Virginia 2026-27 Hunting Season Dates
Quick answer
Virginia's 2026-27 firearm deer season opens November 14, 2026 in every zone and closes between December 12, 2026 and January 2, 2027 depending on zone.
Archery deer season runs Oct 3-Nov 13, 2026.
Fall turkey season opens October 17, 2026 in every zone and runs in split segments through January 23, 2027; the dates for each zone are in the table below.
The tables below keep the rest of the listed seasons together by species, with source links back to Virginia DWR.
- firearm deer
- Nov 14-Dec 12, 2026; later in some zones
- archery deer
- Oct 3-Nov 13, 2026
- fall turkey
- opens Oct 17, 2026; split dates by zone
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Key seasons by species
How to read Virginia's seasons
Deer seasons vary widely by county
Virginia sets deer seasons on a county-by-county framework, so early and late dates, either-sex days, and weapon rules differ across the state. Read the rows below with your county in mind, not just the statewide picture.
Confirm county-specific dates and any damage-management or urban-archery rules with the official Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources source.
We summarize official agency information and link to the source for verification. Regulations can change, and zone details matter. Always confirm final dates, bag limits, permits, and legal requirements with Virginia DWR before hunting.
New 2026-27
federal openings
in Virginia
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service opened or expanded hunting and fishing access at 5 stations in Virginia. The final rule took effect August 31, 2026.
- VA · NWR
Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck NWR
VirginiaBIG GAME: OPENING - VA · NWR
James River NWR
VirginiaUPLAND GAME: OPENING - VA · NWR
Occoquan Bay NWR
VirginiaUPLAND GAME: OPENINGBIG GAME: OPEN + EXPAND - VA · NWR
Presquile NWR
VirginiaUPLAND GAME: OPENINGBIG GAME: EXPANSION - VA · NWR
Rappahannock NWR
VirginiaUPLAND GAME: OPEN + EXPANDBIG GAME: EXPANSION
Deer
113 listed rowsWhite-tailed Deer
Firearms (General)
Either-sex deer hunting days: October 1 through November 30 (full season).
Zone: Cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk (east of the Dismal Swamp line), and Virginia Beach
White-tailed Deer
Cavalier WMA Firearms
Either-sex days: October 10, October 17, and November 18-30.
Zone: Cavalier WMA
White-tailed Deer
Early Archery
Firearm season in Chesapeake, Suffolk (east of the Dismal Swamp line), and Virginia Beach overlaps early archery season. Deer of either sex may be taken full season.
Zone: Statewide
White-tailed Deer
Early Muzzleloader
No early muzzleloader season in Chesapeake, Suffolk (east of Dismal Swamp line), or Virginia Beach since it occurs during general firearms season. Antlered deer may be taken every day. Antlerless deer only on designated either-sex days. Muzzleloader hunters and accompanying persons shall wear blaze color except when in tree stand or stationary hunting location.
Zone: Statewide (except cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk east of Dismal Swamp line, and Virginia Beach)
White-tailed Deer
GW Jefferson National Forest Firearms
Antlered deer only - no either-sex days.
Zone: George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Dickenson County
White-tailed Deer
Private Lands Firearms
Either-sex deer hunting days: November 14 through January 2 (full season). EAB applies to starred counties. Arlington County, City of Hampton, City of Richmond: archery only, no special permit required for archery deer hunting - local ordinances prohibit discharge of firearms. City of Lynchburg: on private lands with special permit issued by Chief of Police. City of Newport News: archery only. Fairfax County: firearms hunting restricted by location and parcel size.
Zone: Accomack, Albemarle, Amherst, Arlington, Bedford, Campbell, Carroll, Charles City, Chesterfield, Clarke, Culpeper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Floyd, Fluvanna, Franklin, Frederick, Goochland, Greene, Greensvi…
White-tailed Deer
Private Lands Firearms
Either-sex deer hunting days: November 21, 28, and December 5 through January 2.
Zone: Amelia, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Nottoway counties (private lands)
White-tailed Deer
GW Jefferson National Forest Firearms
Either-sex days: November 28.
Zone: George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Augusta County
White-tailed Deer
WMA Firearms
Either-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 21-January 2.
Zone: Hardware River WMA
White-tailed Deer
Army Corps Lands Firearms
Either-sex days: November 21 and December 7-12.
Zone: Philpott Reservoir
White-tailed Deer
GW Jefferson National Forest Firearms
Either-sex days: November 28.
Zone: George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Grayson County
White-tailed Deer
WMA Firearms
Either-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 21-January 2.
Zone: Powhatan WMA
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Little North Mountain WMAEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Rockbridge CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Ragged Island WMAAntlered deer only - no either-sex days. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Chickahominy WMAAntlered deer only; does by quota. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerPrivate Lands Firearms · Caroline, King & Queen, and King William counties (private lands)Either-sex deer hunting days: November 21, 28, and December 21 through January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Warren CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerPrivate Lands Firearms · Dickenson and Wise counties (private lands)Either-sex deer hunting days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Oakley Forest WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 21-January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerPrivate Lands Firearms · Alleghany, Bath, Highland, Lee, and Rockingham (west of Routes 613 and 731) counties (private lands)Either-sex deer hunting days: November 21, 27, and 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerPrivate Lands Firearms · Henry and Patrick counties (private lands)Either-sex deer hunting days: November 21, 28, and November 30 through December 12. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Bland CountyEither-sex days: November 21, November 27, and November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Featherfin WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 5-January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Thompson WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 21-January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Robert W. Duncan WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 28-January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerPrivate Lands Firearms · Buchanan County (private lands)Special Youth and Apprentice Antlerless Deer Regulation applies. Earn a Buck does not apply in Buchanan County. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Washington CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Hidden Valley WMAEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Scott CountyAntlered deer only - no either-sex days. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Briery Creek WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 28-January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerState Forest Firearms · Prince Edward State ForestEither-sex days: November 21 and November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Big Woods WMAEither-sex days: November 14 through January 2 (full season). | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerState Forest Firearms · Big Woods State ForestEither-sex days: November 14 through January 2 (full season). | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerState Forest Firearms · Appomattox-Buckingham State ForestEither-sex days: November 21 and November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerState Forest Firearms · Cumberland State ForestEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 5. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Amherst CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerPrivate Lands Firearms · Appomattox, Brunswick, Buckingham, Charlotte, Dinwiddie, Essex, Lunenburg, Mathews, Mecklenburg, Middlesex, and Prince Edward counties (private lands)Either-sex deer hunting days: November 21, 28, and December 28 through January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Game Farm Marsh WMAEither-sex days: November 14-January 2 (full season). | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Botetourt CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · White Oak Mountain WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 31-January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Clinch Mountain WMAEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Big Survey WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 27, and November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Lee CountyAntlered deer only - no either-sex days. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Montgomery CountyEither-sex days: November 21 and November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Frederick CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Smyth CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Flippo-Gentry WMAEither-sex days: November 14-January 2 (full season). | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Turkeycock WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 7-12. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Giles CountyEither-sex days: November 21, November 27, and November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Dick Cross WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 28-January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Highland CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Goshen WMAEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Tazewell CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerGW Jefferson National Forest Firearms · George Washington and Jefferson National Forest - Alleghany CountyEither-sex days: November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerPrivate Lands Firearms · Bland, Russell, Scott, and Tazewell counties (private lands)Either-sex deer hunting days: November 21 through November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Pettigrew WMAEither-sex days: November 21, November 28, and December 28-January 2. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Stewarts Creek WMAEither-sex days: November 21 and November 28. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerArmy Corps Lands Firearms · Flannagan ReservoirAntlered deer only - no either-sex days. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerWMA Firearms · Smith Mountain Cooperative WMAEither-sex days: November 14-January 2 (full season). | Upcoming |
Showing 60 of 113 listed deer rows, open and upcoming seasons first. See all 113 Virginia deer seasons →
Turkey
18 listed rowsWild Turkey
Archery
Archery tackle only. Broadhead widths must be at least 7/8-inch wide or expand upon impact to 7/8-inch. Using firearms to hunt prohibited during archery season.
Zone: Statewide except in areas where there is a closed firearm season on turkey
Wild Turkey
Fall Firearms
Zone: Bedford, Bland, Botetourt, Caroline, Carroll, Clarke, Craig, Culpeper, Dickenson, Essex, Fairfax, Fauquier, Franklin, Giles, Grayson, King and Queen, King George, King William, Lancaster, Lee, Loudou…
Wild Turkey
Fall Firearms
Zone: Accomack, Amelia, Dinwiddie, Gloucester, Greensville, Isle of Wight, James City, Mathews, Middlesex, New Kent, Northampton, Powhatan, Prince George, Southampton, Surry, Sussex, York (except on Camp P…
Wild Turkey
Fall Firearms
Zone: Amherst, Appomattox, Brunswick, Buchanan, Buckingham, Campbell, Charles City, Charlotte, Chesterfield, Cumberland, Floyd, Fluvanna, Frederick, Goochland, Halifax, Hanover, Henrico, Henry, Louisa, Lun…
Wild Turkey
Fall Firearms
Zone: Albemarle, Alleghany, Augusta, Bath, Greene, Highland, Madison, Page, and Rockingham counties
Wild Turkey
Fall Firearms
Zone: Bedford, Bland, Botetourt, Caroline, Carroll, Clarke, Craig, Culpeper, Dickenson, Essex, Fairfax, Fauquier, Franklin, Giles, Grayson, King and Queen, King George, King William, Lancaster, Lee, Loudou…
Wild Turkey
Fall Firearms
Zone: Accomack, Amelia, Dinwiddie, Gloucester, Greensville, Isle of Wight, James City, Mathews, Middlesex, New Kent, Northampton, Powhatan, Prince George, Southampton, Surry, Sussex, York (except on Camp P…
Wild Turkey
Fall Firearms
Zone: Amherst, Appomattox, Brunswick, Buchanan, Buckingham, Campbell, Charles City, Charlotte, Chesterfield, Cumberland, Floyd, Fluvanna, Frederick, Goochland, Halifax, Hanover, Henrico, Henry, Louisa, Lun…
Wild Turkey
Fall Firearms
Zone: Amherst, Appomattox, Brunswick, Buchanan, Buckingham, Campbell, Charles City, Charlotte, Chesterfield, Cumberland, Floyd, Fluvanna, Frederick, Goochland, Halifax, Hanover, Henrico, Henry, Louisa, Lun…
Wild Turkey
Fall Firearms
Zone: Bedford, Bland, Botetourt, Caroline, Carroll, Clarke, Craig, Culpeper, Dickenson, Essex, Fairfax, Fauquier, Franklin, Giles, Grayson, King and Queen, King George, King William, Lancaster, Lee, Loudou…
Wild Turkey
Youth and Apprentice Spring
Resident and nonresident youth hunters 15 years of age and under or holders of a valid apprentice hunting license. Must be accompanied and directly supervised by an adult over 18 with a valid Virginia hunting license. Hunting hours are from 1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Wild Turkey
Spring Firearms
Hunting hours: one-half hour before sunrise until 12 noon each day.
Zone: Statewide
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Wild TurkeyYouth and Apprentice Fall · Statewide in counties, cities, and areas with a fall turkey seasonResident and nonresident youth hunters 15 years of age and under or holders of a valid apprentice hunting license. Must be accompanied and directly supervised by an adult over 18 with a valid Virginia hunting license. Hunting hours are from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeyFall Firearms · Albemarle, Alleghany, Augusta, Bath, Greene, Highland, Madison, Page, and Rockingham counties | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeyFall Firearms · Bedford, Bland, Botetourt, Caroline, Carroll, Clarke, Craig, Culpeper, Dickenson, Essex, Fairfax, Fauquier, Franklin, Giles, Grayson, King and Queen, King George, King William, Lancaster, Lee, Loudou… | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeyFall Firearms · Accomack, Amelia, Dinwiddie, Gloucester, Greensville, Isle of Wight, James City, Mathews, Middlesex, New Kent, Northampton, Powhatan, Prince George, Southampton, Surry, Sussex, York (except on Camp P… | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeyFall Firearms · Amherst, Appomattox, Brunswick, Buchanan, Buckingham, Campbell, Charles City, Charlotte, Chesterfield, Cumberland, Floyd, Fluvanna, Frederick, Goochland, Halifax, Hanover, Henrico, Henry, Louisa, Lun… | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring Firearms · StatewideHunting hours: one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Unlawful to use electronic calls. When using a shotgun it is unlawful to use or have in possession any shot with a diameter larger than number 2 fine shot during spring turkey season. | Upcoming |
Bear
32 listed rowsBlack Bear
Firearms
Zone: Cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach
Black Bear
Towns and Cities
Any lawful weapon. This season will not supersede local ordinances with respect to hunting or use of weapon.
Zone: Incorporated limits of any town or city that allows bear hunting
Black Bear
Archery
Zone: Accomack and Northampton counties
Black Bear
Archery
Zone: Amelia, Brunswick, Campbell, Carroll, Charles City, Cumberland, Dinwiddie, Essex, Floyd, Franklin, Gloucester, Grayson, Greensville, Henry, Isle of Wight, James City, King & Queen, King George, King…
Black Bear
Archery
Zone: Cities of Chesapeake, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach
Black Bear
Archery
Zone: Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Washington, and Wise counties
Black Bear
Archery
Zone: Arlington, Bland, Caroline, Charlotte, Chesterfield, Craig, Fairfax, Fluvanna, Giles, Goochland, Halifax, Hanover, Henrico, Louisa, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Orange, Powhatan, Prince Edward, Prince Wi…
Black Bear
Archery
Zone: Albemarle, Alleghany, Amherst, Appomattox, Augusta, Bath, Bedford, Botetourt, Buckingham, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Frederick, Greene, Highland, Loudoun, Madison, Nelson, Page, Rappahannock, Rockbr…
Black Bear
Muzzleloader
Zone: Arlington, Bland, Caroline, Charlotte, Chesterfield, Craig, Fairfax, Fluvanna, Giles, Goochland, Halifax, Hanover, Henrico, Louisa, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Orange, Powhatan, Prince Edward, Prince Wi…
Black Bear
Muzzleloader
Firearms: closed season.
Zone: Accomack and Northampton counties
Black Bear
Muzzleloader
Zone: Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Washington, and Wise counties
Black Bear
Muzzleloader
Zone: Amelia, Brunswick, Campbell, Carroll, Charles City, Cumberland, Dinwiddie, Essex, Floyd, Franklin, Gloucester, Grayson, Greensville, Henry, Isle of Wight, James City, King & Queen, King George, King…
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Albemarle, Alleghany, Amherst, Augusta, Bath, Bedford, Botetourt, Culpeper, Greene, Highland, Madison, Nelson, Page, Rappahannock, Rockbridge, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Warren countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Including Sundays. | Closed | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Charlotte and Mecklenburg countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Including Sundays. | Closed | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Brunswick, Greensville, and Lunenburg countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Including Sundays. | Closed | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Craig, Dickenson, Franklin, Floyd, Giles, Grayson (East of State Rt 16), Lee, Montgomery, Pulaski, Roanoke (North of 81), Russell, Scott, Smyth (East of State Rt. 16 and nor…No black bear may be taken during this season. Including Sundays. Except Cavalier WMA (August 8 through August 22, including Sundays). | Closed | |
| Black BearEarly Firearms · Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Washington, and Wise countiesExcept on Clinch Mountain WMA. | Closed | |
| Black BearYouth and Apprentice Bear Hunting Weekend · StatewideHunting weapons legal during the firearms season are allowed on this weekend. Youth 15 and under or holders of a valid apprentice hunting license, accompanied by a licensed adult. | Closed | |
| Black BearMuzzleloader · Albemarle, Alleghany, Amherst, Appomattox, Augusta, Bath, Bedford, Botetourt, Buckingham, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Frederick, Greene, Highland, Loudoun, Madison, Nelson, Page, Rappahannock, Rockbr… | Upcoming | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Halifax and Prince Edward countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Including Sundays. | Upcoming | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Charlotte and Mecklenburg countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Including Sundays. | Upcoming | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Amelia, Campbell (East of Norfolk Southern Railroad), Charles City, Cumberland, Dinwiddie, Essex, Gloucester, Isle of Wight, James City, King & Queen, King George, King William, Lancaster, Mathews, M…No black bear may be taken during this season. Including Sundays. | Upcoming | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Appomattox and Buckingham countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Including Sundays. | Upcoming | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Brunswick, Greensville, and Lunenburg countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Including Sundays. | Upcoming | |
| Black BearFirearms · Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Washington, and Wise counties | Upcoming | |
| Black BearFirearms · Arlington, Bland, Caroline, Charlotte, Chesterfield, Craig, Fairfax, Fluvanna, Giles, Goochland, Halifax, Hanover, Henrico, Louisa, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Orange, Powhatan, Prince Edward, Prince Wi… | Upcoming | |
| Black BearFirearms - First Segment · Albemarle, Alleghany, Amherst, Appomattox, Augusta, Bath, Bedford, Botetourt, Buckingham, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Frederick, Greene, Highland, Loudoun, Madison, Nelson, Page, Rappahannock, Rockbr… | Upcoming | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Appomattox and Buckingham countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Excluding Sundays. | Upcoming | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Clarke, Fauquier, and Frederick countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Excluding Sundays. | Upcoming | |
| Black BearFirearms · Amelia, Brunswick, Campbell, Carroll, Charles City, Cumberland, Dinwiddie, Essex, Floyd, Franklin, Gloucester, Grayson, Greensville, Henry, Isle of Wight, James City, King & Queen, King George, King… | Upcoming | |
| Black BearBear Hound Training/Chase · Albemarle, Alleghany, Amherst, Augusta, Bath, Bedford, Botetourt, Culpeper, Greene, Highland, Madison, Nelson, Page, Rappahannock, Rockbridge, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Warren countiesNo black bear may be taken during this season. Excluding Sundays. | Upcoming | |
| Black BearFirearms - Second Segment · Albemarle, Alleghany, Amherst, Appomattox, Augusta, Bath, Bedford, Botetourt, Buckingham, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Frederick, Greene, Highland, Loudoun, Madison, Nelson, Page, Rappahannock, Rockbr… | Upcoming |
Waterfowl
33 listed rowsAtlantic Brant
Falconry
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Tundra Swan
Regular Season
Permit required. Application deadline September 25, 2026. No more than 475 swan hunting permits issued through special drawing. Permit holders must also possess a valid Virginia hunting license. Permits are non-transferable. Hunters required to complete tundra swan hunt questionnaire and submit results by February 15, 2027. Those who fail to submit results are ineligible for future drawings.
Zone: All counties and portions of counties lying east of I-95 and south of the Prince William/Stafford County line in Chopawamsic Creek at Quantico Marine Corps Base
Canada Goose
Falconry - Second Segment
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Canada Goose (includes White-fronted Geese)
Regular Season - First Segment
One-half hour before sunrise to sunset. All seasons also include White-fronted geese. RP Zone: portion of the state west of the AP Zone boundary.
Zone: Resident Population (RP) Zone
Coots
Regular Season - Second Segment
Non-toxic shot required.
Zone: Statewide
Ducks
Regular Season - Second Segment
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Closed season on harlequin ducks. No person may take more than one daily bag limit in any one day. Non-toxic shot required.
Zone: Statewide
Ducks, Mergansers, Coot
Falconry - Second Segment
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Mergansers
Regular Season - Second Segment
Non-toxic shot required.
Zone: Statewide
Canada Goose (includes White-fronted Geese)
Regular Season - First Segment
One-half hour before sunrise to sunset. All seasons also include White-fronted geese. AP Zone: area east of the Blue Ridge (Loudoun County-Clarke County border) at WV-VA border, south to I-64, then east along I-64 to I-95 in Richmond, then south along I-95 to Route 460 in Petersburg, then southeast along Route 460 to Route 32 in the City of Suffolk, then south to NC border.
Zone: Atlantic Population (AP) Zone
Light Geese
Falconry
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Light Goose (Greater and Lesser Snow Geese and Ross's Geese)
Regular Season
One-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Use of electronic calls and unplugged shotguns permitted in areas and at times when other waterfowl seasons are closed.
Zone: Statewide
Atlantic Brant
Regular Season - First Segment
Non-toxic shot required.
Zone: Statewide
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Atlantic BrantRegular Season - Second Segment · StatewideNon-toxic shot required. | Upcoming | |
| Canada GooseSeptember Canada Goose - First Segment · East of I-95One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. Shotguns capable of holding more than three shells may be used. Season is September 1-25 statewide. September Canada goose hunting not permitted within boundaries of Amelia and Dick Cross Wildlife Management Areas. Federal migratory duck stamp and Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp also required. | Closed | |
| Canada GooseFalconry - First Segment · StatewideHawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset. | Closed | |
| Canada GooseSeptember Canada Goose - First Segment · West of I-95One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. Shotguns capable of holding more than three shells may be used. Season is September 1-25 statewide. September Canada goose hunting not permitted within boundaries of Amelia and Dick Cross Wildlife Management Areas. Federal migratory duck stamp and Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp also required. | Closed | |
| Canada GooseSeptember Canada Goose - Second Segment · East of I-95One-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Shotguns capable of holding more than three shells prohibited. September Canada goose hunting not permitted within boundaries of Amelia and Dick Cross Wildlife Management Areas. Federal migratory duck stamp and Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp also required. | Closed | |
| Canada GooseSeptember Canada Goose - Second Segment · West of I-95One-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Shotguns capable of holding more than three shells prohibited. September Canada goose hunting not permitted within boundaries of Amelia and Dick Cross Wildlife Management Areas. Federal migratory duck stamp and Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp also required. | Closed | |
| Canada GooseFalconry - Third Segment · StatewideHawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset. | Upcoming | |
| Canada Goose (includes White-fronted Geese)Regular Season - Second Segment · Resident Population (RP) ZoneOne-half hour before sunrise to sunset. All seasons also include White-fronted geese. RP Zone: portion of the state west of the AP Zone boundary. | Upcoming | |
| Canada Goose (includes White-fronted Geese)Regular Season - Second Segment · Atlantic Population (AP) ZoneOne-half hour before sunrise to sunset. All seasons also include White-fronted geese. AP Zone: area east of the Blue Ridge (Loudoun County-Clarke County border) at WV-VA border, south to I-64, then east along I-64 to I-95 in Richmond, then south along I-95 to Route 460 in Petersburg, then southeast along Route 460 to Route 32 in the City of Suffolk, then south to NC border. | Upcoming | |
| CootsRegular Season - First Segment · StatewideNon-toxic shot required. | Closed | |
| CootsRegular Season - Third Segment · StatewideNon-toxic shot required. | Upcoming | |
| DucksRegular Season - First Segment · StatewideOne-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Black duck closed Oct. 9-12. Closed season on harlequin ducks. No person may take more than one daily bag limit in any one day. Non-toxic shot required. | Closed | |
| DucksRegular Season - Third Segment · StatewideOne-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Closed season on harlequin ducks. No person may take more than one daily bag limit in any one day. Non-toxic shot required. | Upcoming | |
| Ducks, Mergansers, CootFalconry - First Segment · StatewideHawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset. | Closed | |
| Ducks, Mergansers, Coots (Youth & Veterans)Youth and Veterans Waterfowl Hunting Day · StatewideOpen to Youth 15 years of age and under, Military Veterans, and members of the Armed Forces on active duty including National Guard and Reserves on active duty (other than for training). Resident youth aged 12-15, nonresident youth age 15 or under, and Veterans need a valid Virginia hunting license unless license exempt. All hunters must be Virginia HIP registered. All youth must be accompanied and directly supervised by an adult at least 18 years of age or older. The accompanying adult cannot hunt ducks (unless they are a Veteran). | Closed | |
| Ducks, Mergansers, Coots (Youth & Veterans)Youth and Veterans Waterfowl Hunting Day · StatewideOpen to Youth 15 years of age and under, Military Veterans, and members of the Armed Forces on active duty including National Guard and Reserves on active duty (other than for training). Resident youth aged 12-15, nonresident youth age 15 or under, and Veterans need a valid Virginia hunting license unless license exempt. All hunters must be Virginia HIP registered. All youth must be accompanied and directly supervised by an adult at least 18 years of age or older. The accompanying adult cannot hunt ducks (unless they are a Veteran). | Upcoming | |
| MergansersRegular Season - First Segment · StatewideNon-toxic shot required. | Closed | |
| MergansersRegular Season - Third Segment · StatewideNon-toxic shot required. | Upcoming | |
| Teal (Blue-winged and Green-winged)September Teal · East of I-95One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Federal migratory duck stamp and Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp also required. Hunters reminded to positively identify ducks before shooting as other species such as wood ducks may be in the area. | Closed | |
| Teal (Blue-winged and Green-winged)September Teal · West of I-95One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Federal migratory duck stamp and Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp also required. Hunters reminded to positively identify ducks before shooting as other species such as wood ducks may be in the area. | Closed | |
| Teal (September Teal)Falconry · StatewideHawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset. | Closed |
Dove
Dove
Falconry
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Mourning Dove / White-winged Dove
Second Segment
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Dove hunting permitted at all WMAs except Hog Island and Princess Anne; several WMAs managed for waterfowl exclude dove hunting within impoundments only.
Zone: Statewide
Dove
Falconry
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Mourning Dove / White-winged Dove
Third Segment
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Dove hunting permitted at all WMAs except Hog Island and Princess Anne; several WMAs managed for waterfowl exclude dove hunting within impoundments only.
Zone: Statewide
Dove
Falconry
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Mourning Dove / White-winged Dove
First Segment
September 5: Noon until sunset. September 6-October 24: One-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Pheasant
Pheasant
Regular
Zone: Statewide
Quail
Quail
Regular
Closed on all public lands west of the Blue Ridge Mountains and, until further notice, on Flippo-Gentry WMA in Sussex County.
Zone: Statewide
Grouse
Ruffed Grouse
Regular
Continuous closed season east of I-95.
Zone: West of I-95
Rabbit
Rabbit
Trapping (box traps only)
Box traps only. No traps shall be set on another's land without written permission of the landowner. No license required to box trap rabbits. Live box-trapped rabbits may not be moved outside the county of capture.
Zone: Statewide
Rabbit
Regular
DWR monitoring RHDV2 (rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2). Per regulation, properly dispose of all portions of rabbits harvested in Virginia not saved for human consumption via burial (at least two feet), incineration, or double-bagging and placing in trash. Per regulation, fully dress all rabbits harvested out-of-state before importing into Virginia.
Zone: Statewide
Squirrel
Fox Squirrels
Fall
Designated areas only.
Zone: Counties west of the Blue Ridge and counties of Albemarle, Bedford, Culpeper, Fauquier, Franklin, Greene, Henry, Loudoun, Madison, Orange, Patrick, Prince William, and Rappahannock
Gray and Red Squirrels
Fall
Zone: Statewide
Fox Squirrels
Spring
Closed on National Forest lands. May be harvested on all lands unless otherwise posted in eligible counties and on listed WMAs.
Zone: All counties with open fall fox squirrel season and listed WMAs
Gray and Red Squirrels
Spring
Closed on National Forest lands. May be harvested on listed WMAs and statewide unless otherwise posted.
Zone: Statewide (except National Forest lands)
Furbearer
22 listed rowsBobcat
Firearms
All hunted bobcats must be reported within 24 hours.
Zone: Statewide
Opossum
Firearms
Zone: Statewide
Raccoon
Firearms
Zone: Statewide
Red Fox
Firearms
Closed in Albemarle, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier (except Quantico), Loudoun, Louisa, and Rappahannock counties.
Zone: Statewide
Striped Skunk
Regular
Also during the spring turkey season. May also be hunted on Department lands during the spring squirrel season unless otherwise posted.
Zone: National Forest lands and Department lands
Bobcat
Trapping
All trapped bobcats must be reported within 24 hours.
Zone: Statewide
Gray Fox
Trapping
Fox (red and gray) trapping is prohibited in Clarke (except on G. R. Thompson WMA), Fauquier (except on C. F. Phelps WMA and G. R. Thompson WMA), Loudoun, and Rappahannock counties. All trapped gray foxes must be reported within 24 hours.
Zone: Statewide
Opossum
Trapping
Continuous open season to trap beaver, muskrat, opossum, and raccoon within the incorporated limits of any city or town, and in the counties of Arlington, Chesterfield, Fairfax, Henrico, James City, Loudoun, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Roanoke, and York. Continuous open season to trap opossum and raccoon upon private lands throughout the state with the permission of the landowner.
Zone: Statewide
Raccoon
Trapping
Continuous open season to trap beaver, muskrat, opossum, and raccoon within the incorporated limits of any city or town, and in the counties of Arlington, Chesterfield, Fairfax, Henrico, James City, Loudoun, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Roanoke, and York. Continuous open season to trap opossum and raccoon upon private lands throughout the state with the permission of the landowner.
Zone: Statewide
Red Fox
Trapping
Fox (red and gray) trapping is prohibited in Clarke (except on G. R. Thompson WMA), Fauquier (except on C. F. Phelps WMA and G. R. Thompson WMA), Loudoun, and Rappahannock counties.
Zone: Statewide
Beaver
Trapping
Continuous open season to trap beaver, muskrat, opossum, and raccoon within the incorporated limits of any city or town, and in the counties of Arlington, Chesterfield, Fairfax, Henrico, James City, Loudoun, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Roanoke, and York.
Zone: Statewide
Mink
Trapping
Zone: Statewide
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| BobcatArchery · StatewideUnlawful to use dogs when hunting with archery tackle during the bobcat archery season. | Closed | |
| FoxChase-Only Season · StatewideNo foxes may be taken except during the firearms season. Closed March 1 through October 31 and during the firearms season for deer on the George Washington/Jefferson National Forests and on Gathright, Goshen, Highland, and Little North Mountain WMAs. Closed March 1 through October 31 on G. Richard Thompson and Rapidan WMAs. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Gray FoxFirearms · StatewideClosed in Albemarle, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier (except Quantico), Loudoun, Louisa, and Rappahannock counties. All harvested gray foxes must be reported within 24 hours. | Upcoming | |
| MuskratTrapping · StatewideContinuous open season to trap beaver, muskrat, opossum, and raccoon within the incorporated limits of any city or town, and in the counties of Arlington, Chesterfield, Fairfax, Henrico, James City, Loudoun, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Roanoke, and York. | Upcoming | |
| NutriaTrapping · StatewidePlease report verifiable sightings. | dates not listed | Closed |
| OtterTrapping · Statewide | Upcoming | |
| RaccoonChase-Only Season · StatewideNo raccoon may be taken except during the firearms season. Raccoons may only be chased on Department-controlled lands west of the Blue Ridge Mountains and on National Forest lands where bears can be chased on those lands from August 1 through September 27. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Striped SkunkRegular · Statewide except National Forest lands and Department landsContinuous closed season for taking spotted skunks. | dates not listed | Closed |
| Striped SkunkTrapping · StatewideContinuous closed season for taking spotted skunk. | dates not listed | Closed |
| WeaselTrapping · Statewide | Upcoming |
Migratory Birds
Common Snipe
Falconry - First Segment
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Common Snipe
Regular Season - First Segment
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Non-toxic shot required.
Zone: Statewide
Rail, Gallinule, Moorhen
Falconry
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Woodcock
Falconry
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Rails (Clapper, King, Sora, Virginia) and Gallinules
Regular Season - Second Segment
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Non-toxic shot required.
Zone: Statewide
Woodcock
Regular Season - First Segment
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Common Snipe
Falconry - Second Segment
Hawking hours: half-hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Common Snipe
Regular Season - Second Segment
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Non-toxic shot required.
Zone: Statewide
Woodcock
Regular Season - Second Segment
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
Zone: Statewide
Rails (Clapper, King, Sora, Virginia) and Gallinules
Regular Season - First Segment
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Non-toxic shot required.
Zone: Statewide
Coyote
Coyote
Regular
Also during the spring turkey season. May also be hunted on Department lands during the spring squirrel season unless otherwise posted.
Zone: National Forest lands and Department lands
Coyote
Trapping
dates not listed
Exact dates not listed in the current data.
Zone: Statewide
Coyote
Regular
dates not listed
Exact dates not listed in the current data.
Coyote bounties are not administered by DWR.
Zone: Statewide except National Forest lands and Department lands
Other
Crow
Regular
On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only. Crows are a federally regulated migratory species; no HIP registration required; unplugged shotguns allowed. Electronic calls may be used on private and public lands.
Zone: Statewide
Crow
Regular
On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only. Crows are a federally regulated migratory species; no HIP registration required; unplugged shotguns allowed. Electronic calls may be used on private and public lands.
Zone: National Forest Lands and Department lands
Groundhog
Regular
Also permitted during the spring turkey season. Not permitted on National Forest lands during the spring squirrel season.
Zone: National Forest lands and Department lands
Groundhog
Regular
dates not listed
Exact dates not listed in the current data.
Continuous open season on private lands.
Zone: Private lands
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Virginia Hunting Season FAQ
When does deer season start in Virginia?
Archery deer season runs Oct 3-Nov 13, 2026. Firearm deer season opens November 14, 2026 in every zone and closes between December 12, 2026 and January 2, 2027 depending on zone. Dates can differ by zone and permit; confirm with Virginia DWR.
When is Virginia's firearm deer season?
Firearm deer season opens November 14, 2026 in every zone and closes between December 12, 2026 and January 2, 2027 depending on zone. Check zone and permit details with Virginia DWR before hunting.
When does spring turkey open in Virginia?
Spring turkey season runs Apr 10-25, 2027, and Apr 26-May 15, 2027. Youth and other special hunts, where listed, open earlier.
Do I need a license to hunt in Virginia?
Yes. Hunters generally need the appropriate Virginia hunting license, and some seasons may require tags, permits, stamps, or zone-specific authorizations. Confirm final requirements with Virginia DWR.
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