There’s nothing quite like the sound of whistling wings on a warm September afternoon to get a hunter’s heart pumping! If you’re ready to kick off the fall hunting calendar in the Lone Star State, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for the 2025-2026 migratory bird period, from zone-specific dates to license requirements and pro tips. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or trying wing-shooting for the first time, we’ve got you covered!
🗓️ Quick Overview: 2025-2026 Season at a Glance
Texas offers some of the most extended and diverse hunting opportunities in the country, with three distinct zones. Here’s the snapshot:
| Species | North Zone | Central Zone | South Zone | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning & White-winged | Sept 1 – Nov 13, Dec 20 – Jan 4 | Sept 1 – Oct 29, Dec 20 – Jan 14 | Sept 14 – Nov 12, Dec 20 – Jan 23 | 15 |
| White-winged Special | Sept 2-4, Sept 9-11 (noon-sunset) | Sept 2-4, Sept 9-11 (noon-sunset) | Sept 2-4, Sept 9-11 (noon-sunset) | 15 |
Always verify with Texas Parks & Wildlife before heading out.
🕊️ Complete Season Breakdown: Zones & Dates
North Zone Adventures
- Regular Period: September 1 – November 13, 2025; December 20, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Special White-winged Days: September 2-4 & 9-11, 2025 (noon to sunset only)
- Prime Locations: Areas north of I-20 and I-30, including the Panhandle and Rolling Plains
Central Zone Action
- Regular Period: September 1 – October 29, 2025; December 20, 2025 – January 14, 2026
- Special White-winged Days: September 2-4 & 9-11, 2025 (noon to sunset only)
- Hotspots: The heart of Texas, including the Hill Country and South Texas plains
South Zone Opportunities
- Regular Period: September 14 – November 12, 2025; December 20, 2025 – January 23, 2026
- Special White-winged Days: September 2-4 & 9-11, 2025 (noon to sunset only)
- Best Bets: The Lower Rio Grande Valley and coastal areas
Eurasian Collared-Doves
- Season: Open year-round statewide
- Bag Limit: No limit – perfect for off-season practice!
- Note: These non-native birds provide great shooting opportunities even when other seasons are closed
🌾 Complementary Game Species
While you’re out in the field, keep an eye out for these other opportunities that often share the same habitats:
White-tipped Doves
- Availability: Only in specified southern counties (Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Willacy)
- Season: Same as mourning dove dates in South Zone
- Included in the aggregate 15-bird daily limit
Common Snipe
- Season Dates: October 29, 2025 – February 12, 2026
- Daily Limit: 8 birds
- Perfect For: Hunters who enjoy challenging shots in wetland areas
Bobwhite Quail
- Season Dates: October 29, 2025 – February 26, 2026
- Daily Limit: 15 birds
- Great Option: For those looking to extend their field time after the main flights conclude
📜 Essential Regulations to Remember
Playing by the rules ensures everyone can enjoy hunting for generations to come:
- Shooting Hours: ½ hour before sunrise to sunset (except special white-winged days: noon to sunset)
- License Requirements: All hunters need valid Texas hunting license + HIP certification
- Firearm Restrictions: Shotguns only, plugged to hold no more than 3 shells total
- Baiting Rules: Strictly prohibited – know the difference between natural forage and illegal baiting
- Retrieval Ethics: Make every reasonable effort to retrieve all downed birds
- Transportation: No specific tagging requirements for transporting your harvest
🎟️ Licensing & Fee Structure for 2025-2026
Here’s what you’ll need to invest for your Texas hunting adventure:
| License Type | Resident Cost | Non-Resident Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Super Combo License (all-inclusive) | $68 | N/A |
| Resident Hunting License | $25 | N/A |
| Non-Resident Hunting License | N/A | $315 |
| Non-Resident 5-Day Special | N/A | $48 |
| HIP Certification | Free | Free |
Youth and senior discounts available – check TPWD website for details
✅ Who Needs What License?
- Texas Residents: Hunting license + HIP certification
- Non-Residents: Non-resident hunting license + HIP certification
- Youth Hunters (Under 17): Resident youth license ($7) or non-resident youth license ($130)
- Seniors (65+): Reduced fee Super Combo license ($32)
- Landowners: License exempt on their own property but still need HIP certification
- All hunters born after September 2, 1971 must complete hunter education or obtain a deferral
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🕒 What’s special about the September white-winged weekends?
These traditional opening weekends (Sept 2-4 & 9-11, 2025) allow hunting from noon to sunset only, focusing on the afternoon flights when these birds are most active.
🌽 How can I identify legal hunting areas?
Stick to natural food sources like harvested grain fields. Remember: hunting over baited areas is illegal and carries serious penalties.
🏞️ Where can I find public hunting opportunities?
Texas offers over 1 million acres through the Public Hunting Program. Annual permits are $48 and provide access to wildlife management areas across the state.
👕 Do I need to wear blaze orange?
Not required for migratory bird hunting, but wearing an orange cap or vest when moving between locations is always a smart safety practice.
🐕 Are retrievers helpful for dove hunting?
Absolutely! Well-trained dogs are excellent for finding downed birds in tall vegetation. Just remember to bring plenty of water for your canine companion.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Make Your Season Memorable
Texas truly offers some of the finest wing-shooting opportunities in North America. With multiple zones, extended dates, and diverse species, there’s something for every hunter. Get your licenses early, scout your locations, respect property boundaries, and most importantly – savor the time spent in the field with friends and family. Here’s to safe shooting and successful hunts!
⚠️ This guide provides general information for the 2025-2026 season but regulations can change. Always consult the official Texas Parks & Wildlife Department website for the most current rules, dates, and requirements before your hunt.
