New Deer Hunting Regulations

SMITH COUNTY - As fall approaches in East Texas, many sportsmen and women's thoughts focus on the coming deer season.

In several counties, there is a significant change in the hunting regulations this year, most notably what has become known as the "antler restriction rule."

This year is the first year that every East Texas county is enforcing the antler restriction rule.

Smith County Game Warden Chris Green tells us the regulation is fairly straightforward.

Each hunter is allowed a total of two bucks.

"One of them can be un-branched antler, at least one side has to be a spike," Mr. Green explains.

Green says the other buck allowed is your trophy deer.

The deer has to have an inside antler spread of at least 13 inches, regardless of the total number of points.

With this season being the first time many counties across East Texas are enforcing this law, game wardens will be willing to work with you.

So if you kill one that's a little short, please don't leave it in the woods.