Yesterday’s episode of On the Dock with Rick Smith cast a spotlight on one of Texas’ most enduring and impactful outdoor traditions: the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Big Time Texas Hunts, now entering its 30th year. What began in 1998 as a creative way to expand hunting access and support conservation has grown into a statewide institution—one that blends adventure, stewardship, and the spirit of the Texas outdoors.
Rick walked listeners through the newly opened entry period for the 2026–27 season, where hunters can once again take a shot at some of the most exclusive hunting experiences available on both private ranches and public lands across the Lone Star State. As TPWD’s Kevin Mote shared, the heart of the program remains unchanged: offering “an affordable chance at once‑in‑a‑lifetime hunting opportunities while also raising important funding for wildlife conservation.”
A Lineup of Legendary Hunts
Rick highlighted several of the program’s most sought‑after packages:
- The Texas Grand Slam — a crown jewel of BTTH, awarding one winner four major big‑game hunts: desert bighorn sheep, white‑tailed deer, pronghorn, and desert mule deer.
- The Exotic Safari — a guided pursuit of gemsbok and scimitar‑horned oryx at Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area, with space for one hunter and a guest.
- The Ultimate Mule Deer Hunt — a multi‑day guided experience in the Texas Panhandle, tailored for hunters seeking mature mule deer.
This year also brings a brand‑new adventure: the Lone Star Javelina Hunt in the rugged Trans‑Pecos Desert. The winner and a guest will take on a free‑range javelina hunt across a sprawling 40,000‑acre ranch, complete with lodging, meals, a professional guide, and transportation. For the first time, the harvested javelina may be considered for both the Boone & Crockett record book and the Texas Big Game Awards.
Bonus Gear and Added Value
Rick noted that TPWD has expanded its bonus gift offerings for the second year, thanks to generous partners like Allens Boots, Dometic, and Los Cazadores. Select hunt winners will receive premium extras, including:
- Custom‑fitted alligator boots valued at $2,000
- $500 in ammunition
- A $500 hunting apparel package
- A $1,000 Dometic E‑Cooler
These additions aim to boost participation and enhance the experience for lucky winners.
A Legacy of Conservation
Across three decades, Big Time Texas Hunts has raised more than $24.1 million for wildlife research, habitat restoration, and expanded public hunting access. Last season alone generated $1.46 million—marking the sixth straight year of revenue topping $1 million. These funds support vital efforts such as desert bighorn sheep restoration, brush control for mule deer and quail, grassland rehabilitation, and ADA‑accessible blinds on Wildlife Management Areas.
How to Enter
Entries are available online for $9 or at license retailers for $10. The deadline to participate is October 15, with winners announced within two weeks. For hunters, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, BTTH remains one of the most meaningful ways to support Texas wildlife while dreaming big about the next great adventure.
Stay Tuned
Be sure to catch On the Dock with Rick Smith every Wednesday and Friday at 6:15 p.m. on KNCT as Rick continues to bring stories from the water, the woods, and the heart of Texas conservation.
