TPWD offers final steps to prepare for hunting season

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is sharing final steps to help hunters get ready for the upcoming season, from scouting their hunting area to properly caring for and processing harvested game.

In the final installment of a three-part hunting season preparation series, TPWD outlines last-minute steps to ensure hunters are prepared from the moment they enter the field all the way through processing their harvest.

Scouting your area

Effective scouting can greatly increase your chances of success. TPWD recommends scouting several weeks before the season and continuing to check the area periodically. Hunters should look for tracks, trails, feeding areas, bedding sites, water sources, and signs of recent activity. Using maps, trail cameras, and observation sessions at sunrise or sunset can help familiarize yourself with animal movement patterns.

Field care, processing and storage

Once a hunt is successful, proper care of game meat is essential. TPWD says hunters should tag their game, field dress and skin the animal as soon as possible to cool the meat, and quarter the animal to make transport easier and ensure cleanliness. Meat should be stored on ice or in cold storage until it can be processed further. Hunters can also consider professional processors or learn at-home techniques for butchering and packaging.

Time to purchase your license

Texas hunting licenses go on sale each August for the upcoming hunting year. Purchasing early ensures you are ready for opening day and supports wildlife conservation and habitat management across the state.