Planning a trip can be exciting but when your time is limited, it can be both challenging and frustrating. We prepared Tillie's Planner to help simplify this process. To help provide specific answers to typical questions, we have provided links to websites where you can find the most current information available. If there is anything else you would like more information on please do not hesitate to contact us.
Standard Hunting Package
As a matter of privacy for our guests we book no more than one hunting party at a time at Tillie's even if there is only one hunter. Most hunts are 3 days and 2 nights although if you wish to stay longer that can be arranged for an additional lodging fee. Typically hunters arrive early on Friday morning and depart Sunday evening. If this does not work for you, we will accommodate your schedule. Whether you are flying in or driving we make every effort to maximize your time hunting. Non-hunting companions are welcome to join you during your visit to Tillie's. The additional fee is $300 per non-hunting companion for a 3 day package. With enough advance notice we can also arrange day trips to Fredericksburg which has great shopping and excellent German restaurants for your non-hunting companion. Please see the details in our pricing tab under the Hunting section. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Parent/Child Hunting Package
Given the importance of finding quality time to spend with our children, we offer special hunting packages for parents with children who are 17 and younger. Please see the details in our pricing tab under the Hunting section. If you have questions or children with special needs, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Weather
Central Texas weather can vary significantly with temperatures ranging from warm to below freezing within a few short hours. Because the weather can be so unpredictable, make sure you check the weather site below to confirm what you should expect during your visit. If in doubt, the best advice is to bring layers of clothing to 'dress up or down' depending on actual weather conditions. To look at the weather at Tillie's Ranch, please click here.
Air Travel
If you are arriving by air, please fly into either Austin Bergstrom Airport or San Antonio Airport. Logistically, Austin is a little easier for us but use the airport where you can find the best deal. Transportation to and from the airport is provided as a courtesy and is free of charge. The links below may assist you in finding the best fare. If you are planning on taking your favorite hunting rifle, please take a moment to visit theTSA web site to review requirements for flying with hunting rifles.
Air travel booking links:
Kayak
Expedia
Travelocity
Clothing
Camo clothing works well and is recommended especially if you intend to still hunt. However, contrary to conventional wisdom it is not absolutely necessary for a successful hunt. All mammals' eyes have rods and cones which are cells that receive light. Rods are particularly sensitive to low light and do not register color, while cones pick up color in daylight. Humans have more cones than rods so we distinguish color very well but don't do so well seeing at night. Deer on the other hand, have more rods than cones so they see especially well at night but do not distinguish color very well. Functionally, deer are limited to the violet end of the spectrum which means they see blue very well and are sensitive to yellow; however, green, red and orange appear only as shades of grey to deer. Bottom line, don't wear blues or yellows when you are hunting you'll probably do just fine. A warm jacket, sweater, hat with ear protection and gloves are a must from November through February and don't forget to bring a pair of long johns if a cold front is projected during your visit. We do not offer laundry services so please bring enough clothing for your entire visit.
Hunting clothing links:
Sierra Trading Post
Cabela's
L.L. Bean
Boots
A good pair of boots that are broken in and
comfortable can make the difference in having a great hunt. If you intend to
still hunt a lightweight soft soled boot will enable you to move quietly
without dragging or scuffing your feet as you stalk your prey. Also ensure you
bring a pair of slippers to wear around the lodge.
Hunting boot links:
Schnee's
Cabela's
Hunting Rifles
Hunting with small caliber rifles (22-250-223 etc.) is not recommended. If you do not want to go through the trouble of carrying your own rifle we have a nice selection of hunting rifles that are available for your use. If you choose to use one of our rifles, all ammunition which has been hand loaded, tested and finely tuned to each rifle is provided free of charge. Black powder and hand gun hunters are welcome too, although we do not have black powder rifles or handguns for your use. If you are bringing your own rifle, please ensure you bring enough ammo for your hunt.
Bow Hunting
We have tree stands, tripods and pop-up ground blinds for your use while bow hunting at Tillie's. Because we will only book one hunting party at a time you will never have to worry about rifle hunters conflicting with your hunt at Tillie's.
Binoculars and Rangefinder
Light weight high powered binoculars with good light gathering capability for early mornings and early evenings when deer are most active are recommended. Most shots will be under a hundred yards although you will likely have opportunities to test your long range shooting skills. A rangefinder will significantly improve your chances on a long range shot. Your guide will have a range finder if you don't and we do have extra binoculars should you forget yours.
Large Coolers
We have a walk-in game cooler to hang your animal until you are ready to depart. If you will not be using a local meat processor/ taxidermist you will need to bring at least one large cooler to get your trophy home. There is an area set up where you can comfortably prepare your animal for the trip home. In addition to knives and cutting boards we have a vacuum sealer for your use to protect your game from the effects of oxygen and freezer burn.
Medications and Personal Items
The closest store and pharmacy is 35 miles away so please be sure to pack everything you will need for your entire visit. Scent free soap and shampoo for hunters and regular scented soap, shampoo and conditioner for our non-hunting guests is provided. If you do forget something we will do our best to get what you need.
Camera
There will be many opportunities for taking pictures. Ensure you have enough free space on your camera’s memory card for your entire outing and a spare set of batteries. We will take photos of you with every animal you shoot and provide you with a CD disc with photos from your hunt.
What Is Not Included
- Airfare
- Texas Hunting License
- Gratuities
Tillie's Release Waiver
Please read the following document prior to visiting Tillie's Game Ranch. All guests must sign the waiver at check in and prior to participating in any activities. If you have any questions please contact us .
Click here to download the Release Waiver (pdf)
