Texas Hunting Seasons & Licensing: What You Need To Know (2024)

Are you interested in hunting in Texas? Whether you are a resident or a visitor, it is important to familiarize yourself with the hunting seasons and licensing requirements. In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the different hunting seasons and explain how to obtain a license.

We will also discuss the restrictions that apply to certain types of game. So, whether you are planning a hunting trip to Texas or just want to learn more about the process, read on for information on hunting seasons and licensing in Texas!

Hunting In Texas

Hunting in Texas is an experience unlike any other. The vastness of the state and the variety of game available make it a hunters paradise.

Whether you're after deer, hogs, birds, or varmints, there's a good chance you'll find what you're looking for in Texas. And with so much land to explore, you're sure to have a great time doing it.

Hunting opportunities abound throughout the Lone Star State and there are few places that can match its diversity in terms of hunting options. From the rolling hills and woodlands of East Texas to the desert plains of West Texas, there are many species that call Texas home and hunters from all over enjoy coming here to find them.

Of course, hunting isn't all about the animals. It's also about the camaraderie and the stories that are shared around the campfire at night. Hunting in Texas is an experience that you'll never forget.

Texas Deer Seasons

Archery	Jan. 17-30
Muzzleloader Only	Jan. 3-16
Youth Only	Oct. 30-31 and Jan. 3-16
General Season	North: Nov. 6-Jan. 2 South: Nov. 6-Jan.16
Special Late Season	North: Jan. 3-16 South: Jan. 17-30

Texas Alligator Seasons

General Season

Sept. 10-30**

**Season dates vary by zone. Check out the details on the Texas Parks and Wildlife before heading out on your hunt.

Texas Mule Deer Seasons

Archery	Oct. 2-Nov. 5
General Season	Nov. 20-Dec. 12**

**Season dates vary by zone. Visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for more details.

Texas Pronghorn Seasons

General Season

Oct. 2-17

Texas Wild Turkey Seasons

Fall General Season	Nov. 6-Feb. 27**
Fall Youth Only	North: Oct. 30-31 and Jan. 3-16 South: Oct. 30-31 and Jan. 17-30
Spring General Season	Apr. 2-May 15**
Spring Youth Only	North: Mar. 26-27 and May 21-22 South: Mar. 12-13 and May 7-8

**Season dates vary by zone. Visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for more details.

Texas Javelina Seasons

General Season

North: Oct. 1-Feb. 27
South: Sept. 1-Aug. 31

Texas Small Game Seasons

Woodcock	Dec. 18-Jan. 31
Teal	Sept. 11-26
Snipe	Nov. 6-Feb. 20
Squirrel	Sept. 1-May 31**
Rabbit and Hare	Open Season
Quail	Oct. 30-Feb. 27
Pheasant	Dec. 4-Jan. 2
Chachalaca	Oct. 30-Feb. 27

How To Get A Hunting License In Texas?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

Complete the Texas hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct license type.
Buy the license through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or a Texas-approved agent.

Texas License Expiration

Hunting licenses are good from Aug. 15 through Aug. 31 of the next year. Texas residents are able to purchase a lifetime hunting license.

Where to Buy a Texas Hunting License

Visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.
Call 1-800-TX-LIC-4-U (1-800-895-4248).
Visit a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department office or an approved license agent.

If you are interested in hunting in Texas, it is important to familiarize yourself with the regulations and licensing requirements. The information on this website should help get you started. Be sure to consult with a local wildlife authority before hunting so that you can be sure to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Have fun and good luck in the field!

***Seasonal dates differ by zone. For more information, go to the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.

Bag limits, special seasons, and hunting rules vary by animal and season in Texas hunting seasons. Visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for more information on obtaining licenses, permits, and restrictions.