Hunting & Wildlife
Playa lakes in Hale County attract migratory waterfowl and hunting opportunities
Thousands of shallow playa lakes dot the South Plains and bring ducks, geese, and sandhill cranes through Hale County each fall and winter.
Playa lakes are small, round wetlands that form in low spots across the High Plains. They fill up after rain and attract large numbers of waterfowl during migration. Hale County sits along the Central Flyway, a major migration route. Hunters can pursue ducks and geese on private land with landowner permission, or on public wildlife management areas nearby through Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
TPWD manages Playa Lakes Wildlife Management Areas in the region. An Annual Public Hunting Permit from TPWD gives access to public hunting areas across Texas. You still need a valid Texas hunting license plus any required stamps. Check the TPWD outdoor annual for current seasons and bag limits before you go — waterfowl seasons and dates change year to year.
Source to confirm: TPWD – Public Hunting in Texas