South Texas

Many of us start off with certain preconceived notions about dogs. They might seem like a nuisance, capable of creating perpetual chaos, and often interfere with our solitary routines. However, sometimes, life takes an unexpected turn, and a faithful four-legged friend becomes an integral part of your world. In this South Texas rancher profile, we delve into a personal journey that began with skepticism but transformed into an unbreakable bond, all thanks to a remarkable hunting dog named Cinco.

In the vast expanse of South Texas, nestled between Pipe Creek and Boerne, lies the towering testament to engineering brilliance, the Double D Ranch, and its creator, L. L. “Dave” Davis. The ranch, a testament to Davis's visionary spirit, spans 740 acres of picturesque hill country landscape. At its pinnacle stands an awe-inspiring 101-foot-tall steel cross, a symbol of Davis's deep-rooted faith and unwavering determination.

In the sprawling landscapes of South Texas, where the legacy of ranching runs deep, there exists a visual storyteller whose lens breathes life into the tales of the land and its people. Larry Trulove, a seasoned photographer with a penchant for finding beauty in the simplest of moments, has carved a niche for himself in the hearts of thousands with his captivating imagery. From the expansive plains to the rugged charm of the oil country, Trulove's lens has faithfully documented the essence of a region where every frame narrates a story of resilience and spirit.

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country River Region, the Annandale Ranch stands as a testament to both natural beauty and the profound history of its region. This sprawling 14,000-acre ranch has been cherished by six generations of the Floria family, a legacy that dates back to 1889 when Judge Lewis Floria and his wife, Eliza, purchased the land. Over the years, it has witnessed moments that are both extraordinary and poignant.

Nestled high in the picturesque hills above Medina, Texas, lies a hidden gem of a ranch, a sprawling 3,000-acre expanse known as Two Bow Ranch. For over two decades, Ron Toms and his wife Fran have lovingly tended to this wild and untamed landscape, transforming it from an almost impenetrable cedar-covered rocky terrain into a haven of natural beauty and wonder. Their tireless efforts have not only improved the quality of the land but have also contributed to the flourishing health of the native wildlife.

Meet Jason Michalak, a drag racing record-holder turned ranch owner in Con Can, Texas, proving that life's fastest moments can seamlessly transition into the slow, scenic beauty of the Hill Country.

In 2016, Michalak, along with his family, embarked on a bold journey to transform 750 acres of cedar-covered mountains into the Michalak Ranch. Armed with heavy machinery, he carved 30 miles of roads through challenging terrain, creating a haven atop a cedar mountain facing Highway 83.

In the heart of South Texas, a remarkable story of resilience, camaraderie, and the power of the great outdoors unfolds. It all began with a simple drawing on a napkin, a deer sketched by TJ duPerier for his 8-year-old cousin Weston Jenkins. Little did they know that this humble gesture would ignite a lifelong passion for hunting and, eventually, lead to the creation of Disabled Outdoorsmen USA (DOUSA), a non-profit organization that empowers individuals with disabilities to embrace the joys of outdoor activities.

In the heart of South Texas, where the vibrant sunrise casts a scarlet glow over green winter wheat fields and irrigation pivots move in synchronized choreography, the Kincaid Ranch awakens to another busy day. Here, just south of Highway 140 between Pearsall and Uvalde, the La Bodega pens are bustling with full-grown cattle on a crisp January morning. Cuatro Light, known as George Light IV, leads a dedicated team that includes veterinarian Anthony Allen and five skilled cowhands, as they palpate, vaccinate, and care for 14 crossbred cows, each at different stages of gestation.

This article delves into the remarkable legacy of the Elliott family, South Texas ranchers with a deep-rooted connection to the land and a commitment to tradition. It all began with a young Tex Elliott, who, at the age of ten, embarked on a journey from Port Arthur to Laredo, driven by his passion for cattle ranching and the influence of his grandfather, A. E. "Lonnie" Gates.

Nestled along the banks of the Sabinal River, some 60 miles west of San Antonio and 30 miles south of the captivating Texas Hill Country, the Shudde Ranch stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Lone Star State. This century-old family ranch, purchased through the painstaking cultivation of Guajillo honey and nurtured across generations, weaves a rich tapestry of tradition, innovation, and a steadfast reverence for the natural world.