Catalina Goat Hunting in Texas - The Ultimate Guide

An Introduction to Catalina Goat Hunting in Texas

Catalina goat hunting in Texas offers a unique hunting experience unlike any other. The Catalina goat is a hybrid goat, bred from specific breeds of goats brought to the USA from overseas. They were originally released on Santa Catalina Island off the coast of California in the 1920s for meat production. Over time, some escaped and made their way to Texas, forming feral herds that thrive in the rugged Texas terrain.

Catalina goats have several characteristics that make them a challenging and exciting quarry for hunters. They are extremely agile and can traverse steep inclines and rocky cliffs with ease. Their keen senses allow them to detect danger from afar. And adult males can weigh over 200 pounds while sporting massive, curved horns stretching over 30 inches tip to tip. When pressured, they will band together in small herds for protection.

Pursuing Catalina goats in Texas is considered a true western hunting adventure. Hunters have the opportunity to test their skill and patience while experiencing the wild backcountry of Texas. Proper preparation and equipment are essential for success.

Where to Find Catalina Goats in Texas

Catalina goats are located in several areas of central, west, and south Texas:

• Edwards Plateau region
• Hill Country
• Davis Mountains
• Chinati Mountains

They thrive in rocky and brushy terrain with adequate forage. Huntable populations can be found on private ranches as well as public lands managed for wildlife.

Best Time to Hunt Catalina Goats

Catalina goat hunting seasons in Texas generally run from August through February. The peak rut occurs in late fall and winter after the temperatures cool down. This is an excellent time to hunt as bucks become more active and aggressive as they search for breeding does. Doe hunts are usually held in August and September before the rut kicks in.

During the summer months, the goats will stay high in the mountainous areas seeking shade and cooler temperatures. As winter approaches, they'll move down into the valleys and canyons where food is more abundant. Hunting pressure also pushes them into less accessible areas.

Catalina Goat Hunting Methods

Spot and stalk hunting is the preferred method for pursuing Catalina goats in Texas. Hunters use optics like binoculars and spotting scopes to scan mountainsides, ridgelines, and canyon areas from vantage points to locate the animals. Once goats are spotted, the hunter will plan a stalk to get within shooting range while staying undetected.

Due to the open terrain, hunters generally try to stay concealed while moving in close until they find cover like rock outcroppings, juniper trees, or brush to hide their approach. Using available cover and moving slowly while stopping frequently to scan ahead is critical. A hunter's scent can also easily alert Catalina goats, so hunting into the wind is ideal.

Another popular and effective technique is to set up in an area that provides good visibility at dawn and dusk. Goats moving between bedding and feeding areas can often be intercepted this way. Calling with goat bleats can also be used sparingly to try drawing in curious bucks during the rut.

Equipment for Catalina Goat Hunting

Hunting the high country and steep terrain for Catalina goats requires having proper gear:

• Rifle: Large calibers like .270 or .30-06 are recommended to ensure ethical kills at longer ranges. Scopes with at least 12x magnification are ideal.
• Binoculars and spotting scope: Quality optics are a must-have for locating distant animals across large landscapes.
• Shooting sticks or backpack: Helps provide a stable shooting platform.
• Appropriate clothing: Lightweight camo, sturdy hiking boots, and layers for changing weather.
• Daypack: Useful for carrying optics, first aid kit, survival supplies, etc.

Most hunting on guided private ranches is done from vehicle travel between high vantage points. For public land DIY hunts, fit hunters should be prepared for rigorous hike-in stalks covering steep elevation changes.

Field Care of Harvested Catalina Goats

Once a Catalina goat is harvested, proper field care is important:

• Tag animal according to regulations.
• Cover with cheesecloth to protect from flies.
• Skin and quarter away from water sources.
• Pack quarters in game bags and keep cool.
• Try to cool harvested meat quickly.
• Debone meat for transport if needed.

Most hunters will need to backpack the quarters off the mountain once the animal is processed. The meat should be cooled and frozen as soon as possible after reaching the trailhead. Catalina goat meat is considered excellent eating, with loin chops and hindquarter cuts being most popular.

Challenges of Hunting Catalina Goats in Texas

While Catalina goat hunting provides an exciting pursuit, there are some inherent challenges:

Rugged Terrain

The remote mountains and canyons where Catalina goats dwell can be extremely rugged. Hunters must traverse steep, rocky slopes and thick brush on foot to access areas holding goats. Fitness and proper footwear are a must.

Vast Country

Spotting and stalking animals across vast expanses of mountains and canyons takes patience. Goats blend into the terrain well. Hunters will likely need to cover big distances on foot before finding their quarry.

Unpredictable Weather

Weather in Texas can change quickly, bringing rain, high winds, or rapidly dropping temperatures. Hunters need to monitor forecasts and pack for variable conditions.

Spooky Nature

Catalina goats are very keen-sensed and will flee at the first hint of danger. Hunters must be extremely stealthy in their stalks and understand goat behavior.

Isolation

Most Catalina goat hunting areas are remote and isolated. Hunters need proper navigation equipment, first aid training, and survival supplies in case of an emergency.

Tips for Hunting Catalina Goats

Below are some useful tips for having a successful Catalina goat hunt in Texas:

Research the Land Thoroughly

Use maps and aerial imagery to locate likely bedding, feeding, and watering areas. Identify high vantage points and terrain features that will help your stalk.

Be in Excellent Physical Shape

Hunting these rugged mountains will test your physical limits. Your hunt will be much more enjoyable if you are fit and conditioned.

Pack Light

You will likely need to cover a lot of steep ground quickly during a stalk. Pack only essential gear so your pack doesn't hinder mobility.

Spot from High Points Early and Late

Glassing lower areas from peaks and ridgelines during dawn and dusk when goats are moving can reveal their locations.

Use the Wind

Catalina goats have incredible noses. Plan your stalks so your scent blows away from their predicted location.

Stalk Slowly

Take your time and move deliberately during the final approach, stopping and scanning ahead frequently.

Use Cover

Use available boulders, brush, and timber to break up your silhouette as you close in.

Aim for High Lung Shots

Due to their angled front shoulders, aim high on the goat's chest when broadside to hit the lungs.

Consider a Guide

Hiring an experienced guide can greatly increase your odds by putting you in prime areas during optimal conditions.

Why Hunt Catalina Goats in Texas?

For hunters seeking a challenging western big game hunting experience, Catalina goats are a top choice for several reasons:

Excellent Trophy Potential

Mature billies sport massive, unique horns making them highly-prized trophies. Skulls and capes are also popular.

Delicious Meat

The meat is considered delicious table fare by hunters. Loins, hindquarters, and shoulders produce fine cuts.

Western Adventure

Pursuing Catalinas takes hunters deep into the rugged heart of Texas through beautiful country.

Spot and Stalk Hunting

This exciting, physically engaging method of hunting appeals to many hunters.

New Challenge

For seasoned hunters, targeting Catalina goats provides a fun new challenge to master.

Multi-Purpose Hunting

Opportunities to take other species like aoudad, mule deer, or predators often exist as well.

Finding Your Catalina Goat Hunt in Texas

Here are some options to book a Catalina goat hunt in Texas:

Public Land Hunts

Several Wildlife Management Areas offer limited quota drawing hunts annually. Apply early as demand is high.

Private Land Outfitters

Research outfitters leasing private ranches in prime Catalina goat range. Many provide guided hunts.

Landowner Tags

Contact landowners with goats directly and negotiate access fees. DiY on their property.

Hunting Leases

Lease membership in a hunting club can provide exclusive access to quality Catalina goat hunting lands.

Conclusion

Whether spotting distant goats across a rugged canyon or sneaking along a rocky ridgeline, Catalina goat hunting in Texas offers an exciting adventure. With proper planning and preparation, plus persistence and patience in the field, tagging a trophy billy makes for an unforgettable western big game experience.

FAQs

Where are Catalina goats found in Texas?

Catalina goats are located in several areas of central, west, and south Texas including the Edwards Plateau, Hill Country, Davis Mountains, and Chinati Mountains. They live in rugged, rocky terrain.

What is the best time to hunt Catalina goats?

The peak seasons are fall and winter after temperatures cool down, usually from August through February. The rut occurs in late fall and winter.

What weapons are best for hunting Catalina goats?

Large caliber rifles like .270 or .30-06 with a good scope are recommended. Shots are often at longer ranges in open terrain.

How do you hunt Catalina goats?

Spot and stalk hunting is the most common method. Hunters glass from high vantage points, spot goats, then plan careful stalks using terrain to get within range undetected.

Why are Catalina goats a popular hunt?

They offer a challenging trophy pursuit through scenic country. Their tasty meat and unique horns are highly prized. Spot and stalk hunting appeals to many hunters.