Upland Hunt 2025

Inaugural Upland Hunt 2025

The Geophysical Society of Houston, or GSH, had its inaugural upland hunt in Dime Box, Texas, on January 17. Dime Box, a small, peaceful country hamlet in Texas with a population of 250, was first populated by Germans and Czechs in 1870. The community was named Brown's Mill after the nearby gristmill that served as the settlement's inspiration. The name change was sought by the U.S. Post Office because it believed that "Brown's Mill" might be mistaken for "Brownsville." Because it was customary to leave a dime in a box for the guy who rode a horse to deliver mail and packages from Giddings, one resident came up with the name Dime Box. From its original mill location, Dime Box relocated to the area along the ancient El Camino Real (now about Highway 21). The town grew and changed again in 1913 with the arrival of the railroad.

The charming little village of Dime Box is surrounded by expansive ranches that have been owned by the same family for many generations. At the Dismukes Ranch, a family developed the "Quail Hunt Dime Box," which offers an excellent hunting experience. Their 900 acres of natural grass and short brush-covered blackland prairie, post-oak savannah with better grazing, moderately wooded uplands, and thickly wooded bottomlands are perfect for upland birds like chukars, quail, and pheasants.

The hunters showed up prepared to scout the fields for game. I believe the dogs were even more excited! For the guide and hunters, the sky was clear and the temperature was 55°. Both factors contributed to the day's relative comfort. Before the hunting day begins, coffee and training were necessary for the group. During the hunting break at noon, Empress Exploration provided a delicious, hearty hot lunch in an historic cabin on site. In the afternoon, the hunt was most successful. Overall, the hunters appreciated each other's company and skills while reaching their hunting limits.

Interestingly the hunting area lies on the surface of the Eagle Ford strata, and it is peppered with activity, production pads, and wells. The oil wells are a reminder that we may still be environmentally conscious while stewarding the natural resources below and providing food for wildlife on the surface.

The day ended with stories of the hunt, beverages and snack while the guide processed the birds for the hunters.

The GSH is excited to host again the Upland Hunt the next year! We will make sure to include you, your clients, friends, and family in the upcoming hunt if you are interested and would like to be added to the mailing list. Please send an email to office@gshtx.org with the subject "upland hunt."

Until 2026, happy hunting!!