The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has announced that new hunting regulations for the 2025-2026 seasons went into effect July 1 with the release of the annual Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary.
“These changes reflect our ongoing commitment to responsible wildlife management while supporting West Virginia’s strong hunting traditions,” said Brett McMillion, WVDNR director. “With world-class opportunities across the state, we encourage all hunters to take time to review the new regulations before heading afield this fall.”
The regulations summary is available to download at WVdnr.gov/hunting-regulations. Hunters who wish to obtain a printed copy should contact their local hunting and fishing license agent or WVDNR district office. Copies will also be available at the WVDNR’s operations center in Elkins and headquarters at the state Capitol in Charleston.
In addition to updates to big and small game season dates and open counties, major changes outlined in the summary include:
- Implementation of deer carcass transportation regulations in Grant County and baiting and feeding restrictions in Pendleton County;
- Removal of minimum youth age restrictions for youth seasons;
- Removal of maximum caliber restriction for hunting coyotes at night;
- Elimination of the Small Arms Hunting Stamp (Class A1) for handgun hunting; and
- Use of UAVs and one leashed dog now permitted to track and locate mortally wounded deer, bear, wild turkey and wild boar.
In addition to reviewing the regulations, hunters are reminded to purchase their 2025 West Virginia hunting license and stamps before the seasons start this fall. To purchase a license and stamps, visit WVhunt.com.
