Top Hunting Places in Lubbock, Texas

April 27, 2025

Lubbock, Texas, often celebrated for its rich culture, agriculture, and music scene, is also a hidden gem for hunting enthusiasts. Nestled in the South Plains, this region offers a diverse terrain, abundant wildlife, and accessible public and private lands that make it a top-tier hunting destination in the Lone Star State. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a weekend warrior, the Lubbock area promises unforgettable hunting experiences year-round.

Lubbock’s Unique Landscape for Hunting

The Lubbock region lies within the Caprock Escarpment and Llano Estacado, offering a mix of high plains, rolling hills, canyons, and crop fields. This terrain creates ideal habitats for a variety of game species, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, wild hogs, turkey, dove, quail, and predators like coyotes and bobcats.

The proximity to both agricultural land and native prairie results in deal feeding and nesting grounds, attracting game in large numbers. The area's semi-arid climate ensures visibility and accessibility across the seasons.

Top Public Hunting Areas Near Lubbock

1. Matador Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

Located approximately 90 minutes northeast of Lubbock, Matador WMA spans over 28,000 acres of rugged terrain.It’s one of the largest and most popular WMAs in Texas, offering hunting for:

White-tailed deer
Rio Grande turkey
Scaled and bobwhite quail
Feral hogs

Matador WMA is managed by Texas Parks & Wildlife, and hunting access requires an Annual Public Hunting Permit (APH). Special drawing hunts are also available for deer and turkey.

2. Gene Howe Wildlife Management Area

While a bit further north, the Gene Howe WMA provides excellent upland game bird opportunities. It’s a prime location for quail hunting thanks to native grasslands and conservation efforts. Bowhunters also enjoy the archery-only deer season here.

Private Ranch Hunting Opportunities

For those seeking a more customized experience, the Lubbock area boasts numerous private ranches that cater to hunters looking for guided hunts, lodging, and managed trophy game.

1. Tule Creek Outfitters

Tule Creek Outfitters in Tulia, TX, about an hour from Lubbock, is renowned for its guided dove and pheasant hunts. The vast fields, friendly staff, and consistent bird numbers make this a favorite among local and visiting hunters alike.

2. Caprock Hunting Preserve

Caprock Hunting Preserve offers high-fence and free-range huntsfor exotic game, whitetail deer, and hogs. Known for its luxury accommodations and professional guides, it's perfect for corporate hunts, father-son trips, or seasoned trophy hunters.

3. Hodge Ranch

A local gem near Lubbock, Hodge Ranch specializes in mule deer, whitetail, and turkey hunts. The land is managed for conservation and game quality, ensuring both ethical and fruitful hunts.

What Can You Hunt in Lubbock, TX?

White-tailed and Mule Deer

Deer season in Lubbock runs from November to early January, with archery season starts earlier in October. Both white-tailed and mule deer can be found in the region, especially along creek beds and crop edges.

Wild Hogs

A year-round nuisance species, wild hogs are plentiful in West Texas. the no-bag-limit status makes hog hunting an excellent off-season pursuit.

Dove and Upland Game Birds

Lubbock County is one of Texas' premier dove hunting spots. Due to the abundance of sunflower and milo fields, opening weekend in September draws hunters from across the state.

Turkey

Spring and fall Rio Grande turkey hunts are productive, especially in areas with creek bottoms and cottonwood cover.

Coyotes and Predators

Predator hunting is is legal year-round, with night hunting allowed under Texas regulations (check local laws). Coyotes are particularly common in agricultural fringes and can be hunted using calls and night-vision gear.

Best Seasons for Hunting in Lubbock

Game Species	Season
Dove	September – October
Deer (Archery)	October
Deer (Rifle)	November – January
Wild Hog	Year-round
Quail/Pheasant	November – February
Turkey (Spring)	March – May
Coyotes	Year-round

Essential Tips for Hunting Around Lubbock

Get Your Licenses and Permits: Ensure you have a valid Texas hunting license, and if hunting public land, obtain an APH Permit.
Scout the Area: Whether it’s public or private, use apps like OnX Hunt or HuntStand to get a lay of the land.
Prepare for the Elements: Lubbock weather can shift fast — bring gear for wind, heat, or sudden cold snaps.
Respect Private Property: Many productive hunting areas are near farmland. Always get landowner permission.
Stay Safe and Legal: Review Texas Parks and Wildlife hunting regulations before your trip.

Family-Friendly and Youth Hunting

Lubbock's welcoming culture extends into its hunting community. Many ranches offer youth and novice hunter packages, creating a safe and educational space for young outdoor enthusiasts to learn and participate. Events such as youth dove hunts and hunter education programs are regularly hosted in the area.

Why Lubbock is a Must-Hunt Destination

Lubbock offers a unique blend of West Texas charm, abundant wildlife, and accessible hunting land. Its proximity to high-quality public WMAs and private ranches tailored for both budget and trophy hunters makes it ideal for all levels of hunters.

From dove-filled skies in September to stalking mule deer in the winter brush, Lubbock’s outdoor scene is unmatched in the South Plains. Whether you're a Texan or visiting from out of state, this area offers the perfect setting for adventure, harvest, andmemories in the great outdoors.

Plan Your Next Hunt in Lubbock Today

With top-tier guides, sprawling ranches, and abundant game, Lubbock is one of the best places to hunt in Texas. Start planning your trip by securing your tags, scouting locations, and connecting with local outfitters.

Your next successful hunt starts in Lubbock.

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