Top Hunting Places in Amarillo, Texas

Introduction to Hunting in Amarillo, Texas

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo offers a rugged and diverse landscape that draws hunters from across the state and beyond. The region's wide-open prairies, rolling plains, and wooded river bottoms create ideal habitats for a broad variety of game species. Whether you're chasing whitetail deer, wild turkeys, quail, or feral hogs, Amarillo provides some of the most accessible and bountiful hunting grounds in Texas.

Best Seasons and Game Animals in Amarillo

Deer Hunting in the Panhandle Plains

The white-tailed deer and mule deer populations in the Panhandle region are healthy and well-managed. The season typically runs from early November through mid-January, with bowhunting seasons opening in October. The Canadian River corridors and surrounding brushy terrain are hot spots for deer activity.

Wild Turkey and Upland Birds

Spring and fall mark prime turkey hunting seasons in Amarillo. The Rio Grande turkey is the most common species, frequently found near creeks and agricultural lands. Bobwhite quail and pheasant hunting are also popular, especially on CRP (Conservation Reserve Program) lands and grasslands near riverbanks.

Feral Hog Opportunities

With no bag limit and year-round hunting, feral hogs offer hunters an exciting challenge while helping control this damaging invasive species. These animals thrive in the brush and croplands around Amarillo—making them a target for both rifle and bow hunters.

Top Public Hunting Areas in Amarillo, Texas

 

1. Gene Howe Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

Located northeast of Amarillo, near Canadian, TX, Gene Howe WMA is a premier destination for public hunting.

• Size: 5,393 acres
  
• Habitat: River bottom woodland, tallgrass prairie
  
• Game Species: White-tailed deer, Rio Grande turkey, quail, dove, waterfowl
  
• Permit Required: Yes – Annual Public Hunting Permit (APH)
  
• Features: Designated primitive camping sites, archery-only zones during designated seasons
  

2. Matador Wildlife Management Area

Roughly 2 hours southeast of Amarillo, Matador WMA spans over 28,000 acres and is known for its variety of terrain and game species.

• Best For: Mule deer, quail, dove, turkey, and limited exotic species
  
• Terrain: Rolling hills, mesquite brush, riparian areas
  
• Hunting Methods Allowed: Rifle, shotgun, and archery
  
• Access Tip: Some areas require drawn hunt participation or restrict access to specific dates

3. Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Though primarily a bird sanctuary, Buffalo Lake NWR offers limited hunting opportunities.

• Game Available: Dove, rabbit, and waterfowl during designated seasons
  
• Rules: Nontoxic shot required for bird hunting
• Special Feature: Great destination for youth and first-time hunters under guidance programs
  

Private Ranch Hunting in Amarillo

 

1. Spike Box Ranch

Known for trophy whitetail and mule deer hunting, Spike Box Ranch caters to seasoned hunters seeking a more exclusive experience.

• Packages Include: Lodging, meals, guide service, and game cleaning
  
• Seasonal Highlights: Deer rut season and spring turkey hunts
  
• Add-On Options: Predator hunting (coyote and bobcat)
  

2. Sierra Grande Ranch

Located near the New Mexico border and within driving distance of Amarillo, Sierra Grande Ranch offers premium guided hunts.

• Specialty: Elk, mule deer, and antelope hunts
  
• Terrain: High plains, mesas, and wooded canyons
  
• What Sets It Apart: Low-pressure hunting environments, ideal for bowhunters
  

Top Species for Trophy Hunting in Amarillo

Mule Deer

Amarillo's proximity to the Mule Deer Belt gives hunters the chance to bag trophy-class bucks during the fall rut. Larger-bodied and more elusive than whitetail, mule deer require patience and precision.

Rio Grande Turkey

An iconic Texas hunt, these birds provide a thrilling test of a hunter’s stealth and calling skills. The spring mating season makes for exceptional gobbler action.

Pronghorn Antelope

The Texas Panhandle is one of the few regions in the state with a huntable population of pronghorn. While limited entry and permits apply, the experience is well worth it.

Essential Gear for Hunting in Amarillo

• Rifles/Firearms: .243 caliber or higher for deer; 12 or 20 gauge for upland birds
  
• Optics: High-quality binoculars and scopes for glassing the expansive plains
  
• Clothing: Layered camouflage suited for cold mornings and warm afternoons
  
• Boots: Waterproof, high-ankle support for navigating mixed terrain
  
• GPS/Mapping Tools: Offline maps or hunting apps, such as OnX Hunt or HuntStand
  

Licensing and Regulations

To legally hunt in Texas, especially in or near Amarillo:

• License Required: Texas Hunting License (resident or non-resident)
  
• Tags/Endorsements: Depending on game, you’ll need specific tags (deer, turkey, migratory birds)
  
• Hunter Education: Mandatory for hunters born after Sept. 2, 1971
  
• Public Land Permits: Annual Public Hunting Permit (APH) for access to WMAs
  
• Legal Shooting Hours: Half-hour before sunrise to half-hour after sunset unless otherwise stated
  

Review all current regulations through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department before your trip.

Hunting Lodges and Outfitters Near Amarillo

• Palo Duro Outfitters – Offers mule deer and turkey hunting packages
  
• High Plains Guide Service – Specializes in waterfowl and upland bird hunts
  
• Texas Panhandle Hunts – Offers full-service hunts with private land access
  

Many of these services include lodging, meals, and licensed guides familiar with local terrain and game patterns.

Conservation and Ethical Hunting

Hunting in Texas isn’t just about sport — it's about stewardship and sustainability. Responsible hunters in Amarillo contribute to conservation by:

• Following fair chase principles
  
• Harvesting ethically and legally
  
• Reporting and tagging harvests properly
  
• Supporting local wildlife conservation through permit and license purchases
  

By practicing ethical hunting, we help ensure future generations can enjoy the rich traditions and landscapes of the Texas Panhandle.

Final Thoughts

From vast wildlife management areas to premier private ranches, Amarillo delivers a rewarding and diverse hunting experience. Whether you're after a challenging mule deer stalk, an exhilarating turkey call, or a day in the field pursuing upland game, this region offers some of the best hunting opportunities in the Lone Star State.

Plan your next hunt in Amarillo, Texas—where land, game, and the spirit of the wild converge.