Hunting and Trapping

Hunting

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. In 2017, these will be issued beginning September 1st. 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. After the general season ends, hunters may continue to hunt feral hogs only in all hunting units in the preserve except Lake Bayou.

The preserve will open a new hunting area this fall. The Lake Bayou Hunting Area is located in the Beaumont Unit, north of Interstate 10. Comprised primarily of marshlands, It is open only for waterfowl hunting and requires a boat to access.