TPWD expects strong population for white-tailed deer archery season

AUSTIN, Texas (KETK) – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department said that their biologists are expecting a strong white-tailed deer population for this year’s archery-only season.

“Given that over half the state experienced excellent habitat conditions this spring, it will be another great season to pull the bow out and spend time hunting,” said Blaise Korzekwa, TPWD white-tailed deer program leader. “Whether you’re looking to fill the freezer with venison or harvest the trophy of a lifetime, it will be time well spent in the field this year.”

According to a TPWD press release, the exceptional rainfall that much of the state got this spring led to excellent conditions with weeds and flowering plants providing abundant food for deer to graze on.

This year’s archery-only season and the Managed Lands Deer Program both start on Sept. 28 ahead of the normal season which starts on Nov. 2.

The TPWD is reminding hunters to help them stop the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease by knowing the nearby CWD zones , reporting sick deer, properly disposing of carcass parts and voluntarily testing their harvests.

“Landowners and hunters play a critical role in managing Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). Before heading to the field, hunters are reminded that several new CWD zones are in place for the 2024-25 season, and some have transitioned to voluntary sampling. New carcass disposal requirements are also in place this license year, so Texas hunters harvesting white-tailed deer and mule deer must comply with carcass disposal requirements when transporting the carcass away from the property of harvest.”

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

They’re also reminding Texans that any archers going hunting must have their Archery Endorsement , their hunting license and an Annual Public Hunting Permit if they’re hunting on Texas Public Hunting Lands .

To learn more about the different deer seasons, reporting a deer harvest, or your daily bag limits, visit the TPWD’s 2024-25 Outdoor Annual online .

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