Yes! In 2024 Snipe Hunting Is a Real Thing Here in Texas

Yes, I'm serious! Snipe hunting in Texas is real, depending on which kind of snipe hunting you're doing. You will either need a twig from a tree or a shotgun and a TexasParks and Wildlife Department hunting license.

Growing up, I remember the thrill of "snipe hunting" whenever we visited our grandparents or other relatives or on a Boy Scout camping trip. As the sun set and the evening air cooled, we gathered our gear: a switch (a twig or branch from a tree), a flashlight, and a bag to collect the elusive snipes in. See the video below.

The adults would weave tales of the sneaky snipes, heightening our excitement and apprehension. But, did I ever catch a snipe? Absolutely not. Snipe hunting was a playful ruse for our family to hide and scare us, sending us sprinting back to the house, hearts racing, yelling at the top of our lungs, and laughter echoing.

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However, as I later discovered, snipe hunting isn't just a childhood prank—it's a genuine outdoor activity. A snipe is a migratory bird, specifically known as Wilson's Snipe or Jacksnipe. Serious hunters and outdoors enthusiasts know that snipe hunting is far from the scare tactics of our youth.

To hunt snipe in Texas, you must have a hunting license with a migratory bird endorsement, a federal duck stamp, and your HIP certification.

Texas Migratory Bird Requirements

• Migratory Game Bird Endorsement: Required to hunt any migratory game bird (including waterfowl, coot, rail, gallinule, snipe, dove, sandhill crane, and woodcock).
• Federal Duck Stamp: Necessary for hunters aged 16 and older.
• HIP Certification: Also required for waterfowl hunters.

When purchasing your hunting license, inform the license clerk of your intention to hunt migratory game birds. You may need to answer a few simple questions. (Source: TWPD Wilson's Snipe regulations).

Interestingly, snipes are vocal birds, often referred to as singing birds by bird watchers. Their calls can be heard in the wild, adding to the allure of snipe hunting. So, if someone invites you to go snipe hunting, grab your shotgun and watch their reaction—this time, it’s for real. Happy hunting!