The Guide to the Texas Hunting Seasons 2026

In addition to these big game opportunities, Texas is an excellent hunting ground for whitetail deer, turkey, and even javelina. 

So, whether you live in the Lone Star State or you’re planning a hunting trip there this year, you’ll need to know the open season dates and bag limits for the game you’re after. 

We’ve pulled this information together for you! Keep reading to learn what hunters need to know about Texas hunting seasons.

Updated April 1, 2026. 

When Can I Hunt in Texas?

Before you head out or even plan your hunt, make sure you know the open season dates and regulations.   

Below, we’ve included the latest Texas hunting information to help you plan—but be aware that information can change. Make sure you check state websites for hunting in Texas to confirm the latest details as you plan your hunting adventures.  

For more details about these species (and others), including bag limits and season dates, visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife website. You can also visit the eRegulations pages for hunting in Texas.

What Are the Bag Limits for the Texas Hunting Seasons?

How many mule deer, javelina, or ducks can you bring home this season? To comply with hunting regulations in Texas, follow the bag limits for everything you hunt throughout the year. 

For more specifics about bag limits, check out the Hunting, Fishing, & Boating Regulations from Texas Parks & Wildlife. 

What Do I Need to Know About Texas Hunting Regulations and Licenses?

All hunters in Texas need a hunting license. Licenses are valid from the date you purchase them through August 31 of the following year. Depending on what and how you hunt, you may also need specific endorsements. 

Purchase a license online or from an official retailer in person. Hunters have options ranging from resident and non-resident annual licenses to lifetime and combo hunting and fishing licenses. 

Why Do Hunters Hunt in Texas?

As we mentioned, it’s an excellent place to check a pronghorn off your game list. It’s also one of the only states that allow javelina hunting.

You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for whitetail and mule deer hunting, and it’s a big state (as everything is in Texas) for hunting multiple species of squirrels. The desert areas of the state also allow hunting for bighorn sheep. 

Where Should I Hunt?

Again, as everything is bigger in Texas, so is the variety of terrain. Depending on what and where you hunt, you’ll run into valleys, canyons, plains, and plateaus. There’s also plenty of water—including big lakes—and woods. 

Texas offers plenty of public and private land for hunting. With many areas to explore and scout, you’ll need to fine-tune the locations best suited for finding the game you’re after. Whether you’ve hunted in Texas before or you’re planning your first trip, HuntWise can help you gain an advantage over the land, game, and other hunters. 

What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?

Texas requires all hunters born on or after September 2, 1971, to take a hunter education course. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule, including an option to defer a hunting education course in some cases if accompanied by a licensed hunter.  

Hunters also need the right gear (like a great deer call or two) to hunt successfully in Texas. As a HuntWise subscriber, you gain access to discounts on gear from our partners with the potential to save hundreds on gear like hunting knives, binoculars, calls, clothing, scopes, and more. 

Use HuntWise for Texas Hunting Success This Season

We just shared a lot of information, and we hope it’s helpful as you plan your hunting seasons this year.

You’ll also want to make sure you have the ultimate hunting tool before heading out for your first hunt of the year. With HuntWise, you have an advantage over other hunters while improving your chances of tagging out—no matter the type of game you hunt. 

Download the HuntWise app for immediate access to current information on hunting in Texas, including regulations, season dates, and bag limits. The app also gives you access to real-time animal behavior predictors, ideal wind and weather, map layers (including Wildlife Management Areas, State Park areas, and Dove and Small Game Leased areas for Texas), private landowner boundaries and contact information, and more. 

If you haven’t hunted with HuntWise yet, this is your year! Download the app and enjoy access to explore—free for your first week!

Content and season dates reviewed and updated April 1, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have answers to your questions about the Texas hunting seasons!

Q: What animals can I hunt year-round in Texas?

A: In Texas, certain non-game and invasive species can typically be hunted year-round with no closed season. These include feral hogs (wild pigs), coyotes, and some exotic species. Feral hogs, in particular, are open year-round due to the damage they cause to land and crops. Always check current regulations from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department before heading out.

Q: What is the hardest animal to hunt in Texas?

A: Many hunters consider desert bighorn sheep the toughest animal to hunt in Texas. Desert bighorn sheep live in rugged West Texas terrain, tags are extremely limited, and the hunts are physically demanding. Among more commonly hunted species, mature white-tailed deer can also be very challenging due to their sharp senses and hunting pressure.

Q: Can I hunt deer on my own property in Texas without a license?

A: No, you can't hunt deer on your property in Texas without a license. Even on your own land, you generally need a valid Texas hunting license to hunt white-tailed deer. Texas law requires licensing unless you fall under a very specific exemption (such as certain depredation situations).

Q: What animals can you not hunt in Texas?

A: In Texas, you cannot hunt federally protected species such as the Bald eagle. Many nongame birds, endangered species, and certain migratory birds are also protected. Some animals may only be hunted during specific seasons or not at all, depending on their conservation status.

Q: What is the biggest predator in Texas?

A: The largest native predator currently roaming Texas is the mountain lion (also called a cougar or puma). They’re mostly found in West and South Texas. Historically, the American black bear was present as well, and occasional individuals still appear.

Q: Can game wardens come on private property in Texas?

A: Yes, game wardens from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department have the authority to enter private property to enforce hunting and wildlife laws. They can inspect licenses, game, and equipment, though they still must follow legal standards regarding searches of homes.