Restrictions on Texas Deer Hunting With Dogs
While dogs are great companions in the field, they give the hunter a huge advantage over hunters who have no dogs. For this reason, there are laws against the use of dogs to hunt deer in the state of Texas.
Other People Are Reading
-
The Law
-
Texas law states that it is illegal for a person to use a dog to either hunt or pursue deer.
Penalties
-
Anyone who breaks this law may face up to a year in prison and/or be subject to a fine between $500 and $4,000. An individual may also lose, or have suspended, his or her hunting or fishing license.
-
Regulations Regarding Dogs and Firearms
-
Texas law further states that, during deer season and when on another person's property, it is illegal for an individual to carry a shotgun, with either buckshot or slugs, while in the company of his or her dog. This law applies only to the following Texas counties: Angelina, Hardin, Harris, Harrison, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Panola, Polk Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Tyler and Walker.
Restrictions on Tracking Deer with Dogs
-
It is also illegal to use dogs to track or trail a wounded deer in Angelina, Hardin, Harris, Harrison, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Panola, Polk Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Tyler and Walker counties.
Tracking Deer with Dogs in Other Counties
-
In all other Texas counties it is lawful to carry a firearm in the field while using up to two dogs to track a wounded deer. Texas law states that a wounded deer is classified as one leaving a blood trail.
-
References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of christopher goodband
