There’s a reason Texas is called the exotic hunting capital of the United States. With unmatched access to world-class animals, flexible scheduling, ethical hunting practices, and luxurious experiences, it offers everything an international trip can and more.

So, if you’ve been dreaming of the plains of Africa or the forests of India, you might just find the adventure you’re looking for a lot closer to home. Exotic hunting in Texas brings the world to your doorstep, and it’s ready when you are.

These exotic species are available for spot-and-stalk, safari-style, or blind hunts, depending on your preferences and experience level. Hunts can be tailored to rifle, bow, or muzzleloader hunters, making it a flexible experience for all skill levels.

A Responsible and Rewarding Hunting Adventure

While Africa, India, or the Middle East may be the natural homes of exotic species, they’re no longer the only places to hunt them. Here’s why more and more hunters are skipping the hassle of international travel and heading to Texas instead.

1. No Passports, Visas, or Long-Haul Flights

Traveling abroad to hunt exotics can be a logistical nightmare. Between securing visas, coordinating firearm transport, and enduring 15+ hour flights, the process is time-consuming and expensive. Hunting in Texas allows you to arrive by car or short domestic flight. In most cases, you can be on a ranch and in a blind within hours of leaving home.

For hunters who dream of exotic hunts in Texas or tracking rare and beautiful animals from around the globe, the journey doesn’t have to begin at an airport. In fact, some of the most sought-after big game species, like axis deer, blackbuck antelope, and scimitar horned oryx, are thriving right here in the state. Across the Lone Star State, exotic hunting has evolved into a premier experience, offering all the excitement of a global safari without the hassles of international travel.

Whether you're after a trophy, a culinary experience, or simply the thrill of the chase, Texas offers an unmatched combination of access, luxury, challenge, and ethical opportunity.

World-Class Adventure Without Leaving the Country

More Than a Hunt: The Full Experience

A Taste of the Exotic: Species You Can Hunt in Texas

Texas is the New Global Destination

Axis Deer: With their eye-catching spotted coats and exceptional meat quality, Axis deer are a favorite among both trophy hunters and wild game enthusiasts. Bucks can weigh up to 210 pounds, and their antlers frequently measure over 30 inches.

An estimated 125,000 Axis deer roam freely in Texas, making it the largest population outside their native range.

Blackbuck Antelope: These fast, agile antelope are known for their stunning spiraled horns and black-and-white coloration. They’re challenging to hunt due to their speed (up to 50 mph) and sharp eyesight.

Over 50,000 Blackbuck are in Texas, with numbers continuing to grow.

Scimitar Horned Oryx: Once extinct in the wild, these elegant creatures are now abundant in Texas. Their majestic, backward-curving horns and large body size (up to 450 lbs.) make them a top-tier trophy.

More than 11,000 Scimitar Horned Oryx now reside in the Lone Star State, the largest population globally.

Many exotic hunting ranches in Texas offer a complete outdoor experience that rivals international lodges and safari camps. You can expect:

Private guided hunts tailored to your preferences.
Comfortable or luxury lodging, ranging from rustic cabins to high-end lodges.
Meat processing and taxidermy coordination so you can take home your prize in style.
Family- or group-friendly options, perfect for bonding or corporate retreats.

Some ranches even offer packages that include meals prepared by chefs, shooting ranges for practice, and on-site amenities like fishing, hiking, or ATVs—turning your hunt into a full-blown getaway.

Why Choose Texas Over an Overseas Safari?

Another major advantage to going on an exotic hunt in Texas is how customizable the hunting experience can be. You can plan a single-day hunt or book an extended weekend package. Whether you’re a solo adventurer or part of a larger group, flexibility allows you to choose your pace, game, and setting.

Want to combine multiple species in one trip? No problem. Interested in adding a native game species like whitetail or wild boar? Many outfitters and ranches offer combination hunts that make the most of your time afield.

Exotic hunting in Texas is not just about trophies. It’s about heritage, land stewardship, and creating memorable experiences. It’s an activity that honors tradition while supporting future conservation.

And for those who love cooking wild game, the benefits don’t end when the hunt does. The meat from exotic species like axis deer or scimitar horned oryx is lean, flavorful, and highly regarded among chefs and foodies alike. Many hunters leave with coolers full of premium, organic protein to share with family and friends.

2. Year-Round Hunting Opportunities

Many international destinations have narrow hunting seasons due to weather or breeding cycles. Texas, on the other hand, allows exotic hunting 365 days a year. This means you can plan a trip around your schedule whether it's a summer escape or a winter holiday. The ability to hunt outside traditional seasons gives you access to trophy animals in their prime condition at virtually any time.

3. Cost-Effective Without Cutting Corners

An African plains game safari can cost $10,000 to $25,000 once you factor in travel, guides, trophy fees, and transport. Exotic hunts in Texas typically cost a fraction of that, while still offering high-quality animals, experienced guides, and luxury accommodations. You’ll also save on travel insurance, airfare, international shipping, and taxidermy export permits.

4. High-Quality Game and Trophy Genetics

Texas is home to over 500 private ranches that manage thriving populations of exotic species. These herds are often carefully managed for genetic quality, health, and trophy growth. In many cases, the animals hunted here are larger and healthier than their wild counterparts, thanks to controlled environments, predator-free zones, and nutritional management.

Flexible, Accessible, and Customizable

5. Ethical and Conservation-Minded Practices

One of the strongest arguments for exotic hunts in Texas is its impact on conservation. Species like the scimitar horned oryx, once extinct in the wild, now thrive here in sustainable herds. Revenue from hunting goes directly into habitat maintenance, herd health, and breeding programs.
Many ranches operate under strict management practices to ensure that hunting is not just a sport, but part of a responsible ecological system. When done correctly, exotic hunts in Texas help preserve species that are endangered or struggling in their native habitats.

Exotic Hunts in Texas

While the species themselves are diverse and exotic, the way they thrive in Texas makes for an authentic and challenging hunt. Three standout exotic game species that attract hunters from around the country include: