24/25 Fall Preview – Drought Inland Cuts Off Farmers Access to Water

2024-2025 Texas Hunting Season Preview: Waterfowl, Gator, Teal, and Dove

Howdy, y’all!

As we look back on what’s been another remarkable fishing season, I want to thank all the great folks who’ve joined us from across the country to enjoy these waters with our expert guides. Now, with fall just around the corner, it’s time to turn our attention to the upcoming hunting season. September will kick things off with our combination Dove & Teal hunts, and soon after, we’ll dive into the much-anticipated Big Duck Season come November. Despite a lot of rain across the State, water districts have cut off farmers for flooding fields here in the Calhoun County area. While I wouldn’t label us as being in a drought, there is sure going to be an absence of an abundance of water inland. That’s going to push everything into the bays and back lakes and all of our fresh water ponds on the island are in good shape.

When it comes to Dove hunting along the coast, a little rain can be a bit of a nuisance during wet years. But with this dry spell, we’re set for a prime Dove season. The last significant drought we experienced ran from 2009 to 2013, and if you remember, that set us up for some stellar hunts. This season, we’re poised for exceptional action on all the local species—White-Wing, Mourning, and Eurasian Doves alike.

For Waterfowl hunters, this drought changes the game significantly. With limited water across the Central Flyway, flooded fields are harder to come by due to water restrictions. Many reservoirs have dropped so far that they’re more mud than water, leaving little in the way of food or cover for ducks. While that might sound like a problem, for those of us who guide and hunt the Texas Mid-Coast, it’s quite the opportunity. During the 2009-2013 drought, we saw firsthand how these conditions concentrate Waterfowl in coastal areas. Ducks that would otherwise be spread out over inland fields or reservoirs will be flocking to the bays and back lakes where we work. It’s a dream setup for any seasoned Waterfowler.

What remains to be seen, though, is how healthy the flyway will be this season. What I can tell you is that during wet years, our barrier islands are mostly home to divers, while puddle ducks like Wigeon, Gadwall, Pintail, and Teal spread across South Texas. This year, with fewer inland water sources, we’re expecting a lot more puddle ducks concentrated along the coast. They’ll be moving regularly between freshwater ponds, creating a unique dynamic that’ll be a sight to see for hunters.

We’re booking up fast for the season, and we’re excited to welcome hunters from all over the country to experience what’s shaping up to be a memorable year.

Alligator Season

Our Alligator Season is nearly full, with just a few spots left. If you’ve been thinking about bagging a gator this season, now’s the time to finalize those plans before it’s too late.

Fishing

We’ve had an exceptional fishing season so far, and we’re looking forward to some cooler weather, which will carry us right into more fantastic fishing through December.

There’s no shortage of memories to make, and we’re eager to have y’all come down and join us. Let’s get out there and make it happen!

Tight lines and happy hunting, Capt. Kris Kelley Castaway Lodge 1-888-618-4868 www.seadriftbayfishing.com

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