The Burleson and Washington County Wildlife Associations in conjunction with the US Army Corps of Engineers, the National Association of Handicapped Outdoor Sportsmen (NAHOS), the Lions Club of Somerville, and the Rotary Club of Somerville sponsor the Annual Challenged Hunter Deer Hunt.

To be eligible for the hunt, applicant's must be confined to a wheelchair, possess a valid Texas hunting license, and possess a valid driver's license or identification card.

A drawing is conducted by the Burleson County Wildlife Association. As many as twenty-eight (28) hunters are selected randomly from all applications received by the designated deadline. Up to five (5) alternates are selected and notified if a chosen hunter is unable to participate.

The hunting areas have been selected with the assistance of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department personnel. Hunter safety and game availability have been the prime considerations. Roads are not all-weather, and accessibility to some blinds is dependent on weather conditions. All blinds are enclosed. All blinds have corn feeders and food plots if conditions are favorable. Most opportunities will be within sixty yards, possibly closer.

An experienced guide will be assigned to each hunter to provide transportation and assistance. Hunters are required to have a guide with them at all times. Hunters will also have an assigned portable radio with them at all times for assistance calls. A hunter may bring a companion for assistance, if prior arrangements have been made with the Hunt Coordinator.

Only one (1) weapon will be allowed per hunter. Only non-rimfire rifles and shotguns will be permitted. Any exceptions will require prior approval by the Hunt Coordinator. No handguns will be used or carried. Keep in mind that opportunities will be relatively close, and the area is brushy around most blinds. Bring enough ammunition to participate in the range firing (must show proficient aim to participate in hunt) and the hunt.

Hunters may harvest only those deer specified by the Hunt Coordinator. These numbers will be determined after conducting spotlight surveys and the data is run by a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department biologist. Once the game is harvested the hunt is completed for that hunter. Local preparation of the game is available or the hunter may make arrangements elsewhere.

Only guide vehicles and vehicles authorized by the Hunt Coordinator will be allowed in the hunting areas. Visitors and family members are not allowed in the hunting areas unless they are approved guides.

No alcoholic beverages are permitted.

Make sure to dress for the conditions. Light rainwear may be desirable.

A flashlight is suggested to aid the hunter in getting situated in the blind.

Bring a cooler to transport game home. Ice will be furnished, but coolers will not be furnished.

The reservoir is located near Texas Highway 36 in Somerville ( directions ). Lodging with handicap facilities are available.

For more information, contact the Somerville Lake Office .