Texas offers diverse hunting opportunities. Understanding the seasons and rules is crucial for a successful trip. This guide covers key game animals. It provides important dates and regulatory information. Always check the official Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) website for the most current details. 1
White-tailed Deer Season
White-tailed deer are the most popular game animal in Texas. Seasons vary by region and method.
| Season Type | Opens | Closes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archery | October 3, 2026 | November 6, 2026 | Archery-only, all counties with an open season. Archery Endorsement required. |
| General | November 7, 2026 | January 3, 2027 | North Zone general season. South Zone runs Nov. 7, 2026 - Jan. 17, 2027. County regulations control bag and antler rules. |
| General South Zone | November 7, 2026 | January 17, 2027 | South Zone general season. |
| Youth | October 30, 2026 | November 1, 2026 | Youth-only early weekend, both zones. North Zone also has a late youth season Jan. 4-17, 2027. Licensed hunters 16 or younger. |
| Muzzleloader | January 4, 2027 | January 17, 2027 | Muzzleloader-only season in counties with a muzzleloader season. |
| Special Late | January 4, 2027 | January 17, 2027 | North Zone special late season. South Zone runs Jan. 18-31, 2027. Antlerless and unbranched-antlered deer only. |
| Special Late South Zone | January 18, 2027 | January 31, 2027 | South Zone special late season. Antlerless and unbranched-antlered deer only. |
2026-2027 seasonVerified against Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 2026-2027 Outdoor Annual on September 5, 2026.Source: tpwd.texas.gov/regulations/outdoor-annual/regs/animals/white … Confirm dates in the current regulations before you hunt.
Archery Season
The archery season runs October 3, 2026 through November 6, 2026. This applies statewide. Hunters use bows and crossbows during this period.
General Season
The general season for white-tailed deer runs November 7, 2026 through January 3, 2027. Dates depend on the specific county and deer management zone. Be sure to confirm the exact start and end dates for your chosen hunting area.
Muzzleloader Season
The muzzleloader season runs January 4, 2027 through January 17, 2027. This follows the general season and provides an additional opportunity for traditional firearm hunters.
Special Late Season
A special late season runs January 4, 2027 through January 17, 2027 in the North Zone, with the South Zone running two weeks later (Jan. 18-31, 2027). This season is for antlerless or unbranched-antlered deer only.
Mule Deer Season
Mule deer are found primarily in West Texas. Their season is shorter than white-tailed deer.
General Season
Mule deer general season runs November 21, 2026 through December 6, 2026. It varies by county. <strong>Season limit:</strong> 2 [source]
Dove Season
Dove hunting is a big tradition in Texas. Seasons are split into three zones.
North Zone
The North Zone runs September 1, 2026 through November 8, 2026. A second segment may run in December and January.
Central Zone
The Central Zone runs September 1, 2026 through October 25, 2026. A second segment may run in December and January.
South Zone
The South Zone runs September 1, 2026 through October 25, 2026. A second segment runs from mid-December into January.
Waterfowl Season
Texas is a major flyway for migratory waterfowl. Seasons are set for ducks, geese, and coots.
Duck and Coot Season
Duck and coot seasons are split into two segments. The first usually runs from early November to late November. The second segment runs from early or mid-December through late January. Specific dates vary by zone.
Goose Season
Goose seasons, including light geese and dark geese, typically open in early November. They can extend into late January or early February. Conservation Order seasons for light geese may run even later.
Feral Hog Hunting
Feral hogs are not native to Texas. They are a nuisance species. There is no closed season or bag limit for feral hogs. Bag limit: No bag limit. No hunting license required on private property with landowner authorization. [source] You can hunt them year-round. This often makes them a popular target for hunters at landowners’ request. Always secure permission before hunting on private land.
Turkey Season
Both Eastern and Rio Grande turkeys are hunted in Texas. Seasons vary by species and region.
Rio Grande Turkey
Rio Grande turkey seasons typically open in late March for youth and early April for general hunters. They run through mid-May. County-specific regulations apply.
Eastern Turkey
Eastern turkey season is much shorter and more restricted. It usually runs about three weeks from late April into mid-May. It is primarily in East Texas.
Alligator Season
Alligator hunting is permitted by special permit in specific areas. The season usually runs from September to May. Access is often limited and requires careful planning and landowner permission.
Small Game and Other Species
Texas also has seasons for many other game animals.
Squirrel
Squirrel season is generally long. It can run from May through February. Limits vary.
Rabbit and Hare
Rabbits and hares have no closed season or bag limit. They can be hunted year-round.
Quail
Quail season runs November 1, 2026 through February 28, 2027. <strong>Daily limit:</strong> 15 | <strong>Possession limit:</strong> 45 [source]
Licensing Requirements
| License/Permit | Residency | Fee | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting License (Item 101) | Resident | $25.00 | hunting |
| Senior Resident Hunting License (Item 102) | Resident | $7.00 | hunting |
| Youth Hunting License (Item 169) | Any | $7.00 | hunting |
| Super Combo (Item 111) | Resident | $68.00 | hunting, fishing, archery endorsement, upland game bird endorsement, migratory game bird endorsement, freshwater and saltwater endorsements |
| Senior Super Combo (Item 117) | Resident | $32.00 | hunting, fishing, all state endorsements |
| Combo Hunting & All-Water Fishing Package (Item 505) | Resident | $60.00 | hunting, fishing, freshwater and saltwater endorsements |
| Non-resident General Hunting License (Item 105) | Nonresident | $315.00 | hunting |
| Non-resident Special 5-Day Small Game/Exotic Hunting (Item 157) | Nonresident | $48.00 | small game, exotics, javelina, game birds except turkey |
| Archery Hunting Endorsement (Item 135) | Any | $7.00 | archery deer season |
| Upland Game Bird Endorsement (Item 167) | Any | $7.00 | turkey, quail, pheasant, chachalaca |
| Texas Migratory Game Bird Endorsement (Item 168) | Any | $7.00 | dove, ducks, geese, other migratory birds |
| Federal Duck Stamp (Item 138) | Any | $25.00 | waterfowl |
All hunters in Texas must have a valid hunting license. This includes residents and non-residents. Special stamps or endorsements may be required for specific game, such as migratory birds or waterfowl. An Arts. 6.002, P.C. endorsement is required for all persons hunting alligator, unless accompanied by a licensed guide. 1
Hunter Education
Anyone born on or after September 2, 1971, must complete hunter education. This applies before hunting in Texas. A deferral option is available for first-time adult hunters.
Important Reminders
- Check Regulations Annually: Hunting regulations can change each year. Always refer to the current TPWD Outdoor Annual before your hunt.
- Public vs. Private Land: Most hunting in Texas occurs on private land. Secure landowner permission well in advance. Public hunting opportunities are available but often limited.
- Safety First: Practice safe firearm handling. Know your target and what is beyond it.
- Respect Wildlife: Follow bag limits. Adhere to ethical hunting practices.
Planning your Texas hunt requires attention to detail. Knowing the seasons and rules will ensure a legal and enjoyable experience. Check Texas season dates.
Last verified: September 5, 2026 — Official sourceMore Texas Hunting Resources
- Texas hunting regulations
- How to get a Texas hunting license
- Public and private land access in Texas
- Hunting locations in Texas
For reference only. This page summarizes agency publications and is not legal advice or an official source; confirm dates, limits and fees with the state wildlife agency before you hunt. Regulations change mid-season. Send a correction if you spot an error. Disclaimer.