Double Diamond Outfitters

Double Diamond Outfitters operates two distinct elk hunting operations in Texas. The West Texas free-range hunts cover over 500,000 acres in the state's western mountain ranges—the only place in Texas to hunt wild elk. The Hill Country operation spans 11.5 square miles with 200-300 elk that were born and raised on the ranch, not purchased and released annually like most high-fence operations.

"Most ranchers buy Elk and release them every year. That yields bigger bulls, but they aren't very wild, and the experience is more of a harvest than it is a hunt."

Double Diamond's Hill Country elk are genuinely wild within the high-fence perimeter. The terrain features large canyons, meadows, and plateaus that create real hunting conditions.

• •Physical Demands: Hill Country hunts are less strenuous than West Texas free-range, and both are significantly easier than Rocky Mountain elk hunts. Safari-style vehicle hunting is available for hunters with mobility concerns or lower fitness levels.

During the September-October rut, guides use multiple tactics: - Calling hunts when bulls are bugling and receptive to cow calls - Water hole and wallow sits during hotter, drier periods - Glassing and stalking across open country

A typical day starts before daylight with breakfast, breaks mid-morning for brunch/lunch, then hunts into late afternoon. You get exclusive ranch access—no crowded lodge with strangers. Evenings include hot meals and a relaxing camp atmosphere.

• •Over-the-counter tags (no state drawing)
• •No closed season
• •Rifles or archery allowed
• •Non-resident 5-day license: $48
• •Book well in advance: typically 1-2 years out

• •Included: Meals, lodging, guide, ranch transportation, field care of trophy
• •Not included: License, gratuities, travel to ranch, trophy processing, non-coffee drinks

• •Javelina ($600, West Texas)
• •Aoudad ($3,750, West Texas)
• •Axis ($3,500, Hill Country)
• •Blackbuck ($2,500, Hill Country)