Big Thicket Hunt Permits Available Beginning Sept. 1

Big Thicket National Preserve issues free hunting permits for several units of the preserve, enabling hunters to harvest white-tailed deer, squirrels, rabbits, waterfowl, and feral hogs. Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis at the preserve visitor center beginning September 1. Hunters must have their current Texas hunting license in order to get a hunting permit.

The preserve generally follows the hunting regulations set forth by the State of Texas. Hunting regulations specific to the preserve are listed in the Big Thicket National Preserve Hunting Guide and Regulations.

Hunters may get a permit for only one unit. Starting January 1, hunters may hunt feral hogs in any hunting unit of the preserve except Lake Bayou through the end of the winter squirrel season. This applies to feral hogs only. Other game may be hunted only within the unit specified on the permit.

The Lake Bayou Hunting Area is located in the Beaumont Unit. Comprised primarily of marshlands, it is open only for waterfowl hunting and requires a boat to access.

Hunters with documented disabilities may qualify for a special use permit that allows the use of an ATV, UTV, or RTV in certain areas. Please contact us for more information.

Return your hunter report card by April 1 in order to receive a permit for the next hunting season.

2020-21 Hunting Seasons and Legal Means

Refer to State of Texas regulations for species-specific seasons and limits.

Deer