Sandhill cranes are large migratory birds that pass through Texas each year during their migration. If you want to hunt sandhill cranes in Texas, you’ll need to get a specific permit from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your sandhill crane permit in Texas.
Sandhill Crane Permit Overview
In Texas, sandhill crane hunting is limited and controlled through a permit system. Each year, TPWD authorizes a certain number of permits through a drawing system. Here are some key facts about the sandhill crane permit in Texas:
- Permits are issued through an annual drawing system – you must apply for entry into the drawing each year.
- There is a set quota of permits issued – in 2022, there was a quota of 400 total permits.
- You must have a valid Texas hunting license to apply for a sandhill crane permit.
- Permits are issued to individuals – each person must apply separately.
- There is a non-refundable application fee to enter the drawing.
- Successful applicants are randomly selected through the drawing.
- Drawing results are posted online in early October each year.
- The season for sandhill crane hunting runs from late October to late January.
So in summary, sandhill crane permits are limited and you must enter an annual drawing to have a chance at being selected. You’ll need a valid Texas hunting license before applying. Now let’s look at the step-by-step process to apply for the drawing and get your sandhill crane permit.
Apply for the Drawing
The first step is to apply for entry into the sandhill crane permit drawing. Here’s how to apply:
- Make sure you have a valid Texas hunting license for the season you are applying for. You must have this license before applying for the drawing.
- Applications open in early summer each year, usually in June or July.
- Applications can be submitted online through the TPWD website, by phone, or by visiting TPWD offices in person.
- There is a non-refundable $10 application fee per applicant.
- You can list up to 5 hunt zone preferences when applying.
- The application period closes in early September each year.
So in summer, look for information on the application period opening and submit your application with fee before the deadline in September. Be sure to have your valid Texas hunting license ready.
Check Drawing Results
After the application period closes, TPWD will conduct the random drawing to select successful applicants. Here’s how to check the results:
- Drawing results are typically posted in early October each year.
- Results will be posted on the TPWD sandhill crane permit webpage.
- You’ll need your date of birth and TPWD ID number to look up results.
- The results will indicate if you were successfully drawn or not.
- Successful applicants will receive detailed information on completing their permit.
So in early October, check the TPWD website using your ID information to see if you were drawn. If selected, you’ll receive next steps from TPWD on finalizing your permit.
Complete Permit Process
If you are successfully drawn in the lottery, there are a few additional steps to complete your permit process:
- Review the email and information sent by TPWD carefully.
- You will need to make your hunt zone selection if you listed multiple preferences.
- There will be a final permit fee to pay, usually around $40.
- You may need to complete an orientation program for crane hunting.
- Print out temporary permits until you receive your permit in the mail.
- Review rules, regulations, season dates, and reporting requirements.
Follow all TPWD instructions carefully in selecting your hunt zone, paying the permit fee, and completing any orientation requirements. This will ensure your permit is processed correctly.
Go Hunting
Once you receive your validated sandhill crane hunting permit, you’ll be ready to head out during crane season. Here are some key tips for your hunt:
- Study the season dates, bag limits, and hunting zone boundaries.
- Scout areas ahead of time to locate cranes.
- Use decoys and calls to attract cranes during hunting.
- Aim for the head/neck for clean harvesting.
- Have your permit and hunting license during every hunt.
- Follow reporting requirements on any harvested cranes.
Be sure to follow all rules and regulations for the season. Practice safety and ethics during your crane hunts. With your permit in hand, you’ll be set for special opportunity to harvest sandhill cranes.
Key Application Dates
Here is a summary of the key dates in the sandhill crane permit process in Texas:
Early summer | Application period opens (usually June or July) |
Early September | Application deadline |
Early October | Drawing results posted online |
October | Crane season opens (season dates vary yearly) |
Be sure to check current year dates on the TPWD website each summer as the exact dates can vary year to year. Planning ahead helps ensure you don’t miss key deadlines in the process.
Application Tips
Here are some key tips for smooth sailing during the sandhill crane permit application process:
- Double check you have a valid Texas hunting license before applying.
- Review hunt zone maps and list multiple preferences.
- Save your TPWD ID number to simplify checking results.
- Make note of important dates/deadlines in your calendar.
- Follow all instructions carefully if successfully drawn.
- Apply early to avoid last minute issues.
Having your license ready, understanding the hunt zones, and tracking key dates will set you up for success. Applying as early as possible can help avoid potential missed deadlines.
Reasons for Applying
Wondering why go through the permit application process at all? Here are some top reasons to apply for a sandhill crane permit in Texas:
- Limited opportunity – The restricted number of permits makes this a unique hunting opportunity.
- Large birds – Sandhill cranes can have up to a 7-foot wingspan, making them impressive game.
- Sporting challenge – Their wariness can make cranes a challenging bird to hunt.
- Meat and feathers – Cranes provide useful meat and beautiful feathers.
- Population control – The limited hunts help control sandhill crane populations.
- Annual tradition – Following the permit process yearly can be enjoyable.
The limited chance to hunt these giant birds in Texas makes the application worthwhile for many hunters. The challenge and rewards of harvesting cranes continues the hunting tradition.
Sandhill Crane Facts
Here are some interesting facts about the large sandhill cranes that pass through Texas each year:
- Height up to 5 feet with a wingspan around 7 feet
- Adults weigh 8-14 pounds on average
- Omnivores, eating insects, aquatic plants, seeds, grains, more
- Distinctive red cap on their head
- Travel huge distances during migration
- Known for their unique vocalizations
- Mate for life, pairs stay together year-round
- Threatened by habitat loss and urbanization
Sandhill cranes stand as one of the largest bird species seen in North America. Their annual migrations take them thousands of miles between wintering and breeding grounds. Their unique appearance and vocalizations make them iconic wildlife.
Conclusion
Getting a sandhill crane hunting permit requires careful planning and coordination each year in Texas. But successfully acquiring a permit provides the chance for a highly rewarding hunt. The limited opportunity to pursue these iconic birds makes the effort worthwhile for many hunters. Follow the application process closely, meet all requirements, and you’ll be set for an exciting crane hunt during their seasonal migration through the state. Just be sure to apply early as permit availability is restricted. Wishing you luck in the drawing this year!