Applications open for 2025-26 Texas drawn hunts
Hunters have new opportunities and scenery this fall through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s drawn hunt permits program. Applications are being accepted for a shot at nearly 9,600 permits in more than 60 high-quality hunt categories on public and private lands across the state during the 2025-26 season.
“It is an affordable way to get to hunt, but more importantly, the offerings in the public hunt draw system allow you to potentially hunt one end of Texas to the other for potentially every species Texas has to offer,” said Kelly Edmiston, TPWD public hunting coordinator, in a July 16 media release from the department. “From the Panhandle to South Texas, to the Trans-Pecos and the Pineywoods, you could be selected for a hunting spot at a state park, wildlife management area, national wildlife refuge or private property. Variety is the key and the opportunity is there.”
Hunts for white-tailed and mule deer, pronghorn, turkey, alligator, and dove, plus guided packages for exotic species and bighorn sheep, are all available through the Texas public drawn hunt system. During the 2024-25 season, more than 300,000 applications were submitted to the TPWD.
Application deadlines are the first and 15th of each month from Aug. 1 to Nov. 1. For example, applications for all alligator hunt categories and private land dove hunts are due Aug. 1, while deadlines for archery deer, archery mule deer, pronghorn, private land pronghorn, and javelina are due Aug. 15. Those due dates continue through the application period.
Application fees range from free to $3 to $10, depending on the hunt category. If selected, adult hunters might need to pay a special permit fee of $80 for regular hunts or $130 for extended hunts. Categories such as youth-only hunts and specified others do not require application or permit fees. Permits are open to residents and non-resident hunters alike.
To apply for e-Postcard hunts and U.S. Forest Service antlerless deer permits, applicants must have a current Annual Public Hunt Permit (APH). APH permits go on sale each year on Aug. 15. Last year, 59,605 APH permits were sold, generating around $2.8 million in revenue for wildlife conservation and public hunting opportunities.
The Drawn Hunt Catalog interactive map shows all drawn hunt opportunities by category or area. All applications, fee payments, and permit issuance are handled electronically. Applicants will need internet access, an email address, and a credit/debit card to participate. The most effective way to access the system is thought the customer ID number from the applicant’s hunting or fishing license.
Visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s drawn hunts website for a full list of category deadlines. Hunters can apply until 11:59 p.m. on the application deadline. Applicants can check their drawing status online at any time.
For more information or to start the application process, visit the TPWD drawn hunts website or contact hunt@tpwd.texas.gov or 512-389-4505.