Quail were once a staple of Texas hunting, with surveys in the late 1970s showing coveys across much of the state and populations in the tens of millions. Since then, numbers have dropped by as much as 85 percent. Parasites, fire ants, weather extremes, and shrinking habitat all play a role. Yet the story isn’t over. In good years with rain and cover, quail still rebound—proof that with the right conditions, the covey call can return.

Access has always been the biggest hurdle for Texas hunters, but that’s changing fast. For 2025–26, TPWD added over 10,000 acres to the Public Hunting Program, pushing statewide access past 1 million acres. With 52 parks now offering hunts—up from 45 just five years ago—new ground like Dinosaur Valley, Ray Roberts Lake, and Enchanted Rock opens the gate for more opportunity, more hunts, and more chances to pass on the tradition.

Texas dove season opens Monday, Sept. 1, and hunters have plenty to be excited about. Mourning doves are estimated at nearly 36 million statewide, up from last year and well above the long-term average. White-wings slipped slightly from 2024’s record but remain strong, especially in South Texas. After a milder summer that boosted production in many regions, hunters can expect steady flights and a season that’s set up for success.