Know the laws —and your responsibilities—when calling in a tracker.
TEXAS Hunting & Tracking Laws
Texas has clear regulations that impact when, how, and **where** wounded game can be recovered—especially when using tracking dogs.
This Page will help you:
– Avoid legal mistakes
– Understand landowner rights
– Stay within TPWD rules during recovery
Is it Legal to Track a Wounded Animal in Texas?
✅ Yes, If
You have landowner permission
It’s a wounded animal—not a new hunt
You’re not carrying a firearm unless dispatch is legally justified
You’re using artificial light for recovery, not for hunting
🚫 Not Legal
No permission on private land
Carrying a firearm without justification
Tracking on public land without following hunting regs
Using light to hunt, not to recover
Are Tracking Dogs Legal in Texas?
✅ Yes. Dogs may be used to locate wounded game—but not to actively hunt. Tracking is allowed for whitetail, exotics, and hogs. 📏 No more than two dogs may be used to trail a wounded deer, as per current regulations.
Tracking After Dark
Yes, you can track wounded game after dark, but only with:
– Flashlights or headlamps (not hunting spotlights)
– Proper permission on the land
– No active hunting taking place
**Never** use lights to hunt healthy animals at night—this is illegal in most counties and can result in fines or license suspension.
Hunter Responsibilities During Recovery
- Stay on legal property—no jumping fences
- Do not fire a follow-up shot unless permitted
- Properly tag and report recovered game