Thought I had replied to this already....Im lossing my memory.
As far as free land in Texas..wel lgood luck with that!
Even if you marry into it it might still not be free.

The APH is the best bet.
Despite severals discomfort with TPWD,they do as wel las they could for a state that is 98% behind lock and key and not all of it is even allowed or marketed,ie open for day or lease hunting at any amount of $$$$!
Yes....thats right... not all privatel lands and ranches allow hunting, atleast year after year!
Best bet use the APH ,scout the areas and learn the seasons work your time off and the calnder to your best bet.
Most folks cram the weekends and especially opening weekends.
Your down by the SHNF. A very good bet,160000 plus acres divided amongst Walker,Montgomery and San Jacinto counties.
Start a small fund for next year now. Put a few dolalrs away every check and you can either Hunt APH and maybe a few day hunts on pay leases or save enough to geto na a lease. Some can still be had for less than $1000 a season.
If you find anyone you know that has land even smaller acrerage but with game,offer to hel pwork the palce in exchange for acouple days hunting.
Again good luck!