What Game Species Are Hunted in Texas?

How does Texas hunting differ from the rest of the country?

Texas is one of the top hunting destinations in the United States, offering vast landscapes and a wide variety of game animals. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, understanding what animals are hunted in Texas can enhance the hunting experience is the key to success.

Our team at Silent Armament Forge is going to break down exactly what type of game you can expect to encounter in the great state of Texas, as well as some other pro-tips. Let’s take a look.

Popular Game Animals in Texas

Texas is home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife, making it a prime location for hunting. Some of the most commonly hunted animals include:

1. White-Tailed Deer

White-tailed deer are the most popular game species in Texas, with an estimated population of over four million. The state offers various hunting seasons and bag limits depending on the region. Deer hunting is particularly popular in the Hill Country, South Texas, and the Panhandle. Hunters pursue these deer using rifles, bows, and muzzleloaders, making for a dynamic and varied hunting experience.

2. Feral Hogs

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Texas has a major feral hog problem, with millions of these destructive animals wreaking havoc on agriculture and ecosystems. There are no bag limits or seasonal restrictions on hunting feral hogs, making them a year-round target for hunters. A few companies have actually made hog hunting a tourist attraction in Texas, offering the opportunity to hunt from a helicopter while they fly you around the fields.

Aside from that, many Texas hunters use suppressors to minimize noise disturbance when managing hog populations. Night hunting is also popular, as it helps reduce hog numbers more effectively. Thermal optics and suppressors are often used together to ensure stealth and efficiency, making sure that every shot counts.

3. Rio Grande Turkey

Turkey hunting is another favorite pastime in Texas, particularly in the spring and fall. The Rio Grande turkey is the most common subspecies, offering challenging yet rewarding hunts. The state regulates turkey hunting through a combination of bag limits and seasonal restrictions, ensuring sustainable population levels. Many hunters use shotguns with specialized chokes to maximize their chances of a clean shot.

4. Exotics (Axis Deer, Blackbuck, Aoudad, and More)

Texas has a thriving exotic game hunting industry, with species such as axis deer, blackbuck antelope, and aoudad sheep being commonly pursued. Many of these animals can be hunted year-round on private ranches, providing a unique opportunity for hunters to experience exotic species without traveling internationally. Axis deer are particularly prized for their lean meat and impressive antlers.

Not only that, but it is a huge business to hunt African game in Texas. There are even rhinos in Texas that have been bought and shipped to the US that live like wild rhinos. Some say that it is amazing how much of Texas actually resembles northern South Africa and Namibia.

5. Waterfowl (Ducks and Geese)

The Texas Gulf Coast, lakes, and reservoirs provide excellent opportunities for duck and goose hunting. The state has established seasons and bag limits for waterfowl hunting, ensuring responsible management of migratory bird populations. Many hunters set up decoy spreads and use specialized duck calls to attract birds into range. Waterfowl hunting is often done in blinds near lakes, marshes, and coastal areas.

6. Predators and Varmints (Coyotes, Bobcats, and More)

Predator and varmint hunting is widespread across Texas, with coyotes and bobcats being primary targets. Many hunters use night vision or thermal optics along with suppressors to improve their efficiency when hunting predators. Predator hunting is not only exciting but also serves an important ecological function, as controlling predator populations helps maintain balanced ecosystems. Additionally, varmints like raccoons and skunks are often hunted to reduce damage to crops and property.

The Benefits of Using Suppressors for Hunting in Texas

While you can certainly hunt without any attachments, having a suppressor can be a true game changer for you. Hunting with a suppressor is becoming increasingly popular in Texas, and for good reason. Suppressors, often referred to as silencers, offer several advantages that improve the overall hunting experience.

1. Noise Reduction

One of the main benefits of using a suppressor is reducing the noise generated by gunfire. This is particularly useful when hunting in areas where excessive noise can disturb wildlife or livestock. Suppressors can make hunting more enjoyable and reduce hearing damage for hunters. Many hunters suffer from hearing loss due to repeated exposure to gunfire, and suppressors significantly mitigate this risk.

2. Increased Stealth

Suppressors allow hunters to remain undetected by game animals, especially when targeting multiple hogs or predators. The reduced sound signature prevents animals from scattering immediately after the first shot, giving hunters more opportunities. This is particularly beneficial for feral hog and coyote hunting, where multiple animals are often present at once.

3. Improved Accuracy

Suppressors can also help to minimize recoil and muzzle rise, which leads to better shot placement. This is especially important when making long-range shots on deer, exotics, or predators. By reducing recoil, suppressors allow hunters to maintain better control over their firearms and make follow-up shots more quickly and accurately.

4. Legal

Texas has favorable suppressor laws, making it one of the best states for suppressor ownership. Thanks to the Texas Suppressor Freedom Act, Texas residents can legally own and use suppressors that are made in Texas for hunting without federal intervention, as long as the suppressor remains within state borders. 

This law has encouraged more hunters to invest in suppressors for their firearms, making them more widely accepted and utilized.

5. Better Hunting Ethics

Hunting with a suppressor promotes ethical shot placement by allowing hunters to remain focused and calm without the anticipation of loud gunfire. This leads to cleaner, more humane kills. Ethical hunting is a cornerstone of responsible wildlife management, and suppressors contribute to making each shot as effective and humane as possible.

6. Reduced Disturbance to Others

Whether hunting on private land or near residential areas, suppressors help reduce noise pollution, making hunting less disruptive to landowners, other hunters, and nearby residents. This is particularly beneficial for those who hunt on leased land or in areas where noise complaints could be an issue.

7. Enhanced Training Opportunities

Using a suppressor allows hunters to practice more effectively, as the reduced noise and recoil make training sessions more comfortable. Many new shooters are intimidated by the loud noise and recoil of firearms, but suppressors help create a more enjoyable learning experience. As a result, suppressors encourage more hunters to refine their skills and improve their marksmanship.

8. Compatibility with Various Firearms

Modern suppressors are highly versatile and can be used on multiple firearms with the correct adapters. Whether hunting with a bolt-action rifle, AR-platform rifle, or even a shotgun, suppressors provide valuable benefits. Many manufacturers offer suppressors specifically designed for hunting applications, ensuring that hunters can find the right option for their needs.

Where to Buy a Suppressor in Texas

When it comes to purchasing a suppressor in Texas, it requires following legal regulations, which can include the tax stamp and purchasing from a licensed dealer. One of the best suppliers to buy suppressors in Texas is Silent Armament Forge, known for its high-quality suppressors like the FNG Day1 and the Vigilantis; not to mention the excellent customer service.

They offer a great selection of suppressors for various calibers and firearm platforms, ensuring you find the right fit for your needs.

Conclusion

Texas offers some of the best hunting opportunities in the country, with a wide variety of game species to pursue year-round. Using a suppressor enhances the hunting experience by reducing noise, improving accuracy, and minimizing disturbance. With Texas' gun-friendly laws, hunters can take advantage of suppressors to make their hunts more effective and enjoyable. Whether you’re hunting white-tailed deer, feral hogs, or predators, a suppressor is a valuable tool that provides numerous benefits in the field.

As suppressors become more widely accepted and accessible, more Texas hunters are recognizing their advantages. If you’re serious about hunting in Texas, investing in a quality suppressor can make a significant difference in your overall experience. From improved stealth and accuracy to protecting your hearing and promoting ethical hunting practices, suppressors are a game-changer for modern hunters.

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