Welcome, archery enthusiasts. At Texas Archery, our mission is to equip you with the confidence, skills, and gear needed to succeed—whether you’re stepping onto the range for the first time or heading deep into West Texas for mule deer. This year, mule deer archery season has been expanded in both the Panhandle and Trans-Pecos regions, offering more opportunity than ever before to land the hunt of a lifetime.
Explore our curated gear and collections at Texas Archery Collections as you prepare to make every draw count.
1. Mule Deer Archery Season—Now Longer than Ever
What’s Changed This Year
Thanks to new rules effective September 1, 2025, TPWD has extended the archery-only mule deer season in both key regions:
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Panhandle: extended to 56 consecutive days
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Trans-Pecos: now 62 consecutive days
These expansions significantly lengthen the opportunity for archers to engage with the season before the general gun seasons begin Houston Chronicle.
Official Season Dates (2025–2026)
According to TPWD’s Outdoor Annual, the official archery season dates are:
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Panhandle: September 27 – November 21, 2025 Texas Parks and Wildlife+1
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Trans-Pecos: September 27 – November 27, 2025 Texas Parks and Wildlife+1
These clearly reflect the extended lengths:
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56 days in the Panhandle (Sep 27–Nov 21)
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62 days in the Trans-Pecos (Sep 27–Nov 27)
2. Implications for Archery Hunters
More Time, More Opportunity
These extended seasons mean fewer conflicts with general firearm seasons and provide increased flexibility for hunters to choose ideal hunting windows based on personal schedules, weather, or deer activity.
Biologically Sound Decision
TPWD’s experts believe these expansions will not negatively affect mule deer populations, ensuring sustainability while boosting hunter opportunity Houston Chronicle.
Emphasizing Regional Differences
The Trans-Pecos region, known for its rugged terrain and lower mule deer densities, now offers a season that goes six days beyond the Panhandle—critical for successful migrant and rut-focused hunting. The Panhandle’s expanded window accommodates increased hunter interest and agricultural crop access areas.
3. How Texas Archery Equips You for Success
At Texas Archery, we stand ready to support your mule deer archery journey every step of the way.
Premium Gear & Curated Collections
Explore our gear via Texas Archery Collections. We offer top-tier bows, arrows, sights, and accessories—vetted by experts—for:
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Maximum accuracy in the field
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Quiet, reliable gear optimized for high-desert or plains environments
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Durable, weather-resistant materials to withstand the changing conditions of mule deer country
Instruction & Training
Our Private Lessons and Archery Programs cover:
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Fine-tuning shooting fundamentals
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Consistency under stress—perfect when the mule deer steps into view
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Techniques for long-range accuracy, shot placement, and wind reading
Range Time & Guided Support
Indoor ranges let you practice beyond conventional distances. Combine that with staff coaching to hone your form and confidence before the big hunt.
Community & Events
Join group clinics or events—great for building camaraderie and learning from seasoned mule deer archers sharing strategies on scouting, wind, stand placement, and more.
4. Strategic Timeline & Preparation
Here’s how we recommend structuring your preparation for the expanded season:
| Timeline | Action Item |
|---|---|
| Now (Before Season) | Visit Texas Archery shop; book lessons & range time |
| Late Summer | Start a training plan to build consistency & strength |
| Early Fall (Sept 1–26) | Final equipment checks, guided coaching, practice under match conditions |
| Season Start (Sept 27+) | Hit the field ready, confident, precise |
| Mid-season (Oct–Early Nov) | Refine your strategy based on observations, fine-tune adjustments |
| Close of Season | Transition to general season preparations or post-season planning |
5. What Hunters Can Expect
Dusk & Dawn Rut Hunts
Mule deer are most active early and late in the day. Extended season windows allow multiple tight dusk/dawn setups, maximizing prime-rut action.
Weather Adaptation
From the high plains to semi-arid Trans-Pecos, extended season windows let hunters choose optimal weather periods—early season highs or later-season cool fronts—boosting your chances.
Less Pressure, More Payoff
With archery-only periods wrapping before general seasons, hunters face less competition and quieter land, giving them a critical edge over the first few crucial hunting weeks.
6. A Reminder from Texas Archery
We’re more than a shop—we’re your partners in archery success. Whether you’re dialing in your release, upgrading your cam system, or practicing 60-yard shots, we’ve got your back so that when mule deer season arrives, you’re at the top of your game.
Explore lessons, ranges, and more on our Home page: Texas Archery. Visit our collections page for the latest curated gear: Texas Archery Collections.
In Summary
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Archery mule deer seasons in 2025 are extended to Sept 27–Nov 21 (Panhandle) and Sept 27–Nov 27 (Trans-Pecos) Texas Parks and Wildlife+1Houston Chronicle.
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TPWD expanded seasons aim to increase opportunity without compromising deer populations Houston Chronicle.
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At Texas Archery, you’ll find the gear, training, and expert support to make this extended season your most successful yet.
Best of luck out there—and we’ll see you on the range and in the field!
Author’s Note: Texas Archery is not affiliated with Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. Always consult local TPWD regulations for final dates and licensing details. This content is for informational and motivational purposes—hunting responsibly and legally is a shared top priority.
