Whitetail Forecast Takeaways and Reminders

* Good spring/early summer rainfall promotes improved habitat conditions that lead to good antler growth and fawn production.

* By June 2024, over 70 percent of Texas experienced either no drought conditions or was only considered abnormally dry. Despite the expected hot and dry conditions during the summer, the spring boost should result in an increase in the quality of deer harvested this fall. * Ranches that do a good job managing deer numbers, improving native habitats and providing supplemental feed will see consistent improvements in the deer population over time.

* Modern hunters are much more mindful about deer management than 20 years ago.In 2005,only 21 percent of harvested bucks statewide were 4 1/2 or older. Last season, the number jumped to a record 53 percent. * Doe days are expanded to 23 days in Pineywoods and Post Oak counties that previously has a 16 day antlerless season.