Any one going to the TX Shootout, 6-10 Feb 08?
Where is it and what is the format?
Its a hog, javelina and varmint hunt on the Calaghan Ranch in South Texas.
I just looked it up on google "Callaghan Ranch Ltd" It looks like a cool hunt. It's $175. for a 4 day hunt all archery, and if you'r going to south Texas, Feb. is the time to go.
I just talked with a guy who did it in the past. His take away was not good. It has a big turn-out with primitive camping and reserving 150 yard stretches of roadways. I could see where repeat hunters might have an advantage and the potential for squatters reserving spots for buddies who are still in line trying to get in the gate. I might still go. The POC told me there is a stalk hunting pasture, but no specific traditional area.
I have been going there for a few years. My take is nearly everyone has a great time. Those who are first timers do not seem to have the success as the experienced guys. As I recall, last year they killed about 300 javelinas, a bunch of pigs, some bobcats, a ton of rabbits, snakes, badgers and more. I go as a vendor and hunt after the hunters go home. I have had multiple shots at javes every day that I hunted.
My opinion, it is worth the long trip from Alabama. I like it, I will be back this year too. I also see a lot of turkeys and deer, cant shoot them but they are nice to watch.
SRTA; Thanks for your take.
Any other comments?
If you have never hunted there, you will not believe the thorns. Everything will stick you. Be prepared to protect every inch of you body if you have to track thru the brush. It is unreal, and it hurts.
The javelinas do not see well, you can get close. Take some flee powder, if you kill one, they are full of fleas. Sprinkle the powder on them, wait a few minutes, them you will be ok. Otherwise you will be infested with fleas.
That's like most of Southe Texas, if it does bite ya, it'll stick ya. White brush is fun stuff to track through sometime tough to tell what it the blood trail and what is you. :]