Texas Hunting Forum

What is the earliest you can show up?

Posted By: FreakinMitchell

What is the earliest you can show up? - 08/20/19 07:16 PM

Looking to beat the crowd at some public dove properties. Was planning to show up to the land as early as 4:30am but I didn't want to get in trouble.
Posted By: Lalo

Re: What is the earliest you can show up? - 08/20/19 09:05 PM

First, a more practical answer: I think if the book for the specific area doesn't say anything, you can get there as early as you want. For example, on some duck hunting areas, it says no entry before 4 or 4:30 a.m. If it doesn't specify, I can't find where there would be a general restriction, unless someone else knows better.
A more somber answer: If you are in the Houston area, and this is your first time with public dove, you will get there very early and then regret it. My first time, I treated it like duck hunting. Scouting day before, there are 4. The guys who poured in 15 minutes before LST still crowded in within 30 yards either side of me on the fence line. Never again.
Posted By: FreakinMitchell

Re: What is the earliest you can show up? - 08/21/19 01:12 AM

Yeah, this will be my first public hunt. Sounds like you're saying no matter how early I get there people will show up and crowd me.
Posted By: Herbie Hancock

Re: What is the earliest you can show up? - 08/21/19 01:14 AM

Don't be shocked when it happens.
Posted By: AbeLinkkin

Re: What is the earliest you can show up? - 08/21/19 03:08 PM

Opening day on public land is VERY rarely worth the hassle. Guaranteed you will have people come in right at shooting time and crowd you.

Last time I hunted public land opening day the dove were long gone 10 minutes after shooting time. After two weeks or so people will stop going and you may have more luck. Also try to go during the week when alot less people are out.
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