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 2018, 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 end of the general season, hunters may continue to hunt feral hogs only in all hunting units in the preserve except Lake Bayou through February 28. The preserve does not observe any state hunting seasons that fall outside of archery season and general season.
The Lake Bayou Hunting Area was opened for hunting in 2017 and is located in the Beaumont Unit. Comprised primarily of marshlands, It is open only for waterfowl hunting and requires a boat to access.
Hunting Unit Maps
BeaumontTrapping
Big Thicket National Preserve issues free trapping permits for several units of the preserve. Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis through the preserve's Resource Management office. Hunters must have their current Texas trapping license in order to get a permit. For more information contact the wildlife biologist at 409-951-6823.
The preserve generally follows the trapping regulations set forth by the State of Texas. Trapping regulations specific to the preserve are listed in the Big Thicket National Preserve Fur-Bearing Trapping Guide and Regulations.
Trapping Unit Maps