What type of weather should I expect during my hunt? In December and January it is very possible to have a hard frost in the morning, then temperatures into the upper 70s by afternoon. On the flip side, I have seen a week straight of 80 degree weather set in, but this is a rare occurrence. Most days the wind blows lightly, but on occasion it can make you thankful that our blinds are staked solidly into the ground. One of my favorite aspects of Mexico's climate is the amount of sunshine we receive. So don't forget the sunscreen, and if you are a bit light on the top bring a hat!
What type of clothes should I bring on my hunt? Because the weather is variable, we advise hunters to dress by layering. I like a Polartec type of undergarment (moisture wicking material), then camo clothing and maybe a hoodie of some type. Warm hat, quality gloves, and light boots work well. Riding a quad at daybreak in 40-degree weather can get chilly. On the other hand, sometimes you might see 80 at midday, so throw in a light set of camo if possible. If you plan on doing any predator calling, deer spotting and stalking, or tracking, a pair of chaps will make the journey much more comfortable. Chaps are perfect for tracking a wounded buck on horseback. Back at the lodge, a nice pair of house shoes work nice for the chilly mornings. Pack lip balm, sunscreen, tweezers, and any personal hygiene articles you might need.
What type of equipment is needed? A good set of optics is strongly recommended. This enables you to assess the quality of your deer better. Video and digital cameras are valuable, as in most situations you will be able to video-tape your kill. There are lots of once-in-a-lifetime events (buck fights, predator sightings, and unbelievable scenery) that you will have an excellent chance of witnessing.
What is the house like? The Casa Blanco (White House) has four separate bedrooms each with a private bath. Other than your personal hygiene items all bedding, pillows, hand lotion, towels, hand soap, etc. are provided. The house has a large dining and living area for fellowship after the day's hunt. House shoes, hair dryer, chap stick, tweezers, sunscreen and flashlights are great items to pack.
How are the deer hunted on the ranch? The three most common techniques used on the ranch are as follows: 1) Hunting from an enclosed blind situated overlooking a food plot or at an intersection of roads which have had corn spread on them. 2) Spot and stalk by setting up in a location that allows a view of arroyos or valleys. Once the deer is sighted, you stalk into position to make the kill. 3) Hi-racking by driving, slowing along ranch roads, and using optics to glass side hills and canyons.
How hard is it to cross a weapon into Mexico? It is a simple task when done correctly. We use an agent to work with the military on our behalf and have never had a problem arise. We meet the authorities at the custom area, and they check serial numbers and ammo. The permit is arranged beforehand and normally takes under half an hour to check in your weapon. We also provide guns at the ranch for those who prefer not to deal with checking guns.
What type of equipment is on the ranch? As far as transportation goes, we have a half dozen 4-wheelers, three side-by-side RTVs, a late-model high rack truck and very rideable horses. We maintain ten free choice protein feeders year-round along with eighteen timed corn feeding stations. The main work area is powered by solar panels and has a large workshop. We have a walk-in cooler, two freezers, an air compressor, a portable welder, and most other hand tools. There is even a basketball court at the barn!
What happens after I shoot my deer? The fun begins! We have great quail and dove hunting along with predator-calling opportunities. There are hundreds of caves along the river canyon just waiting to be explored. The canyon was used as a major travel corridor during the Indian era, so the area abounds with artifacts. Horseback riding is also an option for those wanting to explore the far reaches of the 54-square-mile ranch.
What type of paperwork is needed to enter Mexico? There is no paperwork needed to enter Mexico. All U.S. hunters and vistors will require a passport or an enhanced Drivers License are required to return to the U.S. To download a passport application form go to NPIC@state.gov.
How do I get my antlers, cape and meat out of Mexico? We will assist you in every aspect of this procedure. We are issued tags for each animal that allows for the importation of these articles back into the U.S. The hide and meat must be frozen for at least 24 hours before they cross. (If you kill on the last two days, you will have to ship FedEx.) You can then either fly them back in a tote or ship FedEx. (Cape and hide cost about $150.) The meat can also be flown or FedExed. An extra bag check on the plane is usually around $80.
How is the transportation to the ranch handled? Paradise Canyon ranch is located 1 ½ hours from Del Rio, Texas. We pick up hunters in Del Rio on Sunday and drop them off on Friday evening. The only airline flying into Del Rio is Continental. Their web site is www.continental.com. We can assist with motel accommodation if needed. We transport the hunters across the border and proceed directly to the ranch. On Friday after the morning hunt, we return to the U.S.
How do I book a hunt? Call Sam at 231-631-9614 or Tracy at 231-633-4875. Once the dates are figured out a $1,000 deposit is required. Full payment is expected before your hunt begins. You can also e-mail us at logger@torchlake.com.