I’m not a waterfowl hunter at all, never been and really have no interest or opportunity to go. However, for as long as I can remember we have always had sand hill cranes within proximity to our place. We’ve always deer hunted and never tried to kill any. My brother and I have essentially tagged out already this year so I would like to try and hunt some. My question is, what federal stamp do I need? TPWD app says I need a Federal Sandhill permit. When I go to purchase one on the TPWD website, the only one I see is the Federal “Duck” stamp. Is there something I’m missing or are they the same?

They are not the same, crane stamp is item #590

From the TPWD site;

Texas Migratory Game Bird Endorsement
Required for the following:

Hunt any migratory game bird (waterfowl, coot, rail, gallinule, snipe, dove, sandhill crane, and woodcock)
In combination with a Federal Duck Stamp and HIP Certification for waterfowl hunters 16 years of age and older
A free Federal Sandhill Crane Hunting Permit is required to hunt sandhill cranes, which is available at TPWD Law Enforcement offices, online, or by calling (800) 792-1112 #4820#.

I didn’t think so. Thanks for the clarification, I got it now. For some reason when I initially went to the site to purchase, the duck stamp was the only one offered. When I went back, it showed the crane stamp.

Don't think a duck stamp is required to hunt sandhills. Lead shot may also be used.

You are correct.

I just called TPWD and they sent me a permit, it was free.

Call TPWD in Austin and tell them you need a federal sandhill crane permit. They will send it to you by mail It is free, no charge

Somebody riddle me this:

If the crane permit is free, why the hell do you need a permit to hunt cranes?

They like to know how many people are hunting them.

I get one every year; have yet to hunt a crane

I like it! Keep em guessing.