Hunting Lease Liability Insurance in Texas

Hunting is a big part of life for Texas residents. From deer camps on big ranches to early mornings in duck blinds, hunters across the state take pride in their time outdoors. But whether you’re a landowner opening your gates or a hunter leasing land for the season, there’s more to think about than just the hunt. Hunting leases come with real responsibilities… and risks. That’s where hunting lease liability insurance comes in. It helps protect both landowners and hunters if something goes wrong. At Rollo Insurance, we know how important hunting is to Texans. We’re here to help you get the right coverage so you can focus on the hunting season ahead and not the “what ifs.”

What is Hunting Lease Liability Insurance?

Hunting lease liability insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed to protect landowners and/or hunters from financial losses due to accidents or injuries that occur on a leased property used for hunting. It provides coverage specifically for the risks associated with hunting activities.

Who Needs Hunting Lease Liability Insurance?

Both landowners and hunters who lease property should consider this specialized insurance:

• For Landowners: If you lease out your property for hunting, you face liability if a hunter or guest is injured on your land. While Texas has certain recreational use statutes that offer some protection to landowners, these statutes do not provide absolute immunity. A specific hunting lease liability policy protects you from lawsuits if an accident occurs.
• For Hunters/Lessee: If you are leasing property for hunting, you often sign an agreement taking on responsibility for the safety of your hunting party and guests. You can be held liable if a member of your group, or even an uninvited guest, is injured on the leased land.

What Are Some Risks Associated With Hunting Leases in Texas?

Hunting leases come with specific dangers that standard homeowners or farm liability policies might not fully cover, or for which limits might be insufficient:

• Accidental Shootings
• Tree Stand Falls
• ATV/UTV Accidents
• Falls on Uneven Terrain
• Injuries from Wildlife
• Damage to Property
• Trespasser Injury
• Improper Use of Blinds/Stands

What Does Hunting Lease Liability Insurance Cover?

Hunting lease liability insurance typically covers:

• Bodily Injury: Medical expenses, lost wages, and legal defense costs if a hunter, guest, or even a trespasser is injured on the leased property.
• Property Damage: Damage to third-party property (e.g., neighbor’s fence, public land) caused by activities on the lease.
• Legal Defense Costs: Covers your legal fees if a lawsuit is filed, even if the claim is eventually dismissed.

Policies can often be tailored to include specific coverages like:

• Landowner as Additional Insured: Crucial for landowners, ensuring they are protected under the hunter’s policy.
• Accident Medical Coverage: For smaller medical expenses for hunters/guests.
• Guest Liability: For injuries to non-paying guests.
• Fire Legal Liability: For accidental fires caused to leased premises.

What is Not Covered by Hunting Lease Liability Insurance?

Common exclusions often include:

• Intentional Acts: Injuries or damage caused by deliberate harmful actions.
• Commercial Operations: If the lease is used for commercial activities beyond recreational hunting (e.g., guided hunts beyond the lease group).
• Owner’s Personal Home/Farm: This policy is for the leased land, not your primary residence or main farming operations (those need separate homeowners or farm insurance).
• Pre-existing Conditions or Illnesses.
• Damage to Your Own Property/Gear: This is typically covered by your personal property insurance.
• Vehicle Accidents on Public Roads: Your personal or commercial auto policy would cover this.

Average Cost of Hunting Lease Liability Insurance in Texas

The cost of hunting lease liability insurance in Texas can be surprisingly affordable, especially compared to the potential costs of a lawsuit. Premiums vary based on:

• Acreage of the Lease: Larger areas often have higher premiums.
• Number of Hunters/Members: More members can increase the risk exposure.
• Type of Hunting: Some activities might be considered higher risk.
• Coverage Limits: The amount of liability protection you choose (e.g., $1 million, $2 million).
• Deductible: How much you’d pay out of pocket for a claim.
• Specific Activities: Whether special activities are allowed (e.g., target practice).
• Claims History: Past claims can influence rates.

To give a general idea, annual premiums for a hunting lease liability policy in Texas might range from $300 – $1,000+ per year. This can often be split among lease members, making it even more economical.

Protecting Your Hunt with Rollo Insurance

Hunting in Texas is a cherished activity, but enjoying it safely means being prepared for the unexpected. Hunting lease liability insurance provides essential protection for both landowners and lessees, ensuring that accidents don’t turn into financial disasters. At Rollo Insurance, we’re dedicated to helping Texans navigate the unique needs of hunting season. Smart hunters plan ahead. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you secure your passion in the great outdoors.