New hunting season: digital licenses, new dates, rule updates

The 2025-26 hunting season has opened with a strong start to dove season, but hunters should note several changes before heading into the field.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is introducing fully digital license options for all recreational hunting, fishing and combo license types this year. A how-to video on the TPWD website explains how to access the new digital licenses.

Non-resident hunters will see simplified options following legislation passed this spring. Those seeking to hunt any legal bird or game animal, including alligator, wild turkey, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mule deer and white-tailed deer, must purchase a Non-resident General Hunting license.