| 
         The 2003 quail hunting season has 
        been predicted by Texas wildlife experts to be a banner year.  
        According to these experts rainfall and temperatures have been favorable 
        for multiple hatches. 
        Great news! 
        However, unless you have a ranch 
        of your own, a quail lease, or know someone who will let you hunt his 
        land, this banner year may have little impact on your quail hunting. 
        Let's face it, Houston is not 
        situated in prime quail territory.  Driving to the nearest hot spot 
        could involve driving for four or more hours to South or West Texas.  
        This being the case, a one day hunt is not practical for most hunters. 
        There is another option if you 
        don't have the time for extended weekend hunts.  For those of us 
        who have bird dogs and love to hunt quail, hunting preserves are a great 
        alternative.    | 
      
             
        The 2003 quail hunting season has been 
        predicted by Texas wildlife experts to be a banner year. 
           | 
      
  
       Two such hunting preserves that I 
      have frequented this year are Flying Feathers in Winnie, TX and Walton 
      Ranch in Millican, TX. 
  Flying Feathers is west of Beaumont, or 
  about one hour east of Houston.  Billy Hickman conducts hunts on several 
  thousand acres of land.  Half day quail hunts are around $150.00 for you 
  and your dog.  Guided hunts and various mixed bag hunts are also 
  available. 
  Walton Ranch is located about 12 miles south of College 
  Station, TX, or about 91 miles north of Houston.  Jody Tomlinson conducts 
  the hunts on this beautiful ranch. Half day quail hunts are around $130.00 for 
  you and your dog.  Again, guided hunts and mixed bag hunts are available. 
  If you are short on time, but long on desire to get into 
  the field, consider these hunting preserves.  The operators of both 
  preserves make every effort to insure your success. 
     |