Table of Contents
Discover everything you need to know about hunting in Virginia, including state hunting regulations, public and private land access, outfitter information, and expert tips for a successful hunting experience.
Virginia Hunting Regulations
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) provides a detailed Hunting & Trapping Digest that outlines the rules, bag limits, and season dates for all game species. Ensure you review the latest regulations before planning your hunt.
2025-2026 Virginia Hunting Seasons
Explore the ultimate guide to the 2025-2026 Virginia hunting seasons. Dates are based on projections from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) and may be subject to change. Visit the official DWR website for the latest updates and regulations.
Deer Hunting Seasons
- Early Archery (Statewide): October 4 – November 14, 2025
- Early Muzzleloader (West of Blue Ridge): November 1 – November 14, 2025
- Early Muzzleloader (East of Blue Ridge): November 8 – November 14, 2025
- General Firearms (West of Blue Ridge): November 15 – December 6, 2025
- General Firearms (East of Blue Ridge): November 15, 2025 – January 3, 2026
- Late Muzzleloader (Select Counties): December 7, 2025 – January 3, 2026
- Late Archery (Select Counties): December 7, 2025 – January 3, 2026
- Youth/Apprentice Weekend: October 11 – October 12, 2025
Elk Hunting Seasons
- General (Elk Management Zone): October 11 – October 17, 2025 (Draw permit required)
Bear Hunting Seasons
- Archery: October 4 – November 14, 2025
- Muzzleloader: November 8 – November 14, 2025
- General Firearms (West of Blue Ridge): November 24, 2025 – January 3, 2026
- General Firearms (East of Blue Ridge): December 1 – December 20, 2025
- Hound Hunting (East of Blue Ridge): December 21, 2025 – January 3, 2026
- Youth/Apprentice Weekend: October 11 – October 12, 2025
Turkey Hunting Seasons
- Fall (Select Counties): October 25 – November 6, 2025 & November 26 – December 9, 2025 & December 22, 2025 – January 24, 2026
- Spring: April 11 – May 16, 2026
- Spring Youth/Apprentice Weekend: April 4 – April 5, 2026
Small Game Seasons
- Squirrel (Gray/Red): September 6, 2025 – February 28, 2026
- Squirrel (Fox): September 6, 2025 – January 31, 2026
- Rabbit: November 1, 2025 – February 28, 2026
- Quail: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
- Grouse (Ruffed): October 25, 2025 – January 31, 2026
- Pheasant: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
Furbearer Seasons
- Bobcat (Archery): October 4 – October 31, 2025
- Bobcat (Firearms): November 1, 2025 – February 28, 2026
- Coyote (Statewide): Year-round
- Fox (Red, Firearms): November 1, 2025 – February 28, 2026
- Fox (Gray, Firearms): January 1 – February 28, 2026
- Raccoon/Opossum: November 1, 2025 – March 10, 2026
- Trapping (Various Species): November 15, 2025 – February 28, 2026
Migratory Bird Seasons
- Mourning Dove: September 1 – October 25, 2025 & November 15 – November 30, 2025 & December 26, 2025 – January 10, 2026
- Resident Canada Goose: September 1 – September 25, 2025
- Early Teal: September 13 – September 21, 2025
- Woodcock: November 15 – November 29, 2025 & December 13, 2025 – January 31, 2026
- Rails (Sora/Virginia): September 8 – November 16, 2025
- Duck: October 11 – October 14, 2025 & November 15 – November 30, 2025 & December 13, 2025 – January 31, 2026
- Canada Goose (Regular): November 15 – November 30, 2025 & December 13, 2025 – January 31, 2026
- Youth/Apprentice Waterfowl Days: February 7 – February 8, 2026
Note: Dates are projected based on DWR’s 2024-2025 Hunting & Trapping Digest and historical trends as of April 25, 2025. Seasons vary by region (east/west of Blue Ridge) and may require licenses, permits, or tags. Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) regulations prohibit deer scents with natural fluids and restrict carcass transport. Fluorescent orange is required during firearms seasons. Late waterfowl seasons are pending federal frameworks (Web ID: 2). Always verify exact dates, bag limits, and regulations on the DWR website or in the 2025-2026 Hunting & Trapping Digest.
[](https://dwr.virginia.gov/hunting/regulations/)[](https://dwr.virginia.gov/hunting/regulations/deer/)Public and Private Hunting Lands
Public Hunting Lands
Virginia offers diverse public hunting areas, including:
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): Over 40 WMAs managed by the DWR, including locations like Clinch Mountain and Rapidan WMAs.
- National Forests: The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests provide extensive hunting opportunities.
Use the DWR Wildlife Management Area Locator for detailed maps and access points.
Private Land Access Programs
The Access Program in Virginia connects hunters with private landowners who allow hunting on their property. Learn more about this program on the Virginia DWR website.
Hunting Licenses and Permits
Virginia hunters must purchase licenses and permits through the DWR licensing portal. Available options include:
- Resident and non-resident licenses
- Big game licenses for deer, turkey, and bear
- Special permits for certain WMAs
Outfitters and Hunting Guides
Virginia is home to several licensed hunting guides and outfitters specializing in deer, bear, and turkey hunts. Verify that your guide is certified through the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources for a safe and legal hunting experience.
Gear Recommendations for Virginia Hunts
Virginia’s varied landscapes require appropriate hunting gear:
- Clothing: Layered, weatherproof gear for changing conditions.
- Footwear: Insulated boots for colder climates and lightweight options for early-season hunts.
- Equipment: Tree stands for forested areas, and decoys or calls for waterfowl and turkey hunting.
Conservation and Ethical Hunting
Virginia hunters play a vital role in wildlife conservation. By purchasing licenses, hunters contribute directly to habitat management and species preservation. Follow ethical hunting practices and adhere to all state regulations to ensure the sustainability of hunting in Virginia.
Hunting Tips for Virginia
Here are some tips to make the most of your Virginia hunting experience:
- Scout WMAs and national forests early to secure the best locations.
- Learn regional game patterns, including feeding and migration habits.
- Plan hunts around weather conditions and seasonal patterns.
Start Planning Your Virginia Hunt Today
Virginia offers opportunities for hunters of all experience levels, from its abundant public lands to its robust conservation programs. Get started by reviewing regulations, purchasing your license, and planning your next adventure!
2024 Virginia Hunting Results
Virginia published its 2024 hunting results.