Texas quail surveys indicate favorable hunting prospects ahead of the season’s Nov. 1, 2026, opening, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reported. Biologists observed above-average numbers of bobwhite and scaled quail in most surveyed regions, though the department cautioned that local conditions can vary considerably.
TPWD biologists covered more than 3,300 road miles during annual roadside surveys in early August 2026. Patrick Schutz, the department’s Upland Game Bird Program leader, said the results supported expectations for a good hunting season, particularly in South Texas and the Trans-Pecos.
The surveys measure regional population trends rather than conditions at individual hunting sites. TPWD began the statewide surveys in 1978 and provides historical survey data for comparison.
Public hunting requirements
Hunters using Texas Public Hunting Lands must have an Annual Public Hunting Permit. They also must check the Public Hunting Lands Map Booklet for regulations that may apply to specific areas. The Texas Hunt & Fish app allows hunters to complete on-site registration electronically at a public hunting area.
Bobwhite results vary by region
Weather and habitat conditions produced uneven bobwhite results across Texas, but most regions had more birds observed per survey route than their 15-year averages, according to TPWD. Schutz said biologists had anticipated that summer heat and dry conditions would affect populations, but the statewide results were better than expected.
In South Texas, biologists observed an average of 10.17 bobwhites per route, compared with the 15-year average of 9.92. TPWD attributed reports of multiple successful hatches to timely rain and favorable habitat. Public hunting opportunities include Chaparral Wildlife Management Area and James E. Daughtrey Wildlife Management Area.
The Rolling Plains recorded slightly fewer bobwhites in 2026 than in 2025, but TPWD still expects the region to offer solid hunting opportunities. North Texas public hunting locations include Matador, Gene Howe and Teacup Mountain wildlife management areas. Teacup Mountain covers 11,091 acres and is managed for several wildlife species, including bobwhite quail.
Scaled quail sightings increase
Scaled quail survey results continued an upward trend, with average sightings exceeding 15-year averages in most regions. TPWD said late spring rain and favorable habitat in the Trans-Pecos and Edwards Plateau helped nesting, with multiple broods observed in both regions.
The Edwards Plateau recorded the largest increase in scaled quail sightings during the August surveys. Biologists observed an average of 29.88 birds per route, up from 14.00 in 2025 and above the 15-year average of 8.38. TPWD biologists expect Black Gap and Elephant Mountain wildlife management areas to offer good public hunting opportunities for scaled quail.
Hunters can review TPWD’s regional outlooks for northern bobwhite and scaled quail. For county-specific conditions, the department recommends contacting a local TPWD wildlife biologist.
