Hunting in West Virginia

Hunting in West Virginia

West Virginia is Appalachian hunting country. Much of the state is covered in steep ridges, hardwood forests, hollows, and remote mountain terrain that provides excellent habitat for whitetail deer, black bear, wild turkey, and a variety of small-game species.

Whitetail deer are the centerpiece of West Virginia hunting. The state's extensive forests and agricultural pockets support a strong deer herd, with opportunities ranging from traditional ridge-and-hollow hunts to hunts on private farmland and managed properties.

Black bear hunting is another major draw. West Virginia's rugged Appalachian terrain and large areas of forest provide ideal bear habitat, and hunters can pursue black bears during designated seasons and under specific regulations that vary by area.

Wild turkey is also a major part of the West Virginia hunting tradition. Spring turkey hunting is particularly popular, with mature gobblers found throughout the state's hardwood forests and mountain country.

Beyond deer, bear, and turkey, West Virginia offers hunting for a variety of small game and upland species. Hunters can pursue squirrel, rabbit, grouse, raccoon, and other species, while waterfowl hunters can find opportunities along the state's rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

Whether you're looking for a classic Appalachian whitetail hunt, a mountain black bear hunt, or a spring gobbler in the hardwoods, West Virginia offers the kind of rugged, timbered country that has defined Eastern hunting for generations.

West Virginia Tags & Licenses

West Virginia hunting licenses and permits are administered by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR). Hunters generally need a valid hunting license along with the appropriate stamps, permits, or species-specific authorization required for the hunt they plan to pursue.

Whitetail deer hunters must follow the regulations for the applicable season, hunting area, weapon, and license type. West Virginia offers multiple deer seasons and opportunities, so hunters should confirm the current requirements for the specific hunt they are planning.

Black bear hunting is regulated by season and county or hunting area, with specific requirements governing when, where, and how bears may be harvested. Hunters should review current regulations carefully before planning a bear hunt.

Turkey hunters must follow the applicable spring and fall turkey regulations, including season dates, licensing requirements, bag limits, and legal methods of take.

Small-game and migratory-bird hunters may need additional stamps, permits, or federal requirements depending on the species being pursued. Waterfowl hunters must also follow applicable federal migratory-bird regulations in addition to West Virginia requirements.

Nonresident hunters can purchase applicable West Virginia licenses and permits, although requirements and fees vary by species and hunt type. Hunters booking a guided hunt should confirm which licenses, permits, lodging, meals, and other trip components are included with the hunt.

West Virginia's hunting regulations, season dates, license requirements, and county-specific restrictions can change from year to year. Hunters should review the current WVDNR regulations before applying, booking travel, or heading into the field.

Species You Can Hunt in West Virginia

Whitetail Deer

Bear

Turkey