West Virginia Gun Season Dates: A Complete Guide

When Is Gun Season in West Virginia?

West Virginia is a state with a rich hunting tradition, and gun season is a major time for many hunters. But when exactly is gun season in West Virginia? And what do you need to know to participate?

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different types of gun seasons in West Virginia, as well as the dates and regulations for each. We’ll also provide some tips on how to prepare for and enjoy your next hunting trip.

So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting started, read on for all the information you need to know about gun season in West Virginia!

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Animal	Season	Dates
Deer	Archery	September 28-December 11
Deer	Muzzleloader	December 12-25
Deer	Shotgun	January 1-February 28
Bear	Harvest	October 15-November 30
Turkey	Spring	April 1-May 15
Turkey	Fall	November 1-30

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Gun Season Dates and Regulations in West Virginia

General Hunting Season Dates

The general hunting season in West Virginia runs from September 15 to January 31. However, specific hunting season dates vary depending on the game species.

Specific Hunting Season Dates for Each Game Species

The following is a list of specific hunting season dates for each game species in West Virginia:

• Deer: The deer hunting season runs from September 15 to January 31.
• Elk: The elk hunting season runs from September 15 to January 31.
• Bear: The bear hunting season runs from October 1 to November 30.
• Moose: The moose hunting season is closed in West Virginia.
• Antelope: The antelope hunting season is closed in West Virginia.
• Quail: The quail hunting season runs from September 15 to January 31.
• Pheasant: The pheasant hunting season runs from September 15 to January 31.
• Duck: The duck hunting season runs from September 15 to January 31.
• Goose: The goose hunting season runs from September 15 to January 31.
• Turkey: The turkey hunting season runs from April 15 to May 31.

Hunting Regulations for Each Game Species

The following is a list of hunting regulations for each game species in West Virginia:

• Deer: Deer hunters must have a valid West Virginia hunting license and a deer permit. Deer permits are issued by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Deer hunters must also follow the following regulations:
• The daily bag limit for deer is one.
• The antlerless bag limit for deer is two.
• Deer hunters must use a legal firearm or archery equipment.
• Deer hunters must wear blaze orange clothing during the hunting season.
• Elk: Elk hunters must have a valid West Virginia hunting license and an elk permit. Elk permits are issued by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Elk hunters must also follow the following regulations:
• The daily bag limit for elk is one.
• The antlerless bag limit for elk is zero.
• Elk hunters must use a legal firearm or archery equipment.
• Elk hunters must wear blaze orange clothing during the hunting season.
• Bear: Bear hunters must have a valid West Virginia hunting license and a bear permit. Bear permits are issued by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Bear hunters must also follow the following regulations:
• The daily bag limit for bear is one.
• The bear hunting season is closed in some areas of West Virginia.
• Bear hunters must use a legal firearm or archery equipment.
• Bear hunters must wear blaze orange clothing during the hunting season.
• Moose: The moose hunting season is closed in West Virginia.
• Antelope: The antelope hunting season is closed in West Virginia.
• Quail: Quail hunters must have a valid West Virginia hunting license. Quail hunters must also follow the following regulations:
• The daily bag limit for quail is ten.
• Quail hunters must use a legal shotgun with a plug that limits the number of shells that can be loaded in the gun to three.
• Quail hunters must wear blaze orange clothing during the hunting season.
• Pheasant: Pheasant hunters must have a valid West Virginia hunting license. Pheasant hunters must also follow the following regulations:
• The daily bag limit for pheasant is ten.
• Pheasant hunters must use a legal shotgun with a plug that limits the number of shells that can be loaded in the gun to three.
• Pheasant hunters must wear blaze orange clothing during the hunting season.
• Duck: Duck hunters must have a valid West Virginia hunting license and a duck stamp. Duck stamps are issued by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Duck hunters must also follow the following regulations:
• The daily bag limit for ducks varies depending on the species of duck.
• Duck hunters must use a legal shotgun with a plug that limits the number of shells that can be loaded in the gun to three.
• Duck hunters must wear blaze orange clothing during the hunting season.
• Goose: Goose hunters must have a valid West Virginia hunting license and a goose stamp. Goose stamps are issued by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Goose hunters must also follow the following regulations:
• The daily bag limit for geese varies depending on the species of goose.
• Goose hunters must use a legal shotgun with a plug that limits the number of shells that can be loaded in the gun to three

3. What to Bring When Hunting in West Virginia

When you’re planning a hunting trip in West Virginia, it’s important to make sure you have everything you need. Here is a list of the essential items you should bring:

• Firearms and ammunition. The type of firearms and ammunition you need will depend on the game you’re hunting. For example, you’ll need a rifle for deer hunting and a shotgun for waterfowl hunting. Make sure you have plenty of ammunition, as you may need to fire multiple shots at a target.
• Hunting gear. This includes items such as a hunting vest, a hat, gloves, boots, and binoculars. You may also want to bring a rangefinder, a GPS unit, and a first-aid kit.
• Clothing and gear for the weather. The weather in West Virginia can vary greatly, so it’s important to dress in layers and bring clothing that will keep you warm and dry. You may also want to bring a raincoat or umbrella, as well as sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Food and water. You’ll need to bring enough food and water to last for the duration of your trip. Make sure you pack non-perishable foods that are easy to prepare and eat. You should also bring plenty of water, as you can become dehydrated quickly in the mountains.

4. Safety Tips for Hunting in West Virginia

Hunting can be a safe activity, but there are a few things you can do to stay safe while you’re in the woods.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to where you’re walking and what you’re shooting at. Be aware of other hunters in the area, and make sure you’re not shooting in their direction.
• Wear blaze orange clothing. Blaze orange clothing is highly visible, and it can help other hunters see you in the woods. Make sure you wear blaze orange from head to toe, including a hat, vest, and jacket.
• Treat all firearms as if they are loaded. Never point a firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Always keep the safety on when you’re not shooting, and unload your firearm when you’re finished hunting.
• Follow all hunting regulations. Make sure you know the hunting regulations for the area you’re hunting in. This includes the bag limits, the seasons, and the types of firearms that are allowed.

By following these safety tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.

When is gun season in West Virginia?

Gun season in West Virginia varies depending on the type of game you are hunting. The following is a general overview of the hunting seasons for each game species:

• Deer: Deer season runs from October 1 to January 31.
• Bear: Bear season runs from September 1 to November 30.
• Elk: Elk season runs from September 1 to December 31.
• Turkey: Turkey season runs from April 15 to May 31.
• Quail: Quail season runs from September 1 to January 31.
• Pheasant: Pheasant season runs from October 1 to January 31.
• Rabbit: Rabbit season runs from October 1 to January 31.
• Squirrel: Squirrel season runs from October 1 to January 31.

For more specific information on hunting seasons in West Virginia, please consult the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources website.

What are the requirements for getting a hunting license in West Virginia?

To obtain a hunting license in West Virginia, you must be at least 16 years old and a resident of the state. You must also have completed a hunter education course. Hunting licenses can be purchased online or at any West Virginia Department of Natural Resources office.

What are the rules and regulations for hunting in West Virginia?

The West Virginia Department of Natural Resources has a comprehensive set of hunting regulations that all hunters must follow. These regulations cover everything from the types of weapons that can be used to the bag limits for each game species. For more information on hunting regulations in West Virginia, please consult the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources website.

Where can I hunt in West Virginia?

There are many public hunting areas in West Virginia, including state forests, wildlife management areas, and national forests. You can also hunt on private land with the permission of the landowner. For more information on hunting areas in West Virginia, please consult the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources website.

What are some tips for hunting in West Virginia?

• Scout the area before you hunt. This will help you identify the best places to hunt and the types of game that are present.
• Be aware of the weather conditions. Hunting can be dangerous in bad weather, so make sure you are prepared for the conditions.
• Use proper safety precautions. Always wear a hunter orange vest or hat when you are in the woods.
• Be respectful of other hunters and the environment. Leave no trace when you are hunting.

the hunting season for deer, bear, and other game animals in West Virginia varies depending on the species and the region of the state. It is important to be aware of the dates and regulations for each species before you head out into the woods. By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure a safe and successful hunting season for yourself and others.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

• The general deer hunting season in West Virginia runs from October 1 to January 31.
• The bear hunting season runs from September 15 to November 30.
• The small game hunting season runs from October 1 to March 31.
• It is important to be aware of the specific dates and regulations for each species and region of the state.
• By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure a safe and successful hunting season for yourself and others.