Archery Only Seasons Open September 27 — What Lubbock Hunters Need to Know

Archery hunters, it’s time to dust off your gear! The archery-only seasons for deer and wild turkey are kicking off September 27th, 2025, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department expects excellent hunts this year. With expanded opportunities, updated regulations, and new tools in place, this season could deliver some memorable whitetails (and toms) for hunters in Lubbock County and across the state.

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Here are the key dates for the archery-only seasons:

• Wild Turkey & White-tailed Deer: Sept. 27th – Oct. 31st, 2025 for Lubbock (North Zone).

• Mule Deer: In the Panhandle region, archery runs Sept. 27th – Nov. 21st; in other regions, it runs until Nov. 27th.

New Rules & Openings to Know

This year brings a few changes that could impact your hunt:

• Wild turkey hunting has opened in Lubbock County under North Zone regulations. Bag limit: Four turkeys (either sex) during fall and spring seasons.

• Digital licenses & tags are fully live. You can purchase and display your licenses online, making it easier than ever to keep legal paperwork in order.

• Archery mule deer season has been extended in key regions including the Panhandle. More days to chase big bucks with the bow.

READ MORE: New Texas Hunting & Fishing Rules Every Lubbock Outdoorsman Needs to Know

What You Must Legally Carry & Do in the Field

Don’t overlook these essentials — they’re required for archery hunting in Lubbock County:

• Valid hunter education certification

• Archery endorsement on your hunting license

• Proper license(s) for game type and zone

For wild turkey:

• You must report harvests within 24 hours, using the Texas Hunt & Fish app or online.

• Tag properly as required.

For deer:

• Proper tagging rules apply. Be aware of current Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) info and follow carcass disposal requirements.

Bowhunting Tips & Sighting Your Equipment

For those using single-pin bow sights, ground blinds, or tree stands: pre-measure your sweet spots (distances) and practice until you land three arrows in a tight group. Check your gear—pins, sight mounts, any hardware can loosen with frequent use. A little prep helps avoid frustration when the animal shows up.

Watch Out for the Screwworm

An important update: TPWD is urging all hunters and landowners to stay alert for New World Screwworm infestations. If you spot a live animal with maggots or signs of infestation, report it immediately to your local TPWD biologist. Hunters are being asked to participate in surveillance efforts to protect wildlife and livestock.

READ MORE: Flesh-Eating Screw Worm Flies Headed Our Way: Texas Gears Up for Battle!

Final Thoughts

If you’re heading out this archery season, get ready—dates have been extended, new zones are open (including Lubbock for turkey), digital licenses make compliance easier, and public lands plus youth seasons give more chances. Do your homework: follow tagging rules, report harvests, stay safe, respect regulations, and maybe you’ll find that trophy buck or perfect tom this fall.

Hunters across West Texas are watching — since these changes help create better opportunity and protection for animals, hunters, and traditions alike. Let the season begin!