West Virginia, USA: Hunting Seasons and Periods, Openings and Closings, Licenses, Rules, Tips for Choosing the Right Time and Location

Hunting in the state of West Virginia is not just a way to spend time in nature — it’s a strictly regulated activity that requires knowledge of rules, seasons, and regional specifics. Every year, thousands of hunters head into the forests and mountains of this picturesque state in search of game, always observing established norms and respecting wildlife. To ensure your hunting trip is both successful and legal, it's important to understand how hunting seasons are regulated, what restrictions apply, and how to choose the right time and location. How Hunting Seasons Are Regulated in West Virginia Hunting regulations in West Virginia are set by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) . The main hunting seasons are divided by species: white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, feral hog, waterfowl, and small game. Typically, the hunting year begins with the deer season in September and ends in March of the following year when limited hunting for certain birds is allowed. The start and end dates of each season depend on climatic conditions, population levels, and scientific recommendations. For example, autumn seasons often coincide with leaf fall, when animals are most active. Terrain also plays a role — mountainous areas may see earlier winter hunting due to colder temperatures. Compared to neighboring states like Pennsylvania or Virginia, West Virginia usually opens its turkey season earlier, making it attractive to hunting tourists. Over the past decade, there has been a gradual extension of the feral hog hunting season due to increasing population numbers. Seasonality of Hunting in West Virginia, USA West Virginia offers several key hunting seasons: Fall Hunting : September–November – Ideal for white-tailed deer, especially during the rutting period in October–November. Winter Hunting : December–February – Suitable for bear and some bird species. Spring Hunting : March–May – Open season for waterfowl and turkeys. Summer Hunting : June–August – Limited hunting for migratory birds. Large game such as deer and bears are most active during early morning and evening hours in cooler seasons. Small game, including pheasants and doves, is available for much of the year but is best hunted in the fall. Peak animal activity occurs during pre-dawn and twilight hours, especially during mating periods. Many areas of the state host hunting festivals, such as the annual "Deer Camp Festival" in Greenbrier County, where participants can join tournaments, exhibitions, and seminars. Hunting Restrictions and Bans, What You Can’t Do To preserve ecosystem balance, strict limits are enforced in West Virginia. For example, shooting female deer is prohibited during certain periods to protect breeding populations. Some counties have additional restrictions on harvesting young animals. Protected species include the moose (very rare in the state), cougar (unconfirmed), and certain bird species such as golden eagles and owls. Shooting these animals is strictly forbidden. There are also temporary bans — for instance, turkey hunting is prohibited in May during their breeding season. Most large game hunting is completely closed during summer months, except under special permits. How to Obtain a Hunting License in West Virginia To legally hunt in West Virginia, you must obtain the appropriate license. A basic hunting license is available to residents and non-residents, costing between $17 and $105 depending on type and validity period. Youth under 15 can get a free apprentice permit. Licenses can be obtained online via the WV DNR website or at authorized retail stores. Special licenses are also available for specific species, such as deer or bear. Many hunters work with local clubs, such as the West Virginia Hunters Association , which offer training, organize tours, and assist with obtaining permits. Membership in such organizations may provide additional benefits, including access to private lands and information about top hunting spots. Consequences of Violating Hunting Regulations Violating hunting rules can result in fines based on the severity of the offense. For example, hunting without a license costs between $100 and $500, while illegally shooting protected species can result in fines over $1,000 and even up to one year in jail. Additionally, hunting rule violations may lead to the loss of your license for one to five years. DNR officers conduct regular patrols, especially during peak seasons, so it's essential to follow all regulations. Tips for Choosing the Right Time, Location, and Gear Choosing the right time and place is crucial for hunting success. Early morning and evening hours are best when animals are most active. Windy days are ideal for deer hunting, as they reduce the animal's hearing sensitivity, giving you an advantage. Choose locations near trails or water sources. Mountainous terrain requires good physical condition and lightweight gear. Use camouflage suited to the local flora — mixed forest dominates the region, so autumn or winter colors are recommended. Hunting tactics vary by season: use calls in autumn to attract deer, and in spring for turkeys. For bears, baiting and elevated stands are effective. Always check weather forecasts before departure and carry a map of the area.