West Virginia Archery season offers hunters plenty of big game hunting seasons. Plan your trip through the majestic Appalachian Mountains and take in the astounding scenery while you hunt deer, turkey, bear, and small game. The “Mountain State” offers an updated licensing system for hunters.
West Virginia (WV) Archery Season, 2022-2023
Despite being a smaller state than others, West Virginia offers hunters bountiful opportunities for game hunting. The state has more than 350,000 hunters providing $270 million in revenues through yearly license purchases. The scenic views of West Virginia’s landscapes are breathtaking and provide excellent hunting grounds.
When does Archery Season Start in WV?
West Virginia Wild Boar Seasons
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Archery September 25-December 5 / February 4-6
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General Season October 23-30 / February 4-6
West Virginia Deer Seasons
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Buck Firearms November 22-December 5
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Archery and Crossbow September 25-December 31
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Antlerless October 21-24 / November 22-December 5 / December 9-12 & 28-31
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Youth Season October 16-17 / December 26-27
*Season dates vary by region.
West Virginia Turkey Seasons
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Fall General Season October 9-17 / October 25-31 / October 25-November 14
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Spring General SeasonApril 18-May 22
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Spring Youth Season April 16-17
*Season dates vary by region.
West Virginia Black Bear Seasons
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Archery September 25-December 31
*Season dates vary by region.
West Virginia Small Game Seasons
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Squirrel September 11-February 28
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Ruffed Grouse October 16-February 28
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Bobwhite Quail November 6-January 1
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Rabbit and Hare November 6-February 28
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Pheasant November 6-January 1*
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Raccoon October 16-February 28
There are restrictions for seasonal and year-round hunting. Special seasons, bag limits, and hunting regulations vary based on season and animal.
What are the Legal Hunting Hours in West Virginia?
Authorized hunting hours start 30-minutes before sunrise to 30-minutes after sunset.
Hunting Licenses and Permits in WV
Visit the West Virginia Fish, Wildlife & Parks website for more details on purchasing your hunting licenses and permits.
West Virginia Residents
A resident is a person who has lived in the state permanently for 30 days. All residents aged 15 or older must have a Base Hunting License and Conservation License.
Non-Residents
Non-residents must have a non-resident base or combination hunting license and Conservation Enforcement Stamp.
Youth Hunting Licenses
West Virginia residents under 15 don’t need a hunting license. They must hunt accompanied by a licensed adult. Residents aged 15 to 17 can buy a Junior Sportsman Hunting License. Non-residents aged 8 to 17 can purchase a Junior Sportsman Hunting License.
Senior Hunting Licenses
West Virginia residents aged 62 or older can buy a reduced-fee license.
Disability Licenses
West Virginia residents aged 65 before January 1, 2012, don’t need a hunting license, but they must have a West Virginia ID card or driver’s license. West Virginia residents turning 65 on or after Jan. 1, 2012, are eligible for a lifetime Senior Hunting License.
Veteran and Military Licenses
Active-duty military personnel stationed in West Virginia can buy a resident hunting license. Resident veterans receiving total permanent service-connected disability benefits or who qualify under the West Virginia Code 17A-10-8 do not need a hunting license.
Migratory Waterfowl Requirements
Hunters aged 16 or older must buy a West Virginia Migratory Bird Permit and Federal Duck Stamp when hunting migratory waterfowl. The permit is proof of participation in the Harvest Information Program (HIP).
License Expiration
West Virginia hunting licenses are valid for a year. West Virginia residents are eligible for a lifetime hunting license.
Check out our guide 30+ Hunting Rules to Keep You Safe while bowhunting in the wild.
