For those looking to challenge up your waterfowling desires, look no further than hunting sandhill cranes. Not only are these birds the best waterfowl to hit the dinner table, commonly referred to as ribeye of the sky, but cranes are very fun birds to hunt and look like lawn chairs falling off a roof when you fold them up over the decoys. Sandhill Cranes are very wary birds. Perfect concealment and decoy placement are a must to fool these birds. When everything is set up just right you will experience some of the most exciting waterfowl hunting there is to be had. They stand 3-4 feet tall and have wingspans approaching 7 feet.
Sandhill Cranes are protected in many states and in others a draw permit is required to harvest one bird. In Texas these birds are abundant and you are allowed a daily limit of 3 with 9 in possession.
Hunt Nation agents Eddie Deuser and John Pomazi visited this operation for a two-day hunt in January of 2024. Even with nasty windy weather on day one they were both able to take 2 birds. On day 2 with optimal weather conditions they limited out by 9:30.
Located about an hour from Lubbock Texas this outfitter has access to over 30,000 acres of prime Sandhill Crane habitat spread out over 4 counties and located in peanut fields and other various crops. The diverse terrains offer a variety of hunting experiences that cater to different game and skill levels. While you are hunting other guides are scouting out the best locations for tomorrow’s hunt.
This outfitter takes pride in delivering an unparalleled hunting experience, combining hard work, expertise, and the utmost hospitality. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be treated with the care and attention that only a team of passionate professionals can provide. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, they tailor their services to meet your needs, ensuring that every aspect of your hunt is meticulously planned and executed.
Although specializing in Sandhill Crane depending on dates you can also hunt goose, duck, dove, pigeon as well as prairie dogs. They utilize layout blinds and have ample amounts of decoys for an impressive full body spread.
Travel: Fly into Lubbock Texas and rent a car for the 45 minute drive to various options of accommodations including farm houses, hotels and The Vineyard Package.
Ammunition: We recommend a 12 gauge 3” #3-#5 lead shot. If you have any questions about ammunition contact the outfitter before purchasing.
Licenses: Texas hunting license ($54) Texas migratory Game Bird Endorsement, HIP Certification and a Federal Sandhill Crane Hunting Permit. All available online.
What to wear: Wear camouflage and layer accordingly to the weather forecast during your hunt. Due to the hunts being on dry fields waders are not necessary.
2024-2025 Dates:
Sandhill Crane- October 26, 2024- January 26, 2025
Goose- November 2, 2024- February 2, 2025
Duck- November 1, 2024- January 26, 2025
Dove- September 1, 2024- November 10, 2024, December 20, 2024- January 7, 2025
2024-2025 Pricing (Subject to change until deposit is received) Per day per hunter.
4 hunter minimum. 6 hunters guarantees you are only group.
Sandhill Crane $385
Goose $375
Duck $350
Dove $150
Pigeon $175
Vineyard Package $175 per day. Lodging is $225 per night and includes wine tasting.
Add on hunts:
Pigeon $175 and Prairie dogs $150
An average Sandhill crane will yield around ½ to ¾ pound of meat per bird. There is no finer eating according to some. Keeping it simple is easy with crane. A little salt and pepper and some high heat and you’re good to go. Cook to medium and enjoy with anything you would pair with a steak.
Vineyard package is $175 per day for dove hunting. Queen bed rooms are $225 and price is for double occupancy.
If electing to stay and hunt it would be $287.50 per person per day. You can also stay there if you are doing other hunts.
Mule Deer Hunts:
Mule deer hunts are 3 ½ days long with 1×1 guiding. Tags are available over the counter. These are very limited with only 2-3 tags available per year. Lodging is available but not included in price.
Pricing:
Base price for 3 ½ day hunt. $4,000.
Cull or Management buck $2,800. Under 200” $5,500. Over 200” $8,000.
Antelope Hunts:
He will have access to one antelope landowner tag per year. If interested call for details.
