Big game

Mule deer

A bigger-eared western deer.

Found in the drier western parts of the state, with shorter, region-specific seasons.

Where

The Panhandle and the Trans-Pecos (far West Texas).

2 mule deer per year, no more than 1 buck. Taking an antlerless mule deer usually needs a special permit.

General - Panhandle Nov. 21 - Dec. 6, 2026
General - Trans-Pecos Nov. 27 - Dec. 13, 2026
Archery - Panhandle / Trans-Pecos Oct. 3 - Nov. 20, 2026 / Oct. 3 - Nov. 26, 2026

Hunting license. Non-residents need the General Hunting License for mule deer.

Seasons and antlerless permits vary by county — check the county listing before you go.

Source to confirm: TPWD Mule Deer / Seasons by County

More big game

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Texas has more whitetail than any other state, and your county usually sets the real rules.

Where: All over the state.

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A wide-open-country hunt managed by permit, in a limited set of western counties.

Where: The Panhandle and far West Texas — 41 of 254 counties.

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Common in the southern and western brush, with generous seasons.

Where: South and West Texas.

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One of the hardest tags to get in Texas — awarded by drawing only.

Where: The mountains of far West Texas.

Official sources

Hunting rules for mule deer come from Texas Parks & Wildlife. Confirm the season, limits, and your county's rules before you hunt.

Caution: Seasons, limits, and open counties change every year. The official TPWD pages are the final word.

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