White-tailed deer hunting may be the most sought after big game animal in Texas, but whitetail are not the only deer living in the state. Mule deer cover much of the Trans-Pecos as well as the Texas Panhandle, where mule deer hunting seasons currently exists. However, conservative regulations have allowed mule deer to reclaim some of their historical range and that may allow additional recreational opportunities. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is now looking at increasing mule deer hunting in a couple of Texas counties.
“TPWD is recommending an open general season for mule deer in Dawson and Wheeler counties, and adding a day to the season across the Trans Pecos region. Department staff presented the proposals to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission Regulations Committee. The proposals address a priority goal in TPWD’s Land and Water Resource Conservation and Recreation Plan to increase access to and participation in the outdoors.
Currently there is no open season for mule deer in Dawson or Wheeler counties. Implementing a nine-day, buck-only season in Dawson County and a 16-day, buck-only season in Wheeler County would offer increased hunter opportunity without adversely impacting mule deer reproduction or distribution. Continue reading More Mule Deer Hunting in Texas?