Eric grew up immersed in the outdoors, thanks to a father who regularly took him hunting on leases and friends’ ranches. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for the land, wildlife, and the traditions that surround them. What began as local lease hunts evolved into a calling, one rooted in stewardship, respect for God’s creation, and sharing the outdoors with friends who inevitably became family.
Eric lives full time on the ranch with his family, where he manages the day to day operations as the founder of Santa Cruz Ranch Hunting Services. From preparing and guiding hunts to animal tracking, field dressing, cooking, and everything in between. He is no stranger to the hard work required for a successful and ethical hunt. His hands on approach ensures every guest experiences the ranch at the highest level of quality and authenticity.
In addition to being a seasoned outdoorsman and guide, Eric is a dedicated wildlife photographer. He spends countless hours in the field capturing raw, unscripted moments of wildlife, often during the most intimate and fleeting parts of nature’s rhythm. His passion for photography has taken him beyond Texas, touring other countries on photography excursions and expanding his perspective on wildlife, landscapes, and conservation across the globe.
Outside of the hunting operation, Eric also works in the construction industry, a career he deeply enjoys. The fusion of his two passions, outdoors and construction, led him to personally design and renovate the ranch’s lodging facilities, blending functionality, comfort, and authentic ranch character.
Above all, Eric values time with his family. When time permits, he continues to travel the world on hunting, fishing, and photography adventures, always driven by gratitude for the outdoors and a deep appreciation for the beauty of God’s creations.
Richard Bailey more commonly known as Rick or even “Bailey” was born and raised in South Texas. He joined the SCR family as a business partner in 2021. He has said that his fascination for the outdoors is what moved him to find a ranch to be more involved with his love for hunting.
He is also a local business owner, he owns a popular shooting range and local insurance company. Another deep rooted passion is racing classic cars from his personal collection.
Rick and his wife Sandra have been married for ten years and combined have 6 children. They enjoy spending their free time in the water fishing, hunting or in the hill country.
Pablo Garza is one of the first hunting guides acquired when SCR was established. Through the years he has built an outstanding reputation with our clientele due to his commitment to providing an exceptional experience. His personality and character are an important part of making the hunt enjoyable. He knows how to make the client feel at ease and lightens the mood even when the hunting is tough.
Pablo has 50 years of hunting experience which has made him very aware of game patterns, movements and is knowledgeable of the animals being pursed.
Pablo has worked for the local power company for well of 4 decades. He began his career as a meter reader and now manages crews in multiple municipalities. He and his wife Sonia have three children and is the father of managing partner Eric J Garza. Pablo enjoys and finds peace in hunting and fishing.
Like many others in the guiding world, Desi was involved in all things outdoors alongside his father at a young age. His father knew the importance of raising Desi in this amazing culture. It was then that Desi developed his passion for the outdoors. From hunting, fishing to wildlife photography. As the years progressed he learned the patterns in native and exotic animals. With this experience, he learned ins and outs on being a hunting guide. Guiding clients and assisting them to harvest their trophy excites Desi as if he was the actual hunter himself. He is always focused and in the moment with each and every hunter. Desi strives to make our clients comfortable, excited and successful each and every time. Every client departs knowing that Desi exudes 100% effort every second of their hunt.
Desi works at a local medical equipment company. When he isn't working he is on local ranches or on the water doing what he loves best! Wildlife Photography.
Nick is a USMC Veteran who has always enjoyed the outdoors. From hunting, fishing and guiding he was born to be living the outdoor lifestyle. He's a devoted father, husband and friend. Prior to becoming a guide for Santa Cruz Ranch, he was a Federal Game Warden. He currently assists managing a local plumbing company. His knowledge and background are an advantage used at the ranch. His goal is to make sure that every guest has an unforgettable experience.
Lolon Masker has a passion for cooking. He can stir up just about anything you can think of. From a South Texas barbecue feast to a mouth watering wagyu steak. As he would say, you shouldn’t trust a skinny cook. It all started at a young age in the kitchen with his mom and grandmother. He brought his delicious skills to SCR a few years ago. When he isn’t in the kitchen making greatness, he’s serving mix drinks to entertain everyone.
He’s a father of 4 and enjoys horse riding, poker and dancing to good music.
Meet Aydin Torres. A young hunting guide but very knowledgeable about the animals and land. He is always quick to lend a helping hand to all that are involved. His love for the outdoors started at a very early age and only grew with hunting. He strives to learn all he can and be an exemplary outdoorsmen.
Aydin is currently a college student. He enjoys lifting weights and has competed nationally on a shooting team.
