Texas’ archery-only hunting season for white-tailed deer opens Sept. 27 with an expected bounty of bucks. The bachelors should be gathering in groups right about now before the rut begins in October, according to a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department media release. The general season begins Nov. 1.
Antler development was boosted by late spring rainfall, despite the state’s growing season beginning in March under drought conditions. The vegetative growth also helped does pack on reserves for fawning and lactation.
“Historically good fawn recruitment over the last several years will provide archery hunters plenty of opportunities to bag a quality buck,” said Blaise Korzekwa, leader of the TPWD’s White-tailed Deer Program.
Forbs (weeds and flowering plants), which are a critical component of a deer’s diet, bloomed aplenty in the late spring and offered essential nutrients to deer in many regions of the state. However, hunters in portions of the Edwards Plateau and South Texas ecoregions might see average to below-average antlers on bucks during the 2025 season, as those areas didn’t receive rainfall until the summer.
SEASONS
Texas’ archery-only season runs Sept. 27-Oct. 31, 2025. The 2025-26 general season is Nov. 1-Jan. 4 in the North Zone and Nov. 1-Jan. 18 in the South Zone. A youth-only deer season is Oct. 24-26 and Jan. 5-18 in both zones.
Find additional hunting dates, bag limits, harvesting rules, and more in the 2025-26 Outdoor Annual.
ARCHERY REGULATIONS
Archery hunters in Texas are required to purchase an Archery Endorsement in addition to their hunting license. Hunters taking advantage of Texas Public Hunting Lands must have the Annual Public Hunting Permit. Public land hunters also should consult the Public Hunting Lands Map Booklet to review regulations that might apply to specific areas. The Texas Hunt & Fish app can be used to complete on-site registration electronically at a public hunting area.
Those interested in learning more about archery and bowhunting, or anyone who wants to brush up on their skills ahead of the season, are encouraged to explore Bowhunter by Fall, a newsletter series presented by the TPWD’s Community Archery Program.
PESTS AND DISEASE
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is asking hunters to continue surveillance for New World screwworm. If hunters or landowners observe a live animal infested with maggots, they should quickly report it to a local TPWD biologist. Through active surveillance, hunters can help protect the state from a pest that could have devastating impacts on livestock and wildlife. For more information, visit TPWD’s New World Screwworm webpage.
Landowners and hunters also play a critical role in managing Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). The most effective way to do that is by reporting sick deer, properly disposing of unused carcass parts, and voluntarily testing harvests. More information about carcass disposal requirements and voluntary CWD check station dates and hours of operations can be found on the TPWD’s CWD website.
