The new hunts in Mexico take place on a 14,000-acre cattle ranch about an hour south of Laredo, Texas. The property was formerly operated by Bowmex, and Shockey has now taken over as outfitter for the area using many of the same people who have run the ranch for years. According to Dan Goodenow, in charge of sales and development for the Shockey operation, the entire ranch is archery only and has been for many years. That makes it a haven for bucks avoiding rifle hunters on adjoining properties. The animals are all completely free range, as there are no high fences in the area.
"Facilities are fairly Spartan," Goodenow warns. This is a "guys'" hunting camp, with a common bunkroom, shared bath and seven bunks, though only five are normally filled at any one time. There are two additional cabins a mile away normally used for couples or female hunters. The cook will do steaks and Tex/Mex, but hunters should keep in mind that they are in a hunting camp and not a five star lodge, says Goodenow.
What the place does offer is an honest chance to take a P & Y buck from one of the 17 to 18 active blinds and feeders set up on the property. They rotate blinds every week and are willing to move them during the season if deer are being seen elsewhere. They also have a few fixed elevated blinds in proven areas. According to Goodenow, there's lots of elbow room for hunters to spread out, with at least 800 acres for each client to hunt.
In past years, the operation has averaged roughly a........(continued)
