The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced that hunting and trapping seasons for several small game and fur-bearing species are set to open in West Virginia on Nov. 2.
“West Virginia has a hunting season for everyone and our trapping opportunities just add to the number of options folks have for enjoying outdoor adventures in the fall and winter,” said Brett McMillion, WVDNR director. “These seasons also provide an excellent chance for experienced hunters to share their knowledge, so we encourage everyone to invite a new hunter along for the adventure.”
Small game hunting is allowed during West Virginia’s deer seasons, except for the first three days of buck firearms season, when trapping fur-bearing animals is permitted. Hunters should note that during buck season, No. 4 shot or smaller and slugs can only be carried if the hunter is also legally hunting deer or bear. Legal firearms for small game hunting include combination rifle-shotgun (over-under, etc.). It is illegal to hunt with any centerfire rifle, rimfire larger than .22 caliber or air rifles other than .22 caliber. Additionally, shot larger than No. 4 or solid ball ammunition is prohibited in counties not open to buck firearms season.
Trapping Regulations
Trappers harvesting beaver, bobcat, fisher and otter must electronically check their catches within 30 days after the close of the respective season. A WVDNR-issued game check confirmation number shall be recorded in writing with the trapper’s name and address and shall be attached and remain attached to each pelt or whole animal until sold, tanned, processed into commercial fur or mounted.
Trappers must also obtain a Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora seal for each bobcat and otter pelt harvested in West Virginia. Federal law requires this seal on all bobcat and otter pelts shipped to international markets. Trappers may obtain a CITES seal from the Elkins Operations Center or their local WVDNR district office. Contact information is available at WVdnr.gov/contact.
River Otter Research Project
The WVDNR is also reminding trappers about its otter research project to examine annual survival, harvest rates, habitat use and movement rates. Radio-tagged otters are legal game during trapping season. Trappers who harvest a radio-tagged otter should contact Holly Morris at the District 4 office at 304-256-6947 to report the tag number and return the transmitter. More information about the otter research project, including photos of tags and transmitters, can be found on page 5 of the 2024–2025 West Virginia Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary.
Successful otter trappers who deliver a legally harvested and electronically registered skinned otter carcass to a WVDNR district office will be eligible to receive a $20 gift card. Call a local district office to arrange a pick-up if unable to deliver the carcass. Collected biological samples will assist biologists in making decisions regarding future trapping seasons.
Hunters 15 and older are required to have a valid West Virginia hunting license and form of identification while hunting. To purchase a hunting and trapping license, visit WVhunt.com.
For more information about small game season dates and limits, consult page 2 in the 2024–2025 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary at WVdnr.gov/hunting-regulation.
