I'm new to Texas and trying to get a handle on hunting regulations. I was just reading about the Annual Public Hunter permits. It seems like a good opportunity for those that don't have access to a ranch or other private lands. Do any of you go this route and is it worth it? I really want to take my daughter to get her first deer this year (just turning 12). I'd also like to take advantage of being able to hunt something most of the year. Best way to put meat in the skillet, in my book. Any advise is more than welcome.

Thanks.

lots of land to hunt. Have to work hard to find the good places but they are there. I would concentrate on those farthest away from big cities.

On the one hand, its worth it... especially for small game, birds, and pigs. On the other hand, I will never do a walk-in public hunt during rifle season again. The few places that allow rifle deer hunting are nuts during rifle season. Archery is okay, though. Otherwise, look into the draw-in public hunts.

I was thinking about getting an APH for this season as well, but only for hogs and coyotes and stuff like that, maybe turkey...

I don't have any buddies that have one, usually lease, but I wanted an extra opportunity to hunt this season. Can you acquire an APH at your local outdoor store, or where do you get one through?

For all of your public land hunting needs:

Public land hunting

Can get them at any place that sells licenses

to the forum. Good to hear you're raising your daughter with an outdoors mindset. Come June, I recommend applying for as many youth draw hunts as possible. Much higher success rate than other public hunting methods.

I've always wondered since I'm just a youngin... Do I have to have an adult with me to get my APH and my new hunting license, or is 17 old enough to get it on my own?

Thanks for all the great info guys . It's much appreciated. I'm really looking forward to hunting here.

Go to texasyouthhunting.com and sign her up for the Texas Youth Hunting Program. It is a great program. You will both enjoy it.

I get the APH permit every year. I have never felt like my life was in danger. Are you going to run into an idiot from time to time? Yes. But guess what. You will run into the same type of idiot if you get on a lease.




And if you really wanted to start a debate over safety: What do you think the percentage is of people who drink while hunting on private is compared to that of public? I'd say it is significantly higher on private leases.

^^^^
Very good point. I've always perceived more danger from snakes/heat than any 2 legged creatures.

This is a little over-stated. The WMA where I hunt deer is crowded on opening weekend, but I have been there on other weekends during deer season when I was the only hunter on 1,000 acres. I would imagine you could also find solitude at bigger spots like Sam Houston, etc.