West Virginia Hunting Season

West Virginia Hunting

Planning your hunt starts with knowing the season dates. Below are the general hunting season dates for West Virginia (always verify with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for updates):

  • Deer Hunting: Typically runs from late September to late December, with variations for archery, muzzleloader, and gun seasons.
  • Turkey Hunting: Spring season runs from mid-April to mid-May, and fall season varies by zone.
  • Small Game Hunting: Seasons for species like squirrel and rabbit generally run from early October to late February.
  • Waterfowl Hunting: Generally aligns with federal frameworks, running from late October to late January.
  • Upland Bird Hunting: Seasons for quail and grouse vary, typically running from November to February.

For exact dates and zone-specific information, visit the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website.

West Virginia 2025 Turkey Hunting Season Dates and Regulations

Below are the 2025 turkey hunting season dates and key regulations for West Virginia, sourced from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR). These are based on current data as of March 10, 2025, with fall dates projected from prior seasons. For final details, visit wvdnr.gov/hunting-seasons.

Spring Turkey Season

  • Youth Season (Ages 8-17): April 19–20, 2025
    • Eligible youth hunters with a license; Class Q/XS excluded.
    • Hours: ½ hour before sunrise to 1 p.m.
    • Bag Limit: 1 bearded turkey (counts toward season limit).
  • Regular Season: April 21–May 25, 2025
    • Hours: ½ hour before sunrise to 1 p.m.
    • Bag Limit: 1 bearded turkey per day, 2 total for the season.

Fall Turkey Season

Dates vary by county. One bird of either sex per season.

  • All Counties: October 11–19, 2025
  • Additional Week (15 Counties): October 27–November 2, 2025
    • Counties: Brooke, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Marion, Marshall, Mason, Monongalia, Ohio, Pleasants, Preston, Putnam, Taylor, Tyler, Wood.
  • Additional Three Weeks (14 Counties): October 27–November 16, 2025
    • Counties: Berkeley, Grant, Greenbrier, Hampshire, Hardy, Mineral, Monroe, Morgan, Nicholas, Pendleton, Pocahontas, Randolph, Tucker, Webster.
  • Hours: ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset

General Regulations

  • Licenses Required: Hunting license (ages 15+); resident landowners exempt.
  • License Costs:
    • Resident Base License: $19
    • Nonresident Base License: $119
    • Conservation Stamp (CS): $5 (resident), $13 (nonresident)
    • Big Game Stamp (BG): $10 (resident), $30 (nonresident)
  • Where to Buy: Online at wvhunt.com, license agents, or WVDNR offices.
  • Allowed Weapons: Shotguns, rifles, air rifles (.22 caliber+), handguns, muzzleloaders, bows, crossbows (bolts/arrows ¾-inch wide+).
  • Prohibited: Electronic calls, bait; dogs in spring (allowed in fall).
  • Tagging: Attach field tag (name, address, license #, date, time, county) immediately; electronically register within 72 hours of kill or 24 hours of season close with 13-digit confirmation number.
  • Survey: Optional Spring Gobbler Survey via Survey123 app or paper form.

Note: Fall dates are projected from 2024-2025 patterns (shifted one week earlier due to calendar). Confirm with the official WVDNR Regulations Summary closer to 2025.

West Virginia Hunting Rules and Regulations

Before heading out, familiarize yourself with West Virginia’s hunting rules and regulations to ensure a safe and legal hunt:

  • All hunters must possess a valid West Virginia hunting license and appropriate tags.
  • Follow bag limits and species-specific regulations.
  • Wear hunter orange during certain seasons for safety.
  • Respect private property and obtain permission before hunting on private land.
  • Adhere to firearm and archery equipment regulations.

For detailed rules, check the West Virginia Hunting Regulations.

Top Places to Hunt in West Virginia

West Virginia offers diverse hunting opportunities across the state. Here are some of the best hunting spots:

  • Monongahela National Forest: Known for deer, turkey, and bear hunting.
  • George Washington and Jefferson National Forests: Offers excellent deer and turkey hunting opportunities.
  • Ohio River Valley: Popular for waterfowl hunting.
  • Eastern Panhandle: Ideal for deer and turkey hunting.
  • Southern West Virginia: Great for bear, deer, and small game hunting.

Always check access and land ownership before heading out.

West Virginia Deer Processors

After a successful hunt, you’ll need a reliable deer processor. Here are some recommended options in West Virginia:

  • Mountain State Butcher Shop – Located in Charleston, offering game processing services.
  • Eastern Panhandle Game Processors – Serving the Martinsburg area with high-quality game processing.
  • Southern West Virginia Deer Processing – A trusted processor in the Beckley area.

Call ahead to confirm availability and pricing.

Tips for Hunting in West Virginia

Make the most of your West Virginia hunting experience with these tips:

  • Check the weather and pack accordingly, as West Virginia’s climate can vary greatly.
  • Scout your hunting area in advance to identify game trails and feeding areas.
  • Practice ethical hunting by taking clean shots and respecting wildlife.
  • Carry a map, compass, or GPS device, as cell service can be limited in remote areas.