CHARLESTON, W.Va. — With the first slate of youth hunting seasons set to open in September, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources reminded hunters that the minimum age restriction for youth seasons has been removed.
Brett McMillion, director of the division, says that natural resources officials hope to encourage families to pass on the tradition.
“Hunting in West Virginia is a time-honored tradition that has been passed down for generations, and we want to encourage parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles to share their love for hunting and the outdoors with their family this fall,” McMillion said.
Exposure to woodcraft during hunting season and at any time of year is a good way to help ensure the hunting and trapping traditions continue.
“West Virginia has several seasons dedicated to taking a young person hunting, but don’t limit their exposure to these dates only. The more you take your kids into the woods and expose them to hunting, the more they’ll want to carry on these traditions.”
West Virginia’s youth squirrel season will be open Sept. 6-7, and the first split of the state’s youth black bear season will be Sept. 13-14. A second youth black bear season will run concurrently with a youth season for white-tailed deer on Oct. 18-19. Youth waterfowl season dates are scheduled for Sept. 20 and Nov. 1. The youth spring turkey season will be April 18-19, 2026.
Youth Season Minimum Age Restriction Removed
Earlier in 2025, the Natural Resources Commission removed the minimum age restriction for youth seasons. Youth hunters under the age of 15 must still be accompanied by a licensed adult who is 18 years of age or older and must remain close enough to provide guidance and assistance.
However, legislators also approved a change to make it clear that an adult assisting a youth hunter during any special youth season may handle the hunter’s firearm to provide safe handling advice and help. When assisting a youth hunter during a special youth season, the accompanying adult is still prohibited from carrying a firearm for the purpose of taking wildlife.
Youth hunters ages 15-17 must comply with all applicable state and federal licensing requirements, and all youth hunters must check big game harvests using their own WVDNR account. Hunting licenses can be purchased, and game checks can be completed online at WVHunt.com.
The hunting tradition in West Virginia
Hunting has long been a deeply rooted tradition in West Virginia, tied closely to both the state’s history and its rugged Appalachian landscape. Early settlers depended on hunting not only for food but also for survival in the isolated mountain regions.
Deer, turkey, bear, and small game provided meat, while furs and hides were valuable resources for clothing and trade. Over time, hunting became not only a practical necessity but also a cultural practice passed down through generations, reinforcing bonds between families and communities.
Today, hunting remains a vital part of West Virginia’s identity, blending heritage with recreation. Annual hunting seasons attract thousands of residents and visitors, many of whom grew up learning the skills of tracking, patience, and marksmanship from parents or grandparents.
The state’s abundant forests and diverse wildlife make it an ideal destination for sportsmen, while carefully managed hunting seasons help ensure the sustainability of animal populations. For many, the tradition is about more than harvesting game: it is also about connecting with nature and honoring a way of life that stretches back centuries.
Hunting also plays a significant role in West Virginia’s economy and conservation efforts. Licensing fees and taxes on equipment contribute to wildlife management programs, habitat restoration, and conservation initiatives.
By regulating seasons and limits, the state ensures that species such as white-tailed deer and black bear thrive in balance with their ecosystems. This stewardship reflects a broader understanding that hunting, when responsibly managed, supports both cultural heritage and environmental health.
Beyond its practical and ecological benefits, hunting in West Virginia is an important social tradition. Many communities organize hunting camps and gatherings that foster camaraderie, storytelling, and mentorship.
The first day of deer season is often treated as a holiday, with schools even closing in some areas. For countless families, hunting is not simply a sport but a way to strengthen relationships, pass down traditions, and celebrate the enduring connection between people and the land.
Headquartered in Charleston, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources manages the state’s fish, wildlife, and public lands, while promoting outdoor recreation and conserving natural resources for future generations
For complete details about youth hunting in West Virginia, see pages 29, 38, and 44 of the Hunting Regulations Summary, available to download at WVDNR.gov/hunting-regulations.
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