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Planning Updated Jan 29, 2026

Virginia Hunting Season Dates

Complete hunting calendar for Virginia including deer, elk, turkey, and more.

Virginia Hunting Season Calendar

Find all hunting season dates for Virginia including deer, elk, turkey, and waterfowl. Filter by species and hunting method.

VA regulations 3 species Split seasons shown Zone info included
VA

Coming Up in Virginia

Seasons opening in the next 60 days

Turkey Any Legal Method

Apr 11 - May 16, 2026

Opens in 39 days

Complete Season Calendar

All Virginia hunting seasons organized by species

Deer 5 seasons

Method Dates Zone Status Notes Add to Calendar
Archery Oct 4 - Nov 14, 2025 Statewide Closed Early archery
Archery Dec 1, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026 Statewide Closed Late archery
Rifle/Firearm Nov 15-29, 2025 Statewide Closed Firearms season
Muzzleloader Nov 1-14, 2025 Statewide Closed Early muzzleloader
Muzzleloader Dec 6, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026 Statewide Closed Late muzzleloader

Turkey 1 season

Method Dates Zone Status Notes Add to Calendar
Any Legal Method Apr 11 - May 16, 2026 Statewide Upcoming Spring season

Bear 1 season

Method Dates Zone Status Notes Add to Calendar
Any Legal Method Oct 4, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026 Statewide Closed Varies by zone

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VA

Virginia Hunting Regulations

License year, species, and agency information

License Year
Jul 1, 2025 - Jun 30, 2026
Available Species
  • Bear
  • Deer
  • Turkey
Hunting Methods
  • Archery
  • Rifle/Firearm
  • Muzzleloader
  • Any Legal Method
Official Source: Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
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This information is for reference only. Always verify regulations with your state wildlife agency before hunting or fishing.

Last verified: January 2026

Important Note for Virginia

Virginia has earn-a-buck in some counties to manage deer population.

Hunting Method Legend

Archery Bow & Crossbow
Rifle/Firearm Modern rifles
Muzzleloader Black powder
Shotgun Shotguns only
Any Legal All methods

Virginia Hunting FAQ

Common questions about hunting seasons in Virginia

What are the hunting season dates for Virginia?

Virginia offers hunting seasons for Bear, Deer, Turkey. The license year runs from Jul 1, 2025 to Jun 30, 2026. Check our complete calendar above for specific dates by species and method.

When does deer season start in Virginia?

Deer season in Virginia typically begins with archery season starting Oct 4, 2025, followed by firearms/rifle season starting Nov 15, 2025.

Does Virginia require a draw for hunting?

Virginia offers general season licenses for some species and may require draws for others like elk, moose, or pronghorn. Check specific requirements for your target species.

What hunting seasons are open now in Virginia?

The next season to open is Turkey starting Apr 11, 2026.

What should I know about hunting in Virginia?

Virginia has earn-a-buck in some counties to manage deer population.

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Virginia License Info

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