Quail season to open Saturday

By Sam Waller

Quail hunting season opens Saturday across the state with seasons for white-tailed deer and Turkey to start Nov. 6.

Game Warden Jacob Mort said the outlook for quail is average to slightly below average in Shackelford County.

“There are some birds around,” Mort said. “It’s usually been between six and eight birds in a covey.”

Statewide, the quail forecast is looking up after three years below average, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website, but prospects remain low in the Rolling Plains region.

Nesting activity continued throughout the region, and broods were still being observed in many counties, including Shackelford, through September. 

In addition to a hunting license, quail hunters are required to have an Upland Game Bird Endorsement, which costs $7 in addition to a $25 basic license.

Licenses may be purchased through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.

A $68 super combo package allows hunting and fishing anywhere in the state and includes all endorsements. A $25 Texas-resident license does not include endorsements.

Quail season runs through Feb. 27, 2022. The daily bag limit is 15 with a limit of 45 in possession. Legal shooting hours are from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.