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Planning Updated Jan 29, 2026

West Virginia Hunting Season Dates

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

West Virginia Hunting Season Calendar

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

WV regulations 3 species Split seasons shown Zone info included
WV

Coming Up in West Virginia

Seasons opening in the next 60 days

Turkey Any Legal Method

Apr 20 - May 23, 2026

Opens in 48 days

Complete Season Calendar

All West Virginia hunting seasons organized by species

Deer 4 seasons

Method Dates Zone Status Notes Add to Calendar
Archery Sep 27 - Dec 31, 2025 Statewide Closed Extended archery
Rifle/Firearm Nov 24 - Dec 7, 2025 Statewide Closed Buck firearms
Rifle/Firearm Dec 8-14, 2025 Statewide Closed Antlerless firearms
Muzzleloader Dec 15-21, 2025 Statewide Closed Muzzleloader season

Turkey 1 season

Method Dates Zone Status Notes Add to Calendar
Any Legal Method Apr 20 - May 23, 2026 Statewide Upcoming Spring gobbler

Bear 1 season

Method Dates Zone Status Notes Add to Calendar
Any Legal Method Sep 27 - Dec 31, 2025 Statewide Closed Archery / gun

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WV

West Virginia Hunting Regulations

License year, species, and agency information

License Year
Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025
Available Species
  • Bear
  • Deer
  • Turkey
Hunting Methods
  • Archery
  • Rifle/Firearm
  • Muzzleloader
  • Any Legal Method
Official Source: West Virginia Division of Natural 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 West Virginia

West Virginia has generous public land opportunities.

Hunting Method Legend

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

West Virginia Hunting FAQ

Common questions about hunting seasons in West Virginia

What are the hunting season dates for West Virginia?

West Virginia offers hunting seasons for Bear, Deer, Turkey. The license year runs from Jan 1, 2025 to Dec 31, 2025. Check our complete calendar above for specific dates by species and method.

When does deer season start in West Virginia?

Deer season in West Virginia typically begins with archery season starting Sep 27, 2025, followed by firearms/rifle season starting Nov 24, 2025.

Does West Virginia require a draw for hunting?

West 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 West Virginia?

The next season to open is Turkey starting Apr 20, 2026.

What should I know about hunting in West Virginia?

West Virginia has generous public land opportunities.

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West Virginia License Info

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