CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources announced today that archery and crossbow seasons for white-tailed deer, black bear, and wild boar will open on Sept. 27.
WVDNR Director Brett McMillion is reminding hunters to purchase licenses early, follow new regulations, and to electronically check all harvests.
“The start of West Virginia’s archery and crossbow seasons is one of the most anticipated times of the year and provides an incredible opportunity to introduce new hunters to the sport, reconnect with family traditions, and enjoy the outdoors,” McMillion said.
Archery and Crossbow Hunting
In West Virginia, archery and crossbow hunting are cherished parts of the state’s hunting tradition, offering sportsmen and women a longer season and a quieter, more challenging way to pursue game. These methods are especially popular among hunters targeting white-tailed deer and black bears, requiring them to hone their skills in patience, stealth, and accuracy.
Archery season typically begins earlier than firearm seasons, allowing hunters to enjoy the fall woods in relative solitude. The growing popularity of crossbows has also expanded opportunities, making hunting more accessible to young people, older adults, and those with physical limitations.
Together, archery and crossbow hunting not only provide recreation but also play a vital role in managing West Virginia’s abundant wildlife populations while strengthening the state’s rich outdoor heritage.
The first section of the state’s 2025 black bear firearms season will be open in select counties from September 20 to 26. Additional bear firearms season segments are scheduled for Oct. 4-10, Oct. 23-26, Nov. 24-Dec. 7, and Dec. 8-31, 2025.
New Hunting Regulations
To help hunters prepare, the division is reminding the public of several important matters pertaining to these seasons:
- Electronic Checking: All big game must be field tagged and electronically checked at WVHunt.com. Completing the check promptly after harvest ensures accurate reporting and helps the WVDNR monitor wildlife populations.
- Deer Stamps: Hunters who want a chance to take up to two additional deer during the archery season must purchase their Class RB or RRB stamps before the season begins.
- Deer Carcass and Baiting Restrictions: Carcass transportation restrictions are now in effect in Grant County, while baiting and feeding restrictions apply in Pendleton County.
- Wounded Game Recovery: An unmanned aerial vehicle can be used to track and locate mortally wounded deer, bear, and wild boar. Only one leashed dog is permitted for this purpose.
- Hemorrhagic Disease in Deer: Hunters should also be aware of ongoing reports of hemorrhagic disease (HD) in some deer populations across the state. HD is a naturally occurring virus that can affect white-tailed deer, and the WVDNR is closely monitoring the situation. For more information, including guidance on reporting suspected cases, visit WVDNR.gov/hemorrhagic-disease.
- Deer Bowhunter Survey: Hunters who participated in last year’s deer archery season are invited to participate in the WVDNR’s annual bowhunter survey, which provides valuable data that supports wildlife management and helps improve future hunting opportunities. Invitations will be emailed beginning the week of Sept. 22.
- Hunting Outlook and Mast Survey: Due to an increase in hard mast production, harvests during the archery and crossbow seasons are expected to be lower in 2025. To learn more, download the report at WVdnr.gov/mast-survey.
To learn more about season dates, bag limits, and county-specific regulations, check the West Virginia Hunting Regulations Summary, available to download at WVDNR.gov/hunting-regulations.
All hunters 15 years of age and older are required to have a valid West Virginia hunting license, unless they are hunting under resident landowner privileges. Hunters also must carry a valid form of identification. To purchase a hunting license and stamps, visit WVHunt.com.
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