Runnels County

Recently signed on a lease(450 acres) in Northern Runnels county just West of Pumphrey, TX. Quail and dove population is excellent, but the lack of thick cover has me somewhat concerned as to the deer herd. The lease is surrounded by wheat fields, which I hear is key to the area. If you have any insight as to what I should expect in relations to deer herd/deer size it would be greatly appreciated. Also wondering about the turkey hunting in the area if you happen to be familiar.

to the forum.

Provide the deer water and food and they will visit regularly.

Good luck.

The deer around here do love the wheat fields. The wheat will fill up with does, but don't expect to see a lot of mature bucks out there. It happens, but they tend to stick to cover and will scent check the fields from there. They mainly use the mesquite thickets as cover, but will use tall grass, as well, especially between bedding and feeding areas.

Thanks for the info guys!

Yes, the deer love winter wheat. High in protein and keeps them coming back. Supplement with a corn feeder on the edge of the field or in heavier brush to attract the older bucks and you should be good to go. Of course with a 450 acre lease, expect your neighbors to shoot any high quality deer if you don't...so harvest them early in the season.

Thats about what I was thinking. We were told we'd be the only deer hunters in the immediate area, so I'll let them walk until I start hearing gunshots. We'll start feeding in the next couple of weeks. Can't wait to get a game camera out there. After hunting Sabine National Forest for the past few years, this should be a nice change of pace.

Good deer population. The only thing is people will not let the 2-4 year olds grow up. Wish people would shoot does for meat. Let them walk!