Hunting in West Virginia offers rewarding experiences and numerous benefits for outdoor enthusiasts and new residents relocating from big U.S. cities due to the remote-work revolution. With abundant forests, diverse wildlife, and well-managed public hunting lands, West Virginia provides hunters with opportunities to pursue deer, turkey, bear, and small game in breathtaking Appalachian settings. Hunting in the Mountain State promotes sustainable wildlife management, supports local traditions, and allows families to bond while spending time in nature. For remote workers seeking a balanced lifestyle and a deeper connection to the outdoors, hunting in West Virginia delivers fresh air, self-sufficiency, and a chance to enjoy the peaceful wilderness that makes living in this scenic state so rewarding. Be sure to visit our Hunting Travel Guide for more information about hunting and hunting areas in West Virginia.
ELKINS, W.Va. — Officials at the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced today that hunters preparing for fall seasons may now consult the 2025 West Virginia Hunting Outlook and Mast Survey.The report and survey detail the abundance of wild fruits and nuts produced by 18 species of trees and shrubs that support wildlife in … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Officials at the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources have announced that future meetings of the state’s natural resources commission will begin at 6 p.m. to make it easier for the public to participate.The decision follows the success of the July 24 commission meeting, which was the first to be held in … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia officials are reminding hunters with disabilities that special access roads in national forests and state-owned wildlife management areas are open specifically to them.Brett McMillion, director of the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources, said that designating hunting areas for disabled hunters is a program that encourages everyone to hunt.“Hunting is a … Read more
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 … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia has set new season dates and new regulations for the 2025-2026 migratory game bird hunting seasons, which open Sept. 1, in accordance with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s annual guidelines.Brett McMillion, director of the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources, said the adjustments provide hunters several advantages when it comes … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — An early bear firearms season will open August 30, 2025, in Logan, McDowell, Mingo, and Wyoming counties in south-western West Virginia, according to the director of the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources.Early bear firearms season benefits busy huntersDivision Director Brett McMillion is reminding hunters that the early bear firearms season is especially … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The W.Va. Division of Natural Resources is now accepting applications for its 2025 deer hunt lotteries. Hunters interested in harvesting antlerless deer in limited permit areas are encouraged to apply online before the September 5 midnight deadline.These deer lottery hunts provide an excellent opportunity for both West Virginia residents and nonresidents to … Read more
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The final segment of West Virginia’s 2024-2025 residents-only firearms and archery-and-crossbow seasons for wild boar will be open in Boone, Logan, Raleigh, and Wyoming counties Feb. 7–9.Brett McMillion, director of the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources, said a hunt for the rare species, which roams and isolated mountain region in southwestern … Read more
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Hunters in West Virginia harvested 17 percent more fall turkeys in 2024 than in 2023, according to officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources.Division director Brett McMillion said the increase is evidence of the success of the state’s long-range management plan.“West Virginia is truly a top destination for turkey hunting, and … Read more
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Hunting and trapping seasons for several small game and fur-bearing species in West Virginia will open on November 2, 2024.Brett McMillion, director of the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources, says the season represents the state’s diverse outdoor adventure.“West Virginia has a hunting season for everyone, and our trapping opportunities just add … Read more
