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Will ReedyWill Reedy

Will Reedy is a West Virginia writer and contributor to West Virginia Explorer Magazine whose work focuses on hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. Through essays and feature writing, he explores the landscapes, communities, and traditions that define West Virginia, bringing a thoughtful perspective to stories about heritage, travel, and everyday Appalachian life.
A hunter walks through a forest during West Virginia's fall hunting season. The state has released updated hunting and trapping regulations for the 2026-27 seasons, including changes affecting deer, bear and turkey hunters. (Photo courtesy W.Va. Dept. of Commerce)
Hunting

New West Virginia hunting rules could affect thousands of hunters this fall

by Will Reedy

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Hunters planning to head into West Virginia’s woods this fall should review the state’s newly released hunting regulations, as several changes could affect where, when, and how they hunt during the 2026-27 seasons. The W.Va. Division of Natural Resources has released its annual Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary, outlining season dates, licensing … Read more

The Williams River flows through the Monongahela National Forest in Pocahontas and Webster counties. Road repairs planned for nearby Forest Road 86 could affect access to campgrounds, trailheads, and recreation areas in the Williams River and Cranberry regions this summer.
National Forests

Road closures to affect access to Cranberry and Williams River recreation areas

by Will Reedy

RICHWOOD, W.Va. — Visitors planning trips to the Cranberry and Williams River regions of the Monongahela National Forest this summer should prepare for detours and temporary road closures as the U.S. Forest Service begins repairs to flood-damaged forest roads serving some of the area’s most popular recreation destinations. Construction is expected to begin in late … Read more

A white-tailed doe feeds twin fawns near Dolly Sods Wilderness during peak fawn season in West Virginia, when thousands of baby deer are born across the state's forests and mountain landscapes.
Wildlife / Conservancy

Why baby deer are appearing across West Virginia right now

by Will Reedy

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Across West Virginia’s mountains, valleys, farm fields, and suburban neighborhoods, a new generation of baby deer is quietly entering the world. June is the peak month for fawning season in the Mountain State, and residents are increasingly encountering spotted fawns curled motionless in tall grass, woodland edges, hayfields, and even backyards. While … Read more

West Virginia waterfowl hunt
Wildlife Refuges, Management Areas

West Virginia waterfowl hunt applications open at McClintic, home of Mothman legend

by Will Reedy

POINT PLEASANT, W.Va. — The W.Va. Division of Natural Resources is accepting applications for a controlled waterfowl hunt scheduled for Oct. 3-11 at McClintic Wildlife Management Area near Point Pleasant in Mason County. Waterfowl hunters who wish to participate must submit their application by 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 14 at WVHunt.com, according to Brett McMillion, director of … Read more