Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is northwest of Austin, Texas. It was established in 1992 to conserve habitat for two songbirds – the golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo – and to maintain habitat for numerous other wildlife species native to the area. The refuge features varied topography, with many steep-banked streams and canyons. The vegetation is a mix of woodlands, shrublands and oak savannas. Each year a few lucky hunters are selected to experience big game and dove hunting in this beautiful part of the Texas Hill Country. All hunts are by permit only, and state lottery drawings to provide an excellent opportunity for public hunting in a private-lands state. The big game hunts are conducted over several weekends in the fall and include a youth hunt for hunters ages 9-16. Hunters with disabilities are encouraged to contact the refuge manager if special accommodations are needed. Hunters may take up to five white-tailed deer and one turkey (either sex). Feral hogs are common on the refuge, and unlimited feral hogs may be taken during the hunt. Hunters are assigned to hunting compartments and may move around within that compartment. Temporary blinds are permitted, and some compartments have permanent blinds. Baiting and hunting with dogs is prohibited. Hunters who take advantage of the scouting weekend before the hunt often have good success with white-tailed deer.
The 2024 Dove Hunt will take place on September 1-4, 2024. There is a $20 cash only permit fee that gives you access to all four days of the hunt. Call the office at 512-339-9432 or email Balcones_Canyonlands@fws.gov for more information.
