Officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources have announced waterfowl regulations for the 2021-’22 season that include two changes over previous seasons.

“First, the definition of ‘bait’ now includes any non-edible facsimile of an edible enticement, like plastic ear corn,” says state waterfowl biologist Mike Peters.

“Second, a permit is no longer required to hunt at the Green Bottom Wildlife Management Area, although hunting hour restrictions remain in place for the first three days of the October segment.”

“As always, please review the West Virginia Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations Summary for any changes.”

All information on West Virginia’s migratory game bird seasons can be found in the 2021-2022 West Virginia Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations available online at WVDNR.gov.

The seasons are set within the guidelines established annually by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Federal regulations require all licensed migratory bird hunters, including lifetime and senior citizens, to register with the Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program and carry proof of registration while hunting.

HIP cards are free and available at all hunting license agents and online at WVHunt.com.

Additionally, all waterfowl hunters who are at least 16 years old must possess a federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, or “Duck Stamp,” which is signed by the hunter across the stamp’s face.

Duck Stamps can be purchased from your local U.S. post office, by calling 1-800-782-6724, or going to USPS.com/shop. Hunters should report harvested banded birds online at reportband.gov.