Public Land archery opener

[plastic addict]

Who's headed out? What area? and what impact do you think Rita is going to have on hunting in ETX.

After having a banner season last year, our group was "forced" to leave a sweetheart deal in Mills county near Goldwaithe. We had a little squabble with the landowner about how much and when his ag exempt work was going to get done.

Not having the time or the funds to dedicate to a lease this year, we obtained permits to hunt "Big Sandy" in Polk county. Scouting 8000 acres is a bit of chore though. We've seem some pretty impressive sign. However since that biotch decided to visit I'm sure our scouting was all for not.

I've hunted Alazan and Somerville with some success and have seen a couple of brutes in both areas (but their usually hauling ***). Hate to enter an area that has a whole different set of problems...but the deer get smart quick on PL and the early hunters usually are more successful. Best of luck to all.. PA

[OUTLAW]

I've heard good things about Big Sandy just never tried for it myself. You'll probably have a lot of locals there who think it's their property so look around.
I've had success at Somerville and Bannister but haven't done the public thing in years. Try to out think the public and get in deep where the exit routes are and you'll do better than most, also week days will be a lot less crowded than weekends of course.
Good luck and let us see pics if you connect.

[stork]

Im gonna try to hit up somerville. Is it really crowded opening day? I really dont want to sit in a stand since i haven't done any scouting. would it be feasible to try stalking or not? Theres also two creeks through the area, you guys know which one is better. Thanks.

[plastic addict]

Try Nails from CR 125. To the ENE of the marsh there's a ridge that is a nice bedding area. It's hard to hunt because of the foot traffic and underbrush. From the 1697 area look for exit trails on the SE side of the fields. Both are simple to set up on, but easily altered by other hunters. I have never hunted the yegua area. The hogs were thick in that area this spring during the white bass run. Take a lightweight chair,GPS/compass and be prepared to see some ugly deer. There's a reason for the antler restrictions...PA