Daryl Dixon isn't gay in the comics. The storylines mainly revolve around his adventures and struggles in a post-apocalyptic world, not his sexual orientation.
In gay love stories, Daryl Dixon is often still portrayed as his tough - as - nails self. He's a survivor first, but his softer side comes out more when it comes to his male love interest. His loyalty, which was always a big part of his character, is intensified in a relationship. He'd be protective of his partner in the dangerous post - apocalyptic world.