Sandhill Crane Hunting Regulations

Shooting Hours

One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.

Nontoxic Ammunition Requirement

Sandhill Cranes MAY be taken with lead shot. However, Wildlife Management Areas and Federal Wildlife Refuges have special regulations requiring nontoxic shot for ALL game bird hunting, including Sandhill Cranes.

License Requirements

Hunting License

All migratory game bird hunters must have a valid hunting license.

Texas Migratory Game Bird Stamp Endorsement

Required to hunt any migratory game bird (waterfowl, coot, rail, gallinule, snipe, dove, sandhill crane, and woodcock). A valid Federal Duck Stamp and HIP Certification are also required of waterfowl hunters 16 years of age or older.

Harvest Information Program

When you purchase a hunting license, indicate to the license clerk that you intend to hunt migratory game birds and need to be HIP certified by answering a few simple questions.

Federal Hunting Permit

A Federal Sandhill Crane Hunting Permit is required to hunt Sandhill Cranes, in addition to a valid Texas hunting license, Texas Migratory Game Bird Endorsement, and HIP Certification. The Federal Sandhill Crane Hunting Permit can be obtained in person ONLY at TPWD Law Enforcement offices and TPWD headquarters in Austin, but also is available by phone at (800) 792-1112 or (512) 389-4820, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday or through Online Sales. For phone and online orders, a transaction receipt will be issued in lieu of a permit. A $5 administrative fee will be charged for online orders. Permittees should keep a record of hunting activities because 26% of crane hunters are chosen for a federal harvest survey.

Please note, there is a 50% nonrefundable deposit included with your payment when booking.