Goose hunting in Texas offers a unique opportunity thanks to the state’s location along the Central Flyway, a variety of wintering and migratory goose species, and a wide range of waterfowl habitat — from coastal marshes and rice fields to High Plains wetlands and river bottoms. If you’re headed to Texas this season, understanding the local regs, timing, and tactics can make or break your hunt.
✅ Texas Goose Hunting: Regulations & What You Need to Hunt
Before heading out, make sure you’re squared away with all legal requirements:
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You must have a valid Texas hunting license with the Migratory Game Bird endorsement, plus a federal duck (migratory bird) stamp if 16 or older. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service+2tpwd.texas.gov+2
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Also required: registration under the federal Harvest Information Program (HIP). tpwd.texas.gov+1
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Only legal waterfowl ammunition (non-toxic shot) may be used — lead shot remains prohibited. tpwd.texas.gov+1
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) Season Dates & Bag Limits
| Zone / Season Type | Dates (2025–2026) tpwd.texas.gov+2tpwd.texas.gov+2 |
|---|---|
| Early Canada Goose — East Zone | Sept 13–28 tpwd.texas.gov |
| Dark Geese — West Zone | Nov 1, 2025 – Feb 1, 2026 tpwd.texas.gov+1 |
| Dark Geese — East Zone | Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 25, 2026 tpwd.texas.gov |
| Light Geese — West Zone | Nov 1, 2025 – Feb 1, 2026 tpwd.texas.gov+1 |
| Light Geese — East Zone | Nov 1, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026 tpwd.texas.gov |
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Dark‑goose bag limit: 5 birds/day (no more than 2 white‑fronts in the daily bag). eRegulations+1
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Light‑goose bag limit: Typically 10 birds/day (aggregate) — check this year’s regulations for any recent changes. eRegulations+1
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Legal shooting hours: From ½ hour before sunrise to sunset. tpwd.texas.gov+1
