About Drone Deer Recovery In Texas

Statutes put in place by the Texas Legislature do not allow Texas Parks and Wildlife to permit the use of drones to help recover wounded animals.  

The following is taken directly from TXPW: 

["Department rules are adopted under the framework and guidelines of the Federal Airborne Hunting Act. The use of aircraft (including drones) to pursue or recover wildlife in association with recreational or “sport” hunting activity is not permitted. Texas law does allow a hunter to contract as a sub-agent to participate in the taking of feral hogs and coyotes in accordance with the provisions of the Aerial Management Permit.

Under federal law, it is a violation to use an aircraft for any of these activities unless a permit is issued by the respective state. Federal guidelines specify the states may not issue permits for sport hunting. Failure to comply with these rules may constitute a Class A misdemeanor and/or violations of the Federal Airborne Hunting Act."]

The next legislative session for Texas is January 2025.  Until then, there will not be any changes in the law governing the use of drones for deer recovery.