Archery-only seasons for white-tailed deer, mule deer and turkey open Saturday, Sept. 29 and run through Friday, Nov. 2. Refer to the Outdoor Annual for necessary information about the types of archery and crossbow equipment allowed for taking game, as well as other bowhunting regulations.
Prospects for white-tailed deer are expected to remain good across the state. If you're looking for a change in your hunting grounds, there are over 1 million acres of public hunting lands available in Texas. All you need for access is an Annual Public Hunting Permit ($48).
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If you plan to hunt mule deer in Briscoe, Childress, Cottle, Floyd, Hall or Motley counties, there is a new experimental antler regulation. The outside spread of the main beams of a harvested mule deer must be at least 20 inches. Click on the graphic for details on how to field judge bucks.
The goal is to protect young bucks, and this decision was based on years of harvest data. Refer to our press release for more information.
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It's time for the thrill and challenge that only bowhunting brings. If you plan to participate in any archery-only seasons, carry the following into the field:
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Hunter Education Certification – keep the proof in your pocket
- Hunting license with Archery endorsement
- For turkey hunters: Upland Game Bird endorsement
Be aware that arrow guns are prohibited for use during archery-only seasons.
If you can’t find your Hunter Ed. card, print a free copy online. Hunter Ed. is required for everyone born after Sept. 1, 1971.
Get your license and endorsements online, at retailers or by phone: 800-895-4248.
Mule deer and white-tailed deer hunters should review Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) regulations. Hunters in the South Central, Panhandle and Trans-Pecos CWD Zones must take their deer to CWD check stations within 48 hours of harvest.
Even if you hunt outside these zones, consider submitting your harvest for CWD sampling to help keep this disease at bay.
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If you're new to bowhunting or want to improve your skills, try a Bowhunter Education course. It’s available to anyone 12 years of age or older and covers:
- mastering new archery techniques
- anatomy and behavior of game
- scouting, tracking and recovering game
- developing stealth, perseverance, patience and effort
With a little prevention, you won't blow your cover because of a squeaky treestand. Before your hunt, hang up the treestand and check it for needed repairs and squeaks.
The #1 cause of hunter incidents in the U.S. is due to falls from tree stands. So take a minute to review this video on tree stand safety. Don’t become a statistic, choose safety first.
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