Whitetail hunts on Rust Ranch are semi-guided. Hunts are typically done over corn feeders out of box blinds, pop-up blinds, or tripods depending on hunting method and preference, with the exception of rattling, or spot and stalk hunting, in which the hunter will be guided by the ranch manager.
Transportation to and from hunt setups will be provided. For rifle hunts, most feeders are from 80-100 yards the blinds. For archery hunts done from pop-ups or tripods, most feeders are within +/-20 yards. When hunting from setups such as rifle or archery blinds, hunters will not be accompanied by a guide, therefore they have the option to take the buck of their choosing. While we try to stress the importance of practicing proper management techniques and taking mature deer, we want the hunter to be able to enjoy themselves and take a buck of their choosing. As long as the hunter is happy, we are happy.
Whitetail Hunt Package (October – Mid-January):
- Hunt Fee: $1000/hunter (non-refundable) – 3 day/2 night with Lodging (Meals not included)
- Up to 5 hogs and two whitetail doe included with hunt fee
- Additional hog or doe: $100/each
- Whitetail buck of your choice: $2000
- Rio Grande hen: $100
- Rio Grande jake or tom: $500
- Axis can be taken at the listed price below
Axis hunting on Rust Ranch can be done the same way as whitetail hunts, as an unguided hunt from box blind or bow stand, or semi-guided when hunting by other methods such as safari style or spot and stalk.
Given the nomadic nature and weariness of Axis deer, it is sometimes more beneficial to hunt them in a spot-and-stalk method, safari style method, or from bluffs along the creek overlooking open areas with feeders. Unless hunting Axis from a box blind or bow stand, hunters will be accompanied by the ranch manager to assist in locating the animals and navigating the ranch.
Axis Hunt Package (Spring & Early Summer):
- Hunt Fee: $1000/hunter (non-refundable) – 3 day/2 night with Lodging (Meals not included)
- Up to 5 hogs included with hunt fee
- Additional hog: $100 each
- Axis doe: $500 (1 per hunter)
- Axis buck: $3000
Hog hunting can be done in the same styles as axis and whitetail hunting.
Rust Ranch has a healthy population of feral hogs, which provides hunters with different methods of hunting them. Night hunting is currently not permitted by the ranch.
Offseason Hog Hunt (February-September):
- Hunt Fee: $750/hunter (non-refundable) – 3 day/2 night with Lodging (Meals not included)
- Up to 5 hogs included with hunt fee
- Additional hog: $100 each
- Upgrading to an axis hunt will include an additional non-refundable $250/hunter and Axis can be taken at the price listed for axis.
During turkey season, corn feeders are kept full and running to maintain our huntable population.
Hunters have the option to either hunt over feeders, near feeders, or away from feeders depending on their preference. Turkey hunts are semi-guided. Semi-guided meaning the ranch manager will provide transportation to and from hunting areas, and assist in showing the hunter around key areas, and allowing them to wander as the hunt requires. All turkey hunters who choose to pursue turkeys away from blind/feeder setups will be shown boundaries, off-limits areas, and given all information to help make the hunt a successful one. The ranch manager will typically stay in an area with cell signal and close by in case of emergency. Extensive scouting is done by the ranch manager leading up to the season, accompanied by years of experience with turkey patterns on the property.
Spring Turkey Hunt:
- Hunt Fee: $1000/hunter (non-refundable) – includes one Tom, 3 day/2 night with Lodging (Meals not included)
- $500 for additional Tom, Max. 2 Toms/hunter
- Up to 5 hogs included
