a more safe environment.

Oh...and to Texas!